Job Termination

Do your homework before hitting the road

You're enticed by stories about endless job opportunities in Alberta and the chance to earn a better-than-average salary. But before handing in your resignation and packing up your belongings, take the time to find out just how easy or difficult it will be to find work in your field.

LINDA WHITE
[ 2008-02-13 ]

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"People who are underemployed in the Toronto area are very interested in opportunities in Alberta ... but I wouldn't suggest people move lock, stock and barrel right away," says Harold Wilson, executive director of the Economic Development Alliance of Southeast Alberta.

Because labour market conditions in Alberta are constantly changing based on supply and demand and may differ from one area of the province to another, it's important to do your homework.

SUPPLY AND DEMAND


"For example, employment demand for construction workers often increases dramatically after the announcement of a major construction project and decreases when the project is completed," Alberta Learning Information Services (ALIS) says on its website.

"How easy or difficult it will be for you to find work will also be affected by how many other qualified applicants there are in Alberta. Therefore, it is important to gather current, accurate information about the labour market in your occupation so you can make informed decisions." (See sidebar for helpful websites.)


Online job banks will also give you insight into which jobs are in demand and in what part of the province. In turn, you can research communities that interest you. The cost and availability of housing in Alberta has made headlines, but some communities are much more affordable than others. Knowing what to expect will help you make an informed decision about relocating. "Medicine Hat, for example, is still affordable," Wilson says.

If you're working in a regulated occupation -- such as forester, lawyer, nurse or teacher -- or in a regulated trade like electrician, heavy-equipment technician, plumber or welder, you need to find out about legal requirements or restrictions with regard to licensing, certification or registration, ALIS advises.

REGISTERED


In some regulated occupations, you must be registered with the appropriate professional regulatory organization or, in a trade, with Apprenticeship and Industry Training. In other regulated occupations, you must be registered if you perform restricted activities or use a protected title, ALIS says.

REGULATED


If you're a skilled tradesperson, remember that each province and territory in Canada determines which occupations are regulated in its jurisdiction. That means you may be required to meet certification and registration requirements to work in your occupation in Alberta -- even though you're not required to be licensed, registered or certified to work in your home province or territory.

Finally, before you leave Ontario, consider arranging temporary accommodations in Alberta while you are looking for work or waiting to begin an arranged job. As an added bonus, that will give you a chance to get a feel for the area. "Some people drive down the Trans-Canada Highway and simply stop in the first place they hit," Wilson says.

USEFUL WEBSITES


Thinking about moving to Alberta? Check out the following websites for helpful information and tips:

www.services.gov.ab.ca
You'll find information on communities, finding a job, renting or buying a home and much more.

www.alis.gov.ab.ca
In addition to labour market bulletins about specific cities and regions, Alberta Learning Information Services offers links to job banks in a wide variety of industries and occupations.

www.tradesecrets.gov.ab.ca
Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training provides a comprehensive list of compulsory and optional certification trades. Information is also available by calling 1-800-661-3753.



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