The Government of Canada has stated that the energy industry in Alberta employed approximately 91,000 people in 2020, representing about 5% of total employment in the province. This includes jobs in the oil and gas extraction, support activities for mining and oil and gas, and pipelines sectors.

"Total Canadian proven oil reserves are estimated at 171.0 billion barrels, of which 166.3 billion barrels are found in Alberta's oil sands and an additional 4.7 billion barrels in conventional, offshore, and tight oil formations.  Canada accounts for 10% of the world’s proven oil reserves."

Before considering a job in the oilfield and energy industry in Alberta, individuals will need to obtain various certifications and licenses. Some of the most common certificates that may be required to work in the energy industry in Alberta are as follows:

  • Safety Certificates: Many energy companies in Alberta have strict safety policies and procedures, and may require workers to hold safety certificates such as H2S Alive, First Aid, and Ground Disturbance. These certificates provide training on how to identify and mitigate potential hazards, and how to respond to emergencies.

  • Industry-Specific Certificates: Depending on the specific sector and role, workers in the energy industry in Alberta may need to obtain industry-specific certifications. For example, workers in the oil sands sector may need to obtain a Common Safety Orientation (CSO) certificate, while workers in the drilling and completions sector may need to obtain a Well Control certificate.

  • Driver's License: Many jobs in the energy industry in Alberta require workers to operate vehicles or equipment, and may require a valid driver's license. Depending on the specific role, workers may need to obtain a Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 driver's license.

  • Trade Certificates: Some jobs in the energy industry in Alberta may require workers to hold trade certificates, such as a Journeyman certificate or an Apprenticeship certificate. These certificates demonstrate a worker's proficiency in a specific trade, such as welding, pipefitting, or electrical work.

With respects to the top oilfield & energy companies in Alberta, it can be very difficult to definitively rank these organizations, as opinions on the best employers can vary depending on an individual's priorities and preferences.  That being said, here are ten oil and gas and energy companies that are frequently mentioned as top employers in Alberta from various sources:

Suncor Energy:

Suncor is a leading Canadian energy company that operates in the oil sands, offshore, and refining and marketing sectors. The company has a strong focus on safety and sustainability, and has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Alberta by various organizations.

Canadian Natural Resources:

Canadian Natural is one of the largest independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world. The company has a strong focus on employee development and training, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Enbridge:

Enbridge is a leading energy transportation and distribution company, with operations in Canada, the United States, and offshore. The company is committed to diversity and inclusion, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

CNRL:

Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL) is one of the largest independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world. The company has a strong focus on employee development and training, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Husky Energy:

Husky Energy is a Canadian-based integrated energy company that operates in the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors. The company has a strong focus on safety and sustainability, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Cenovus Energy:

Cenovus Energy is a Canadian oil and gas company with operations in Alberta and British Columbia. The company has a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, and has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Alberta by various organizations.

Imperial Oil:

Imperial Oil is a leading Canadian oil and gas company with operations in Canada, the United States, and offshore. The company has a strong focus on safety and sustainability, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Canadian Oil Sands:

Canadian Oil Sands is one of the largest owners of the Syncrude oil sands project in Alberta. The company has a strong focus on employee development and training, and has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Alberta by various organizations.

TransCanada:

TransCanada (also known as TC Energy) is a leading energy transportation and distribution company, with operations in Canada, the United States, and offshore. The company is committed to diversity and inclusion, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Shell Canada:

Shell Canada is a leading oil and gas company with operations in Canada and offshore. The company has a strong focus on safety and sustainability, and has a significant presence in Alberta.

Again, it is important to note that these are just a few examples of some of the top oil and gas and energy companies to work for in Alberta, and the best employer for an individual will depend on their personal priorities and preferences.