Here Are The Top 10 Most In-Demand Jobs In British Columbia

On This Page You Will Find:

• A detailed list of the 10 most in-demand jobs in British Columbia for 2025
• Job responsibilities, qualifications, and median salaries
• The latest labour market outlook for BC
• Career opportunities for skilled immigrants and local jobseekers
• Answers to frequently asked questions

British Columbia continues to experience rapid labour market growth, with nearly 1 million job openings projected by 2033. In 2025, the province remains a top destination for newcomers seeking opportunity, especially in healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and business services. The need for skilled workers is driven by population aging, economic expansion, and innovation across industries.

Below are the most in-demand occupations in British Columbia this year.

1. Registered Nurses (NOC 31301)

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess patients to identify appropriate nursing interventions.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary health teams to plan and implement patient care.
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed.
• Monitor and document patients’ symptoms and changes in condition.
• Provide health education to patients and their families.

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of a nursing program from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).
• Strong communication and critical-thinking skills.

Median Salary: Approximately $85,000 per year.

Job Outlook: High demand due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs.

2. Sales and Marketing Managers (NOC 10022)

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, direct, and evaluate the activities of sales and marketing departments.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote products and services.
• Oversee market research and analyze consumer trends.
• Manage budgets and monitor performance metrics.
• Lead and mentor sales and marketing teams.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration, or a related field.
• Several years of experience in sales, marketing, or public relations.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills.

Median Salary: Approximately $105,000 per year.

Job Outlook: Favorable, with businesses seeking to expand market share and brand presence.

3. Accountants (NOC 11100)

Key Responsibilities:

• Examine and analyze accounting records and financial statements.
• Develop and maintain cost-finding and internal control procedures.
• Prepare income tax returns and provide tax planning advice.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
• Advise clients on financial management and efficiency.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field.
• Professional designation such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant).
• Attention to detail and strong analytical skills.

Median Salary: Approximately $75,000 per year.

Job Outlook: Steady demand as businesses require financial expertise for compliance and strategic planning.

4. Software Developers (NOC 21232)

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, write, test, and maintain software applications.
• Analyze user requirements and develop appropriate software solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement new features.
• Troubleshoot and resolve software defects and issues.
• Stay updated with emerging technologies and industry trends.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, C++, or Python.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Median Salary: Approximately $92,000 per year.

Job Outlook: Excellent, driven by the growing tech industry and digital transformation initiatives.

5. Family Physicians (NOC 31102)

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions.
• Provide continuous care to patients and manage their overall health.
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests.
• Prescribe medications and treatments.
• Offer preventive care and health education.

Required Qualifications:

• Medical degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of a family medicine residency program.
• Licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia.

Median Salary: Approximately $180,000 per year.

Job Outlook: High demand, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

6. Administrative Assistants (NOC 13110)

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage office operations and support managerial staff.
• Schedule appointments and maintain calendars.
• Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, and presentations.
• Maintain filing systems, both electronic and physical.
• Handle incoming calls and correspondence.

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of a one- or two-year college program for administrative assistants.
• Proficiency in office software applications.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Median Salary: Approximately $50,000 per year.

Job Outlook: Consistent demand across various industries to support business operations.

7. Welders (NOC 72106)

Key Responsibilities:

• Read blueprints and interpret welding symbols and specifications
• Operate welding equipment and machinery safely and efficiently
• Assemble and fabricate metal structures and components
• Inspect completed welds for quality assurance
• Collaborate with engineers and fabricators on technical requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of secondary school and a welding apprenticeship or college program
• Red Seal certification preferred
• Good hand-eye coordination and physical stamina

Median Salary: Approx. $63,000 per year

Job Outlook: High demand due to industrial growth and retirements in the trades sector.

8. Carpenters (NOC 72310)

Key Responsibilities:

• Construct, install, and repair structures made from wood and other materials
• Read blueprints, drawings, and building codes
• Measure, cut, and assemble framing, flooring, roofing, and other components
• Operate power tools and machinery
• Inspect finished structures for quality and safety

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of a carpentry apprenticeship or trade school
• Red Seal endorsement is an asset
• Physical fitness and attention to detail

Median Salary: Approx. $59,000 per year

Job Outlook: Strong demand driven by residential and commercial construction projects.

9. Cooks (NOC 63200)

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook complete meals or individual dishes
• Supervise kitchen staff and helpers
• Maintain cleanliness and food safety standards
• Plan menus, estimate food requirements, and monitor inventory
• Adapt recipes for dietary needs and preferences

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of a culinary arts program or apprenticeship
• Food Safe Level 1 certification
• Creativity and time-management skills

Median Salary: Approx. $36,000 per year

Job Outlook: High demand due to staffing shortages in restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities.

10. Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers (NOC 21321)

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze production and operational processes to improve efficiency
• Develop manufacturing workflows and quality control standards
• Implement automation tools and lean manufacturing practices
• Work with teams to reduce waste and optimize resources
• Prepare reports and proposals for management

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial or mechanical engineering
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation is an asset
• Analytical and technical problem-solving skills

Median Salary: Approx. $93,000 per year

Job Outlook: Growing demand in sectors like clean energy, tech manufacturing, and infrastructure.

FAQ: Top Jobs in British Columbia 2025