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Industry Profile -- by nextsteps staff
Agriculture is big business in Alberta. It has been shown that one in three of us work in agriculture or in a related service. Just think about it. You start with the actual growing of grain or the raising of beef. This creates a need for farmers, equipment / supply producers and retailers, veterinarians and even accountants to name a few. These products are then transported, inspected, processed, packaged, wholesaled, retailed, cooked and served! Look at the job creation there!! Approximately 116,000 jobs make the agri-food industry Alberta's third largest.
One major link in this chain - from the actual growing of food to it's place on the table - is the Food and Beverage Processing industry. Did you know that the food and beverage processing industry is the largest sector of Alberta's manufacturing industry? This may make you stop and ask - "What? Food is manufactured? Well, in a sense it is. Think of a kernel of grain, for example. It gets milled into flour, mixed with other ingredients and then baked into bread. Food and Beverage processing companies provide approximately 18,000 jobs in Alberta. These jobs can be found in the major processing areas of red and white meat, dairy, oilseeds, flour and baking, vegetable processing and frozen entree preparation.
Alberta food processing companies vary in size from 1 to over 800 employees. Industry representatives report a relatively low turnover rate and a wide age range of employees. The workplace is generally a factory setting, but much cleaner. When you are working with food, strict health standards are required. Depending on the position, the work can often be very physically demanding. When processing for the masses, you are definitely going to buy in bulk!!
Jobs
Job opportunities span all categories, entry-level to specialized positions. Below is just a sampling of the jobs involved in the food and beverage processing industry.
Processing Machine Operator
- operate process control machine to process and package food and beverage products
- training is usually provided on-the-job
- average salary range: $23,000-$34,000/year
Biotechnologists
- apply knowledge of biochemistry, microbiology and molecular genetics to improve industrial processes in food and beverage products
- 4 year Bachelor of Science offered at University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge with specialization in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biological Sciences or Biotechnology depending on the university
- starting salaries: $21,000 - $34,000/year
Food Processing Production Worker
- perform various duties in food and beverage production, often in an assembly line setting
- training usually provided on-the-job
- salary range: $13,440 - $19,200/year
Quality Assurance Technician
- test and inspect food and beverage product in-house to ensure product standards are in place
- depending on the employer, a 4 year Bachelor of Science offered at University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge with specialization in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biological Sciences or Biotechnology depending on the university
- average salary range: $32,000 - $53,000/year
Laboratory Technologist
Food Scientist
Alberta Situation - Good News for You
A recent study found that in order for Alberta's Agri-Food industry to reach its potential, 400 new companies will be required. As a major player in this sector, the Food and Beverage Processing industry will share in the formation of these companies. Just looking on the HRDC Labour Market Information site, you can find news of at least 3 major plants being built by the year 2000. This means more jobs!
This industry is fortunate to have a very pro-active industry association. The Alberta Food Processors Association works to create opportunities for Alberta food processing companies. This is accomplished through programs which increase consumer awareness, provide market information, education and networking. The Association has initiated several programs to involve youth in the industry. One creation is the Ambassador internship program. Selected students, aged 17 to 25, learn about industry trends, strategies for merchandising and sales skills. Then over 13 weeks, the Ambassadors promote Alberta - made products to schools, business groups, grocers and restaurants. When it's all over, they hold $750 pay, $750 bursary, work experience and very valuable industry contacts. The Food Processors Association is involved in numerous other projects for youth, intending to build markets and develop a skilled work force. Visit their site for more information.
Growth
As the public demands convenient, lightly processed and inexpensive food products, Alberta companies are answering. Competition is high within the industry, as companies seek to establish a place in the market. Innovation becomes essential and will lead to the development of new products and new jobs. These factors will contribute to the continued growth of the Alberta's Food Processing Industry and more career possibilities for YOU!
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