Job prospects Cook, Third in the Edmonton Region

Over the past few years (2021-2023), there was a labour surplus for Cooks in the Edmonton Region. There were more workers available than job openings in this occupation.

Source Labour Market Information | Recent Trends Methodology

The employment outlook will be moderate for Cooks (NOC 63200) in the Edmonton region for the 2024-2026 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
• Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
• High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

• The accommodation and food services industry had the highest job vacancy rate among industries in the province over the first half of 2024, indicating that there are employment opportunities going unfilled.
• Population growth should improve the demand for this occupation. However, restaurants remain sensitive to the discretionary spending of consumers, which is dependent on economic conditions.
• Food service employers are having an increasingly difficult time recruiting and retaining employees at all levels, meaning that hiring requirements may be more flexible, at least over the near-term.
• Employment opportunities for this occupation are good, thanks to an abundance of tourist attractions that encourage dining out. The support by both residents and tourists, create consistent demand for workers in the hospitality and food service sectors. 

Here are some key facts about Cooks in the Edmonton region:

• Approximately 5,750 people work in this occupation.
• Cooks mainly work in the following sectors:
  • Accommodation and food services (NAICS 72): 82%
  • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 8%

Source Labour Market Information | Prospects Methodology