Skip to the main content
This website uses cookies to give you a better online experience. By using this website or closing this message, you are agreeing to our cookie policy. More information
Alberta Supports Contact Centre

Toll Free 1-877-644-9992

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts conduct research to identify emerging issues, develop policy and advocacy initiatives, and determine policy positions and solutions.

Also Known As

Policy Advisor, Policy Consultant, Program Officer, Research Analyst, Research Officer

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 4165: Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • 4161.4: Science Policy and Program Officers
  • 4162: Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts
  • 4164.1: Social Policy Researchers
  • 4164.3: Housing Policy Analysts
  • 4166: Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • 4167.4: Recreation, Sports and Fitness Policy Analysts

2006 NOC-S

  • E039: Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • E031: Natural and Applied Science Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • E032: Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts
  • E034: Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • E035: Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
  • E036: Recreation, Sports and Fitness Program Supervisors and Consultants

2011 NOC

  • 4165: Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4161: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4162: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
  • 4164: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4166: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4167: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC

  • 4165: Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4161: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4162: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
  • 4164: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4166: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 4167: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC

  • 41400: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 41401: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
  • 41403: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 41405: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 41406: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2023 OaSIS

  • 41400.04: Science policy and program officers
  • 41401.00: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
  • 41403.01: Social policy researchers
  • 41403.03: Housing policy analysts
  • 41405.00: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • 41406.02: Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts
Duties
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Policy analysts review and analyze political, economic, and social events. They raise public awareness of issues and shape government or organizational policy. Policy analysts may specialize in areas such as:

  • Agriculture
  • Education
  • Energy
  • Environment
  • Health
  • Industrial organization
  • International relations
  • International trade
  • Labour
  • National defence
  • Public finance
  • Urban and regional development

Duties vary depending on the employer and policy area. In general, policy analysts:

  • Maintain, update, and manage databases
  • Help to prepare strategic and operational plans
  • Gather and analyze statistical information and write reports
  • Review, analyze, and advise on federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and policies
  • Distribute information on programs and policies
  • Seek input from stakeholders and committees to help identify, scope, and develop policy and advocacy initiatives
  • Research and write policies for organizations
  • Monitor trends and emerging issues

In government settings, policy analysts:

  • Do cost-benefit analyses to identify the best policy positions or initiatives
  • Recommend how to spend tax dollars to maximize taxpayer benefits
  • Study policies and programs to assess the need for change and, if required, explore potential alternatives
  • Monitor social and political trends and policies, and their impact on the economy or population
  • Provide impartial and objective advice
  • Implement decisions made by the elected government
Working Conditions
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Strength Required Strength requirements vary

Policy analysts typically work regular business hours in an office setting. They may need to work evenings or weekends to meet deadlines, attend meetings, and finish reports. Policy analysts sometimes travel to attend conferences and meetings.

Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Science Policy and Program Officers

2006 NOC: 4161.4

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in co-ordinating information to conduct research and to develop policies and programs in the natural and applied science fields

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting to advise governments on policies related to scientific field

METHODICAL

Interest in administering programs

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts

2006 NOC: 4162

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in conducting research and developing models to analyze, explain and forecast economic behaviour and patterns; in devising methods to collect and analyze data; and in studying the nature of money, credit and credit instruments, and the operations of banks and other financial institutions in order to develop monetary policies and forecasts of financial activity

METHODICAL

Interest in co-ordinating information to monitor economic data and regional and local economic trend; to forecast the production and consumption of renewable resources and supply, consumption and depletion of non-renewable resources; to forecast production and consumption of specific products and services based on records of past production and consumption and general economic and industry-specific conditions; and to prepare forecasts of income and expenditure, interest rates and exchange rates

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting to advise government agencies on policies to increase economic activities; in conducting research on market conditions in local, regional and national areas to set sales and pricing levels for goods and services, and to assess market potential and future trends

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Social Policy Researchers

2006 NOC: 4164.1

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in co-ordinating information to develop programs, legislation and proposals based on analyses, and to evaluate pilot projects

DIRECTIVE

Interest in implementing and administering social programs and projects

SOCIAL

Interest in consulting with government officials to advise on social policy issues

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Housing Policy Analysts

2006 NOC: 4164.3

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in co-ordinating information to assess economic, demographic and social trends for the development of housing policies

DIRECTIVE

Interest in administering and implementing housing programs

SOCIAL

Interest in consulting to report on the implications of economic, demographic and social developments for housing policies

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers

2006 NOC: 4165

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in producing newsletters, magazines and other documents to provide information to members of associations and organizations, and to the public; and in designing health projects and programs

METHODICAL

Interest in co-ordinating information to maintain, update and manage health care information databases, to assess compliance to health standards and identify remedial action if necessary, and to conduct evaluations and assessments of health projects and programs

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting with clients in private organizations, and government departments and agencies; in providing advice to senior managers and officials on issues such as health promotion, regulations, standards and financing; and in implementing health projects and programs

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers

2006 NOC: 4166

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in conducting research, developing the structure, content and objectives of new programs, and creating teaching materials and other resources for program delivery

METHODICAL

Interest in co-ordinating information to conduct statistical analyses; and in administering educational policies and programs; may administer specialized testing and assessment programs

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting to provide ongoing professional development and training to teachers; may supervise the work of other policy researchers, consultants and program officers

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Recreation, Sports and Fitness Policy Analysts

2006 NOC: 4167.4

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
SOCIAL

Interest in consulting with governments and organizations involved in recreation, sports and fitness to conduct research and write policies

DIRECTIVE

Interest in co-ordinating information to develop policies

INNOVATIVE

Interest in conducting background research and analyses to develop recreational, sports and fitness policies

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Traits & Skills
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Policy analysts need:

  • Logical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • The ability to analyze complex problems
  • The ability to express complex ideas in plain language, both in person and on paper
  • Skills in analyzing data, statistics, and economic information
  • Interpersonal skills

They should have an interest in current events and enjoy collaborating with others.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4161

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 47 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Health benefits: Health care plan
Health benefits: Dental plan
Health benefits: Vision care benefits
Green Job: Involves duties and responsibilities that lead to positive environmental outcomes
Team player
Excellent oral communication
Accurate
Excellent written communication
Flexibility
Tasks: Report and document investigations and conclusions/recommendations

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2016 NOC: 4162

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 10 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Health benefits: Health care plan
Health benefits: Dental plan
Health benefits: Disability benefits
Organized
Team player
Initiative
Tasks: Conduct research
Other benefits: Paid time off (volunteering or personal days)
Health benefits: Vision care benefits
Long term benefits: Maternity and parental benefits

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4164

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 92 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Attention to detail
Dependability
Organized
Excellent oral communication
Accurate
Excellent written communication
Reliability
Values and ethics
Client focus
Tasks: Perform administrative tasks

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4165

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 27 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Team player
Tasks: Produce reports
Health benefits: Health care plan
Excellent written communication
Control Systems: Addiction or substance abuse
Security and Safety: Criminal record check
Tasks: Conduct evaluations and assessments of health projects and programs
Tasks: Develop people resources and networks for health information and other wellness issues
Tasks: Interpret trends and developments on health issues
Tasks: Develop policies, standards and guidelines

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4166

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 33 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Excellent oral communication
Excellent written communication
Tasks: Produce reports
Tasks: Administer education policies and programs
Team player
Tasks: Perform administrative tasks
Tasks: Develop teaching materials and other resources for program delivery
Effective interpersonal skills
Tasks: Evaluate curriculum programs and recommend improvements
Interpersonal awareness

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4167

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 24 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Dec 13, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Tasks: Co-ordinate special events
Tasks: Perform administrative tasks
Tasks: Supervise professional staff, program leaders and instructors and volunteer staff
Tasks: Provide expert advice and consulting services in the design, development and administration of sports, fitness and recreation programs and activities
Tasks: Write proposals and press statements for corporations, industry and the fitness community
Tasks: Prepare research papers, educational texts or articles
Tasks: Conduct research and develop government policies related to recreation, sports, fitness and athletic safety and standards
Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years
Personal Suitability: Excellent oral communication
Personal Suitability: Team player
Educational Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Minimum Education 4 years post-secondary

Some entry-level policy analyst positions require only a bachelor’s degree. However, a master’s or doctoral degree is often required for professional advancement. A wide range of university majors can prepare someone for a career as a policy analyst. Common fields of study include policy studies, political science, sociology, economics, law, public policy, and international relations. A security background check may be needed to work in this occupation.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Concordia University of Edmonton
University of Victoria

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Certification Not Regulated

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Policy analysts may work for:

  • Government departments and agencies
  • Research institutions, such as universities
  • Policy think tanks
  • Consulting firms
  • Regional economic development partnerships
  • Political parties

Experienced policy analysts may advance to positions as senior managers or directors.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4161

75.5% of people in this occupational group work in:

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2016 NOC: 4162

76.6% of people in this occupational group work in:

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4164

85.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4165

80.2% of people in this occupational group work in:

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4166

78.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4167

84.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2021 NOC: 41400
Medium
Demand
5,900
Employed
Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2021 NOC: 41401
Medium
Demand
< 1500
Employed
Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2021 NOC: 41403
Medium
Demand
7,100
Employed
Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2021 NOC: 41405
Medium
Demand
3,300
Employed
Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2021 NOC: 41406
Medium
Demand
< 1500
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4161
2.5%
Annual Growth
(Above Average)
109
New Positions
Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2016 NOC: 4162
2.4%
Annual Growth
(Average)
70
New Positions
Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4164
2.2%
Annual Growth
(Below Average)
111
New Positions
Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4165
2.1%
Annual Growth
(Below Average)
120
New Positions
Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4166
3.0%
Annual Growth
(Above Average)
119
New Positions
Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4167
2.4%
Annual Growth
(Average)
30
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Mar 31, 2020

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4161
Average Wage
$50.28
Per Hour
Average Salary
$95,293.00
Per Year
Average Hours
36.7
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4161 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $25.00 $65.00 $40.41 $38.67
Overall $33.16 $74.78 $50.28 $49.22
Top $34.31 $100.84 $62.90 $58.36

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Oil & Gas Extraction
Construction
Manufacturing
Transportation and Warehousing
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Educational Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
28%
28%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
9%
9%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
2%
2%
Vacancy Rate
2%

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2016 NOC: 4162
Average Wage
$46.81
Per Hour
Average Salary
$92,580.00
Per Year
Average Hours
38.1
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4162 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

B: Good Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $21.63 $67.50 $38.63 $36.00
Overall $28.85 $71.43 $46.81 $43.27
Top $36.06 $73.05 $56.41 $59.55

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
38%
38%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
28%
28%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
9%
9%
Vacancy Rate
3%

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4164
Average Wage
$41.66
Per Hour
Average Salary
$81,494.00
Per Year
Average Hours
37.2
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4164 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $23.08 $43.90 $34.75 $36.05
Overall $26.10 $54.40 $41.66 $41.29
Top $30.77 $62.20 $44.15 $47.04

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Information, Culture, Recreation
Educational Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
31%
31%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
5%
5%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
0%
0%
Vacancy Rate
N/A

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4165
Average Wage
$43.89
Per Hour
Average Salary
$82,268.00
Per Year
Average Hours
36.2
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4165 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $27.41 $45.45 $34.75 $32.63
Overall $31.55 $54.88 $43.89 $45.19
Top $34.71 $72.71 $51.17 $50.69

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Educational Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
25%
25%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
7%
7%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
1%
1%
Vacancy Rate
N/A

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4166
Average Wage
$42.03
Per Hour
Average Salary
$77,573.00
Per Year
Average Hours
35.6
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4166 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $23.18 $42.95 $33.76 $36.05
Overall $23.81 $60.58 $42.03 $43.59
Top $25.03 $65.72 $45.08 $47.29

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Information, Culture, Recreation
Educational Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
44%
44%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
0%
0%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
9%
9%
Vacancy Rate
5%

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4167
Average Wage
$32.26
Per Hour
Average Salary
$58,132.00
Per Year
Average Hours
33.8
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
11.9
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 4167 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

B: Good Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $16.00 $40.05 $26.98 $23.13
Overall $17.50 $53.55 $32.26 $28.57
Top $20.00 $53.55 $34.45 $32.97

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Information, Culture, Recreation
Educational Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
41%
41%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
7%
7%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
1%
1%
Vacancy Rate
N/A
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Business, Management and Administrative Studies
  • Environment, Forestry and Related Studies
  • Health Care and Medical Sciences
  • Social Sciences, Law and Religious Studies
  • Social, Community and Protective Services
Other Sources of Information
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) website: rmalberta.com

Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) website: www.appam.org

Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) website: www.ipac.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2020. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

Was this page useful?