Mining, Oil & Gas Employment in Canada (2001–2024)

The mining, oil, and gas extraction industry in Canada has experienced significant shifts in employment over the past two decades. From 138,947 employees in 2001, the sector grew to a peak of over 231,854 employees in 2014 before undergoing a period of decline and recovery, stabilizing at 213,102 employees in 2024.

Mining Employment in Canada

Mining employment in Canada steadily increased from 51,231 workers in 2001 to 83,423 in 2024. The sector showed resilience even during economic downturns, benefiting from global demand for natural resources.

Oil & Gas Employment in Canada

Employment in oil and gas extraction started at 37,539 workers in 2001, reaching a high of 64,306 in 2014, before facing declines due to market volatility. As of 2024, the number of employees in this segment stands at 54,192.

Support Activities for Mining, Oil & Gas

Support services form a crucial part of the industry, with employment growing from 50,177 in 2001 to 75,487 in 2024. These jobs include drilling, exploration, and logistical support necessary for core extraction activities.

Key Trends

• Peak Employment: 2014 saw the highest number of employees at 231,854.
• Market Fluctuations: The sector witnessed significant employment drops, especially during 2009 (-10%), 2015 (-9%), and 2016 (-10%).
• Recent Recovery: Post-2020, the industry rebounded, reflecting global economic recovery and demand for energy resources.

Number of People Employed in Mining, Oil & Gas Sector in Canada (2001-2024)

Year	Mining & Quarrying Employees	Oil & Gas Employees	Support Employees for mining, and oil and gas extraction	Total Employees	Growth YoY
2001	51,231	37,539	50,177	138,947
2002	47,893	39,498	53,834	141,225	2%
2003	47,391	40,831	60,816	149,038	6%
2004	45,986	42,173	65,617	153,776	3%
2005	46,689	44,346	71,453	162,488	6%
2006	48,830	48,677	83,486	180,993	11%
2007	52,877	54,035	85,325	192,237	6%
2008	58,507	56,288	87,711	202,506	5%
2009	52,435	54,660	74,526	181,621	-10%
2010	52,543	51,686	82,432	186,661	3%
2011	56,688	54,113	96,250	207,051	11%
2012	63,440	58,887	98,906	221,232	7%
2013	65,013	61,572	99,435	226,020	2%
2014	65,540	64,306	102,008	231,854	3%
2015	63,530	61,900	86,373	211,803	-9%
2016	62,195	57,349	70,279	189,823	-10%
2017	66,653	55,636	77,491	199,780	5%
2018	70,808	56,270	76,521	203,599	2%
2019	71,446	55,853	73,154	200,453	-2%
2020	71,976	54,271	60,153	186,400	-7%
2021	73,665	52,509	65,346	191,520	3%
2022	80,240	54,714	71,653	206,607	8%
2023	82,805	56,211	73,998	213,014	3%
2024	83,423	54,192	75,487	213,102	0%

Source:

Statistics Canada. Table 14-10-0202-01  Employment by industry, annual