Wages and benefits vary according to the industry and specific employer, and skill level and experience of the applicant. There is no standard “northern allowance” although employers may offer incentives to attract and keep workers. This is usually seen for employees at higher levels, since those positions take specific experience and training and there may be less job seekers with those skills to choose from. In order to determine the average of what a position pays in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, visit websites with postings, such as Fort McMurray Today or the Canadian Government Job Bank.

Minimum wage
As of April 1, 2008, minimum wage in Alberta is $8.40 per hour. Most employers pay above this rate in Fort McMurray. For more information about minimum wage and other employment standards visit the Alberta Employment and Immigration website. Or call toll free in Alberta, 310-0000, then 427-3731, or outside of Alberta, call (780) 427-3731.

2005 Wage Survey
WAGEinfo – the 2007 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, select Wood Buffalo/Cold Lake

Labour rates
Construction Labour Relations Association wage summaries
CAODC’s recommended labour rates for rig workers
Also visit association and union websites. Average pay rates are usually published periodically for member information.

Northern Resident Deduction
Fort McMurray residents qualify for the Zone B Northern Resident Deduction