Download Health Care Career Opportunities In Northwestern Ontario

Health Care Career
Opportunities
Northwest Ontario
in
is funded by
2006
North of Superior Training Board/Comité de formation du Nord Supérieur
215 Red River Road, Suite 201, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 1A5
Telephone: (807) 346-2940 • Fax: (807) 344-5464
Toll free:1-888-800-8893 • TTY: (807) 346-2944
Executive Summary
Background
Northwestern Ontario’s labour market is being shaken up! The health sector within
the Northwestern Ontario region is heating up as the rising star of our labour market.
Over the past six years, the knowledge-based health care economy in Northwestern
Ontario has received significant attention and investments, including: development
of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, expansion of research at the Northwestern
Ontario Regional Cancer Centre, and the construction and opening of the new Thunder
Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and teaching hospital. Additionally, biotechnology
within our region has become a hot commodity. With close ties to the health sector,
biotechnology in Northwestern Ontario has seen exciting new developments, such
as the partnership of Lakehead University and Genesis Genomics Inc. in opening a
new Micro array research facility.
However, health care in Northwestern Ontario is still facing labour shortages.
In comparison to 75% of health care agencies surveyed in the entire province,
Northwestern Ontario has more vacancies in health care occupations. Future skill
shortages are expected in health care occupations as a result of an aging population.
The health care occupations expected to be affected the most are such careers as:
registered nurses, followed by nursing assistants, and medical laboratory technicians.
To help market health care careers to youth, Aboriginal people, and mature learners,
the North Superior Training Board (NSTB) has developed this resource tool, First Aid Kit
to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario. This resource tool will assist in the
promotion of health care careers to address labour shortages within the growing health
care sector in Northwestern Ontario and within facilities such as our regional cancer
centre, health sciences centre, and medical school.
Project Outcomes
The objective of the First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario is
to raise awareness and promote career opportunities in Northwestern Ontario’s growing
health and biotechnology sector. This resource tool will provide you, the interested high
school student, Aboriginal or mature learner, with information on the vast majority of
health care careers in view of Northwestern Ontario’s health care sector. Everything you
might want to know about each health care career is provided, including: a job
description, a listing of job duties, the work environment, the training requirements,
any related occupations, the general wage rate for Northwestern Ontario (if not available,
general wage rate for Ontario is provided), the employment prospects, the professional
and regulatory organizations for the career, and where an individual can attain training.
The First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario also provides
testimonials from various health care professionals working and practicing in the region.
The First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario is a user-friendly
resource tool for anyone interested in our region’s health care and biotechnology
sectors, including: students, teachers, parents, student service offices and job seekers.
To facilitate the effective use of the First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern
Ontario, the resource tool is available in both a hard copy format and as an online version,
available on the NSTB web site www.nstb.on.ca. Hard copies can be found widely
distributed to human resource departments in Northwestern Ontario’s health care
sector and related agencies and organizations, as well as to all elementary schools,
secondary schools, libraries, learning resource centres, and employment support
providers. The First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario will assist
the difficult process of health care recruitment in Northwestern Ontario which faces
many challenges.
North Superior Training Board
1
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board:
“The Leading Voice for the Direction of Training”
The North Superior Training Board (NSTB), formed in 1997, is 1 of 21 Local Training
Boards established in Ontario and is a non-government, not-for-profit, community-based
organization. Volunteers from business, labour, education, and equity groups work at a
local level to develop solutions to labour market needs. The mandate of the NSTB is to:
• Identify existing employment programs and services
• Identify existing training and adjustment needs
• Identify economic trends and areas of growth
• Identify trends, opportunities and priorities in local labour force issues
• Advocate life-long learning and improved access to training opportunities
The NSTB/CFNS Board area is known as Local Area #24 and is made up of the entire
Thunder Bay district as well as the area west of White River, east of Ojibway Nation
of Saugeen, and south of Webequie. The area includes Nibinamik (Summer Beaver),
Neskantaga (Landsdowne House) and Eabametoong (Fort Hope). This area is the same as
the Thunder Bay management area of Service Canada.
Introduction: Welcome! BOOZHOO NIIJI!
You have fallen down and cannot get up! You need help!
Where does that help come from?
Traditionally, thinking about health care professions usually brings an image to mind
of a doctor in a white lab coat, or a nurse in scrubs; the gold standard health professions.
A paramedic though would have been your first-line of help in the above scenario.
When you flick on the television, chances are Northwestern Ontario’s media health
care spotlight is on the doctor or nurse labour shortages. Yet, did you know that
Northwestern Ontario has more vacancies in health care occupations compared to
75% of healthcare agencies surveyed in the entire province? Along with health care
is the need for more research to advance health care. In Northwestern Ontario,
biotechnology is quickly becoming a mainstay in assisting our health care sector
by providing medical advancements. The First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in
Northwestern Ontario will open your eyes to the vast array of occupations available to
you, both in health care and in biotechnology! Remember, nursing is not just for females,
nor is doctoring just for men! So keep your mind open as you delve into our First Aid Kit.
You will get the first aid you need to find the occupation right for you and point you on
the right path to being a health care professional in our great region!
Information for the First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario was
collected through: the National Occupational Classification Index 2001, Service Canada,
Ontario Job Futures, numerous universities, colleges, and other training institutions,
as well as various health care professionals in Northwestern Ontario. The information
was compiled in an easy-to-read format to help you find the first aid you need as quickly
as possible!
We hope your journey through the First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern
Ontario is helpful in pointing you in the right direction to reaching your career goals.
We look forward to seeing you employed in Northwestern Ontario’s health care sector
in the future.
2
www.nstb.on.ca
Thank you! Migwech!
The North Superior Training Board
North Superior Training Board
Acknowledgements
The North Superior Training Board (NSTB) would like to extend many thanks to Dianne
Brothers, of Service Canada, for her assistance with this project.
We also thank the Niagara Training & Adjustment Board (NTAB) and the Waterloo Wellington Training & Adjustment Board (WWTAB) for sharing their Catalogues of Health
Care Careers resource tools (released 2003 and 2004 respectively). For anyone interested
in Health Sector Careers in the Niagara or Waterloo-Wellington regions visit the NTAB
web site at www.ntab.org or the WWTAB web site at www.wwtab.com.
The North Superior Training Board (NSTB) would also like to extend its appreciation to
AnnaMaria Soviero for conducting the research and for participating in the writing of the
First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario. In May of 2006, Anna will
graduate from the 4 year Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology program at Lakehead
University. Anna Soviero aspires to become a family physician, attend the new Northern
Ontario School of Medicine, and practice in Northwestern Ontario.
Reproduction Policy
An online version of the First Aid Kit is available at www.nstb.on.ca.
Reproduction of this document, in whole, or in part, is permitted and encouraged.
Note: The North Superior Training Board acknowledges that the information contained
within this document is subject to change and will continue to seek out information in
areas that require further analysis and action.
The views expressed in the First Aid Kit to Health Care Careers in Northwestern Ontario
do not necessarily reflect those of the Government of Canada.
Copyright © 2005
3
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
Traditional Health Care Careers
4
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC Index #
NOC Index Title
Page
NOC 3111
Specialist Physician (Clinical Medicine)
NOC 3111
Specialist Physician (Laboratory Medicine)
8
NOC 3111
Specialist Physician (Surgery)
10
6
NOC 3112
General Practitioners and Family Physicians
13
NOC 3113
Dentists
17
NOC 3114
Veterinarians
19
NOC 3121
Optometrists
21
NOC 3122
Chiropractors
23
NOC 3123
Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing
and Treating
25
NOC 3131
Pharmacists
28
NOC 3132
Dietitians and Nutritionists
31
NOC 3141
Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
33
NOC 3142
Physiotherapists
36
NOC 3143
Occupational Therapists
39
NOC 3144
Other Professional Occupations in Therapy and Assessment
41
NOC 3151
Head Nurses and Supervisors
43
NOC 3152
Registered Nurses
46
NOC 3211
Medical Laboratory Technologists and Pathologists’ Assistants
50
NOC 3212
Medical Laboratory Technicians
53
NOC 3213
Veterinary and Animal Health Technologists and Technicians
55
NOC 3214
Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and
Cardio-Pulmonary Technologists
57
NOC 3215
Medical Radiation Technologists
60
NOC 3216
Medical Sonographers
63
NOC 3217
Cardiologists
65
NOC 3218
Electroencephalographic and Other Diagnostic Technologists,
n.e.c.
67
NOC 3219
Other Medical Technologists and Tehnicians (except Dental Health)
69
NOC 3221
Denturists
71
NOC 3222
Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists
73
NOC 3223
Dental Technologists, Technicians, and Laboratory
Bench Workers
76
NOC 3231
Opticians
78
NOC 3232
Midwives and Practitioners of Natural Healing
80
NOC 3233
Licensed Practical Nurses
82
NOC 3234
Ambulance Attendants and Other Paramedical Occupations
85
NOC 3235
Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment
90
NOC 3411
Dental Assistant
93
NOC 3413
Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates
95
NOC 3414
Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services
98
North Superior Training Board
Non-Tradional Health Care Careers
NOC Index #
NOC Index Title
Page
NOC 0014
Senior Managers - Health, Education, Social and Community
Services and Membership Organizations
101
NOC 0311
Managers in Health Care
103
NOC 0411
Government Managers - Health and Social Policy Development
and Program Administration
105
NOC 1243
Medical Secretaries
107
NOC 1244
Medical Transcriptionists
109
NOC 2263
Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and
Occupational Health and Safety
111
NOC 4151
Psychologists
113
NOC 4152
Social Workers
116
NOC 4153
Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors
119
NOC 4165
Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
122
NOC 4167
Kinesiologists
124
NOC 4169
Other Professional Occupations in Social Science
126
NOC 4212
Community and Social Service Workers
129
Biotechnology Careers
NOC Index #
NOC Index Title
Page
NOC 2112
Chemists
133
NOC 2121
Biologists and Other Related Scientists
137
NOC 2148
Other Professional Engineers, n.e.c.
Additional Biotechnology Resources
140
5
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3111
Specialist Physicians (Clinical Medicine)
Job Description
Specialists in clinical medicine diagnose and treat diseases, physiological or psychiatric
disorders and act as consultants to other physicians. Residents in training to become
specialist physicians are included in this unit group.
Duties
Specialists in clinical medicine perform some or all of the following duties:
• Diagnose and treat diseases and physiological or psychiatric disorders
• Order laboratory tests, X-rays and other diagnostic procedures
“...the province of Ontario announced it will spend $1.7 million over three years
to help foreign-trained medical graduates.”
• Prescribe medication and treatment and refer patients for surgery
• Act as consultants to other physicians
• May conduct medical research
Example Titles
• Anesthetist
• Gastroenterologist
• Pneumologist
• Cardiologist
• Geriatrician
• Pediatrician
• Clinical Immunologist-allergist
• Hematologist
• Physiatrist
• Dermatologist
• Nephrologist
• Psychiatrist
• Diagnostic Radiologist
• Neurologist
• Radiation Oncologist
• Emergency Physician
• Oncologist
• Respirologist
• Endocrinologist
• Orthopedist
• Rheumatologist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Medical Laboratories
• Universities
• Private Practice
Training Needed
• A bachelor of science degree
• Graduation from an approved medical school and specific specialty training is required
• Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and
Surgeons of Canada
• Licensing by the provincial or territorial licensing authority are required
Specialists in Clinical Medicine:
6
www.nstb.on.ca
• Four to five years of specialty residency training is required
• Two years of subspecialty training may also be required
• Progression to management positions, such as director of laboratory medicine
or chief of surgery, is possible with experience
North Superior Training Board
Related Occupations
• Chiropractors (3122)
• General Practitioners and Family Physicians (3112)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
• Naturopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $162.40/ hr average
Employment Prospect
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
There is currently a large demand for physicians in Ontario. This demand is expected to
grow, due to the growing and ageing population. As well, A substantial number of job
openings will be created each year from the need to replace physicians who retire.
According to the 2004 National Physician Survey, one third of specialists could not see
non-urgent cases referred from family physicians in less than three months. The survey
also found that retirement rates for physicians are anticipated to almost double within the
next two years, and for some specialties more than double. Specialists in some fields and
geographic locations are currently in short supply. In November, 2004, the province of
Ontario announced it will spend $1.7 million over three years to help foreign-trained
medical graduates living in Ontario develop their skills and find jobs in the health sector,
which should start to improve the availability of physicians.
Technical progress in telecommunications may mean that specialists can provide services
at a distance, perhaps in collaboration with general practitioners. Job opportunities will
be better for individuals with training in anesthesiology, obstetrics/gynecology,
pathology, psychiatry and oncology.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
60
60
0
1996
85
85
0
% change
-25
-25
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario - www.cpso.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Medical Association - www.oma.org
Ontario Universities that Offer Medicine:
Locally
• The Northern Ontario School of Medicine - www.normed.ca
In Ontario
• University of Ottawa - http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/med/
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/medicine/
• University of Toronto - http://www.facmed.utoronto.ca/scripts/index_.asp
• McMaster University
- http://65.39.131.180/ContentPage.aspx?name=MD%20Program%20Home
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.schulich.uwo.ca/medicine
North Superior Training Board
7
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3111
Specialist Physicians (Laboratory Medicine)
Job Description
Specialists in laboratory medicine study the nature, cause and development of diseases in
humans. Residents in training to become specialist physicians are included in this unit group.
Duties
Specialists in laboratory medicine perform some or all of the following duties:
• Study the nature, cause and development of diseases in humans and the structural
and functional changes caused by diseases
• Conduct microscopic and chemical analyses of laboratory samples and specimens
• Supervise laboratory activities
• Act as consultants to other physicians
Example Titles
• Anatomical
• Hematopathologist
• Medical Microbiologist
• Pathologist
• Medical Biochemist
• Neuropathologist
• General Pathologist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Medical Laboratories
• Universities
• Private Practice
Training Needed
• A bachelor of science degree
• Graduation from an approved medical school and specific specialty training is required
• Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and
Surgeons of Canada
• Licensing by the provincial or territorial licensing authority are required
Specialists in Laboratory Medicine:
• Four to five years of specialty residency training is required
• Progression to management positions, such as director of laboratory medicine
or chief of surgery, is possible with experience
Related Occupations
• Chiropractors (3122)
• General Practitioners and Family Physicians (3112)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
8
www.nstb.on.ca
• Naturopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $162.40/ hr average
North Superior Training Board
Employment Prospect
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
There is currently a large demand for physicians in Ontario. This demand is expected
to grow, due to the growing and ageing population. As well, a substantial number of
job openings will be created each year from the need to replace physicians who retire.
According to the 2004 National Physician Survey, one third of specialists could not see
non-urgent cases referred from family physicians in less than three months. The survey
also found that retirement rates for physicians are anticipated to almost double within
the next two years, and for some specialties more than double. Specialists in some fields
and geographic locations are currently in short supply.
In November, 2004, the province of Ontario announced it will spend $1.7 million over
three years to help foreign-trained medical graduates living in Ontario develop their
skills and find jobs in the health sector, which should start to improve the availability
of physicians.
Technical progress in telecommunications may mean that specialists can provide
services at a distance, perhaps in collaboration with general practitioners. Job
opportunities will be better for individuals with training in anesthesiology, obstetrics/
gynecology, pathology, psychiatry and oncology.
Census Labour Force Data
2001
Total
Employed
Unemployed
60
60
0
1996
85
85
0
% change
-25
-25
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario - www.cpso.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Medical Association - www.oma.org
Ontario Universities that Offer Medicine:
Locally
• The Northern Ontario School of Medicine - www.normed.ca
In Ontario
• University of Ottawa - http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/med/
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/medicine/
• University of Toronto - http://www.facmed.utoronto.ca/scripts/index_.asp
• McMaster University
- http://65.39.131.180/ContentPage.aspx?name=MD%20Program%20Home
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.schulich.uwo.ca/medicine
9
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3111
Specialist Physicians (Surgery)
Job Description
Specialists in surgery perform and supervise surgical procedures. Residents in training to
become specialist physicians are included in this unit group.
Duties
Specialists in surgery perform some or all of the following duties:
• Assess patients’ diseases or disorders to determine appropriate surgical procedures
• Perform and supervise surgical procedures to correct physical abnormalities and
deficiencies and repair injuries
• Act as consultants to other physicians
“I saw medicine as a positive contribution to society.”
Dr. Blair Schoales, M.D., FRCS(C)
Example Titles
• Cardiac Surgeon
• Ophthalmologist
• Plastic Surgeon
• General Surgeon
• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Thoracic Surgeon
• Neurosurgeon
• Otolaryngologist
• Urologist
• Obstetrician-gynaecologist
• Pediatric Surgeon
• Vascular Surgeon
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Medical Laboratories
• Universities
• Private Practice
Training Needed
• A bachelor of science degree
• Graduation from an approved medical school and specific specialty training is required
• Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and
Surgeons of Canada
• Licensing by the provincial or territorial licensing authority are required
Specialists in Laboratory Medicine:
• Five to six years of specialty residency training is required
• Two years of subspecialty training may also be required
• Progression to management positions, such as director of laboratory medicine or chief
of surgery, is possible with experience
Related Occupations
• Chiropractors (3122)
10
www.nstb.on.ca
• General Practitioners and Family Physicians (3112)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
• Naturopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
North Superior Training Board
Dr. Blair Schoales
Occupational Title: Ophthalmologist, Former Chief of Staff, Thunder Bay Regional Health
Sciences Centre; Current Vice-Dean of Admissions, Northern Ontario School of Medicine
Years in Career: 26
Training: BSc in Chemistry, M.D., FRCS(C) - Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada
A “combination of factors” prompted Dr. Schoales to enter the field of medicine and surgery.
Dr. Schoales shared the following reasons with us: “I saw medicine as a positive contribution
to society. However, I was not being totally altruistic. I felt that medicine had positive viewpoints
in that it was, and is, a profession that is looked on favourably. Academically, I felt it was
appropriate in relation to my strengths. Medicine is interesting and offers an individual
variety; not assembly line type work. As well, there was a relative shortage in the community,
so becoming a doctor and surgeon was meeting a need.”
What does Dr. Schoales like best about practicing medicine in Northwestern Ontario?
“Medicine in Northwestern Ontario is changing as we go. I think there are very significant
opportunities for an individual to be a physician who has a significant impact and influence on
health care; even within the community as a whole. Physicians have maximal opportunities to
reach their maximal potential. In some places, having the right pedigree made a person a
‘good’ physician which initiated a hierarchy that doctors had to work through. This hierarchy
does not exist here. Relatively new doctors, in a short time, bring in new policy modalities.
If a physician wanted to be a part of a Northwestern Ontario board, that physician would not
need to wait generations to get onto the board. Physicians are well-appreciated by their
patients and the community as a whole. One of the greatest things is that with the brand-new
medical school, the research and clinical roles are expanding. From a clinical standpoint,
most clinicians in Northwestern Ontario would be more generalists; or within a specialty be
more comprehensive.
Dr. Schoales let us in on what skills, abilities and personality traits he believes a successful
doctor/surgeon should have: “Academic competency is important. One needs to be able to
acquire, store and use information, but this is not an overwhelming factor. An individual must
also have a certain amount of empathy. The best doctors are doctors that care about their
patients. Some people say the more you care, the harder it is on you emotionally and
physically, but I would want that from a physician. Honesty and integrity are also very
important. There are checks and balances, but quality and control lies with the physician.
Communication skills are huge as well. Also, I think that what people have underweighted
is one’s ability to work in a team or as part of a team. Sure there is a hierarchy, but all health
care professionals have to contribute. The wise doctor is the one that listens to the team.
A certain amount of emotional stability and resiliency are required because of the ups and
downs in medicine. You cannot be totally destroyed by one bad experience. There are both
good days and bad days. Finally, a physician needs a measure of stability. A physician has to
be under control 99.9% of the time. A physician needs to be in a fairly narrow confine in terms
of stability. If a physician moves out of this confine, the physician needs to be able to move
back into the confine and not let it affect his or her work.
Words of Wisdom
“All indicators at the moment indicate that the future for all health disciplines is bright.
The demographics of our population and the current health care providers is that there
is a high demand and a high number of health care providers ready to retire, resulting in
bright prospects for those wanting to enter into a health care career. I would suggest that
an individual who wants a career in health care should try and get the most realistic
experience of the day-to-day life of professionals in the individual’s intended field and
compare how the reality matches with one’s own goals and ambitions.”
North Superior Training Board
11
www.nstb.on.ca
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $162.40/ hr average
Employment Prospect
Dr. Blair Schoales, M.D., FRCS(C)
“Honesty and integrity are also very important. There are checks and balances, but quality
and control lies with the physician.“
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
There is currently a large demand for physicians in Ontario. This demand is expected
to grow, due to the growing and ageing population. As well, a substantial number of
job openings will be created each year from the need to replace physicians who retire.
According to the 2004 National Physician Survey, one third of specialists could not see
non-urgent cases referred from family physicians in less than three months. The survey
also found that retirement rates for physicians are anticipated to almost double within the
next two years, and for some specialties more than double. Specialists in some fields and
geographic locations are currently in short supply. In November 2004, the province of
Ontario announced it will spend $1.7 million over three years to help foreign-trained
medical graduates living in Ontario develop their skills and find jobs in the health sector,
which should start to improve the availability of physicians.
Technical progress in telecommunications may mean that specialists can provide services
at a distance, perhaps in collaboration with general practitioners. Job opportunities will
be better for individuals with training in anesthesiology, obstetrics/gynecology,
pathology, psychiatry and oncology.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
60
60
0
1996
85
85
0
% change
-25
-25
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario - www.cpso.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Medical Association - www.oma.org
Ontario Universities that Offer Medicine:
Locally
• The Northern Ontario School of Medicine - www.normed.ca
In Ontario
• University of Ottawa - http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/med/
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/medicine/
• University of Toronto - http://www.facmed.utoronto.ca/scripts/index_.asp
• McMaster University - http://65.39.131.180/ContentPage.aspx?name=MD%20Program
%20Home
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.schulich.uwo.ca/medicine
12
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3112
General Practitioners and Family Physicians
Job Description
General practitioners and family physicians diagnose and treat the diseases, physiological
disorders and injuries of patients. They provide primary contact and continuous care
toward the management of patients’ health. Residents in training to be general
practitioners and family physicians are included in this group.
Duties
General practitioners and family physicians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Examine patients and take their histories, order laboratory tests, X-rays and other
diagnostic procedures and consult with other medical practitioners to evaluate patients’
physical and mental health
• Prescribe and administer medications and treatments
• Perform and assist in routine surgery
• Provide emergency care
• Inoculate and vaccinate patients
• Deliver babies and provide pre-natal and post-natal care
• Advise patients and their families on health care including health promotion, disease,
illness and accident prevention
• Provide counselling and support to patients and their families on a wide range of health
and lifestyle issues
• Perform patient advocacy role
• Co-ordinate or manage primary patient care
• Provide continuous care to patients
• Supervise home care services
• Report births, deaths, and contagious and other diseases to governmental authorities
Example Titles
• Family Physician
• Resident, General Practice
• Medical Doctor
• General Practitioner (GP)
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Private Practice
- individual,group, or team
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree
• Graduation from approved medical school
• Two to three years of family medicine residency training required
• Completion of qualifying examinations of the Medical Council of Canada
• Licensing by provincial or territorial licensing authority required
(College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario)
North Superior Training Board
13
www.nstb.on.ca
Job Description
General practitioners and family physicians diagnose and treat the diseases, physiological
disorders and injuries of patients. They provide primary contact and continuous care
toward the management of patients’ health. Residents in training to be general
practitioners and family physicians are included in this group.
Duties
General practitioners and family physicians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Examine patients and take their histories, order laboratory tests, X-rays and other
diagnostic procedures and consult with other medical practitioners to evaluate patients’
physical and mental health
• Prescribe and administer medications and treatments
• Perform and assist in routine surgery
• Provide emergency care
• Inoculate and vaccinate patients
• Deliver babies and provide pre-natal and post-natal care
• Advise patients and their families on health care including health promotion, disease,
illness and accident prevention
• Provide counselling and support to patients and their families on a wide range of health
and lifestyle issues
• Perform patient advocacy role
• Co-ordinate or manage primary patient care
• Provide continuous care to patients
• Supervise home care services
• Report births, deaths, and contagious and other diseases to governmental authorities
Example Titles
• Family Physician
• Resident, General Practice
• Medical Doctor
• General Practitioner (GP)
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Private Practice
- individual,group, or team
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree
• Graduation from approved medical school
• Two to three years of family medicine residency training required
• Completion of qualifying examinations of the Medical Council of Canada
• Licensing by provincial or territorial licensing authority required (College of Physicians
and Surgeons of Ontario)
14
www.nstb.on.ca
• Thunder Bay and Marathon have been announced as two locations for the province’s
Family Health Teams
• General practitioners and family physicians may become specialist physicians with
additional training
North Superior Training Board
Related Occupations
• Chiropractors (3122)
• Naturopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
• Specialist Physicians (3111)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $82.60/ hr average
There is a significant shortage of family physicians in Northwestern Ontario.
In Thunder Bay, thousands of people have no family doctor while many communities
have no doctors at all. Most communities have some form of recruitment program in
place, all with limited success.
The new Northern Ontario School of Medicine, which will welcome its first class in
the fall of 2005, will, over time, improve the situation.
The recent announcement by the provincial government of an increase in the number
of residency positions could assist in bringing in foreign-trained doctors who could locate
in under-serviced areas such as Northwestern Ontario. However, because there is a
shortage throughout the province, the area must compete with many other communities
for doctors’ services.
In Ontario, employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the
average for all occupations through the year 2007, due to the growing and ageing
population. As well, a substantial number of job openings will be created each year from
the need to replace family physicians who retire. The 2001 Ontario Medical Association
survey found that more than one in five Ontario physicians intend to retire from practice
within the next five years. There is a shortage of general practitioners and family
physicians in rural-remote communities.
New general practitioners may be more likely to work in group medical practices
and clinics than in individual practices. The rapid development of new diagnosing and
treating technologies means that people in these occupations must continually update
their skills.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
215
215
0
1996
205
200
0
5
8
0
% change
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario - www.cpso.on.ca
for all occupations through the year 2007, due to the growing and ageing population.
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
In Ontario, employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average
Employment Prospect
Professional Association:
Ontario Medical Association - www.oma.org
Ontario Universities that Offer Medicine:
Locally
• The Northern Ontario School of Medicine - www.normed.ca
North Superior Training Board
15
www.nstb.on.ca
In Ontario
• University of Ottawa - http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/med/
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/medicine/
• University of Toronto - http://www.facmed.utoronto.ca/scripts/index_.asp
• McMaster University http://65.39.131.180/ContentPage.aspx?name=MD%20Program%20Home
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.schulich.uwo.ca/medicine
16
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3113
Dentists
Job Description
Dentists diagnose and treat disorders of the teeth and mouth. Dentists may specialize in
such areas as listed below:
Duties
Dentists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Examine patients’ teeth, gums and surrounding tissue to diagnose disease, injury and
decay and plan appropriate treatment
• Restore and extract diseased and decayed teeth
• Perform oral surgery, periodontal surgery and other treatments
• Clean teeth and instruct patients on oral hygiene
• Design bridgework, fit dentures and provide appliances to correct abnormal positioning
of the teeth and jaws, or write fabrication instructions or prescriptions for use by
denturists and dental technicians
• Supervise dental hygienists, dental assistants and other staff
Example Titles
• Dentist
• Medical Doctor
• Resident, General Practice
• General Practitioner (GP)
Specifications
• Endodontist
• Oral Radiologist
• Periodontist
• Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon
• Orthodontist
• Prosthodontist
• Oral Pathologist
• Pediatric Dentist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Private Practice
• Dental Clinics
• Universities
Training Needed
• One to four years of pre-dentistry university studies
• A university degree from a recognized dental program is required
• Licensing by a provincial or territorial regulatory body is required
• Dentists in general practice can move into a specialized practice through
advanced training
• Licensing for specializations is required
• Certification by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada entitles dentists or
graduates of approved dental programs to practice dentistry in any province in Canada
provided requirements set out by the provincial and territorial licensing authorities
are met
North Superior Training Board
17
www.nstb.on.ca
Work Environment
• Dental Assistants (3411)
• Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists (3222)
• Dental Technologists, Technicians and Laboratory Bench Workers (3223)
• Denturists (3221)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $89.75/ hr average
Employment Prospect
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for
all occupations through the year 2009. Many more job openings will be created each year
from the need to replace workers who retire. The demand for dental services is influenced
by population growth, improvements in oral hygiene that allow elderly people to keep
their teeth longer and public awareness of the importance of dental health. In addition,
as the baby boom ages, a large number of the population will need maintenance on
complicated dental work, such as bridges.
Cosmetic and esthetic procedures are the growing areas in today’s market. The ageing
population is likely to increase demand for restorative dental work.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
80
80
0
1996
50
45
0
% change
60
78
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario - www.rcdso.org/
Professional Association: Ontario Dental Association - http://www.oda.on.ca
Universities in Ontario that offer Dentistry Programs:
• University of Toronto - http://www.utoronto.ca/dentistry/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.schulich.uwo.ca/Dentistry/
18
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3114
Veterinarians
Job Description
Veterinarians prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and disorders in animals and advise
clients on the feeding, hygiene, housing and general care of animals.
Duties
Veterinarians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Diagnose diseases or abnormal conditions in animals through physical examinations or
laboratory tests
• Treat sick or injured animals by prescribing medication, setting bones, dressing wounds
or performing surgery
• Perform routine, emergency and post-mortem examinations
• Inoculate animals to prevent diseases
• Provide obstetrical and dental services
• Advise clients on feeding, housing, breeding, hygiene and general care of animals
• Provide euthanasia services
• May supervise animal health technologists and animal care workers
• May be responsible for overall operation of animal hospital, clinic or mobile service
to farms
• May conduct veterinary research
• May enforce government regulations in disease control and food production including
animal or animal-based food inspection
Example Titles
• Small Animal Veterinary Specialist
• Veterinary Inspector
• Veterinary Physiologist
• Veterinarian
• Veterinary Pathologist
• Zoo Veterinarian
Work Environment
• Private Practice
• Animal Laboratories
• Industry
• Animal Clinics
• Government
Training Needed
• Two to four years of pre-veterinary university studies
• A four-year university degree in veterinary medicine
• Completion of national certification examinations are required
• Provincial licensing is required
• Entry into research positions may require post-graduate study
• The duties of veterinarians performing research may be similar to those
of some biologists
North Superior Training Board
19
www.nstb.on.ca
Related Occupations
• Biologists and Related Scientists (2121)
• Veterinary and Animal Health Technologists and Technicians (3213)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $28.80/ hr average
Employment Prospect
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. Many job openings will result from the need to
replace veterinarians who retire.
The practice of veterinary science is becoming increasingly complex as a result of
biotechnology, advancements in medical treatment and animal health care, and, in the
case of livestock animals, advances in animal reproductive science, pharmaceuticals and
health care. Changes in agriculture due to the changing requirements of world and
domestic markets, and trends in ownership of companion animals or pets will affect the
work of veterinarians.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
25
25
0
1996
35
30
0
% change
-29
-17
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: Royal College of Veterinarians of Ontario - www.cvo.org/
Professional Association: Ontario Veterinary Medical Association - http://www.ovma.org/
Ontario Universities offering Veterinary Medicine:
• Ontario veterinary College at the University of Guelph - http://www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/
20
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3121
Optometrists
Job Description
Optometrists examine eyes, prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses and
recommend treatments such as exercises to correct vision problems or ocular disorders.
They work in private practice, clinics and community health centres.
Duties
Optometrists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Examine patients’ eyes, conduct tests and use ophthalmoscopes, biomicroscopes and
other specialized instruments to determine visual efficiency
• Prescribe treatment (excluding surgery) to conserve, improve and correct vision and
other ocular disorders
• Prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, educate and counsel patients on
contact lens use and care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, working distances and
safety factors
• Refer patients to ophthalmologists or other physicians and surgeons for treatment of
ocular or other diseases or conditions
Example Titles
• Doctor of Optometry
• Optometrist
Work Environment
• Private Practice
• Community Health Centres
• Clinics
Training Needed
• One to three years of college or university, with a concentration in mathematics and
science courses such as molecular biology
• A four-year university program in optometry is required
• Successful completion of the national examination administered by the Canadian
Examiners in Optometry
• Licensing by the provincial regulatory body
• Optometrists are governed by the College of Optometrists of Ontario. Applicants for
registration must meet a number of criteria, including the successfully completion of
the four year optometry program at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry,
or a course of study outside Ontario which the Registration Committee of the College
deems to be equivalent
Related Occupations
• Ophthalmologists (in 3111 Specialist Physicians)
• Opticians (3231)
• Orthoptists
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $42.60/ hr average
North Superior Training Board
21
www.nstb.on.ca
Employment Prospect
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. As the baby boom ages, the percentage of the
population needing the services of optometrists will increase. As well, more Canadians
are expected to have insurance coverage that includes an eyewear allowance. The impact
of Ontario government legislation in 2004 to discontinue payment for selected services
not mandated under the Canada Health Act, including optometry for ages 20 to 64, may
adversely affect the job market for optometrists in the short-term. However, over the long
run, the demand for optometrists should continue to rise in response to the vision care
needs of a growing and ageing population.
The rapid development of new diagnosing and treating technologies means that people in
these occupations must continually update their skills.
“...more Canadians are expected to have insurance coverage that includes an
eyewear allowance.”
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
10
0
0
1996
10
10
0
% change
0
-100
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Optometrists of Ontario - www.collegeoptom.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Association of Optometrists - http://www.optom.on.ca
Ontario Universities offering an Veterinary Program:
• University of Waterloo:
Pre-optometry Program - http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/programs/biomedical.html
Optometry Program - http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/programs/optometry.html
22
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3122
Chiropractors
Job Description
Chiropractors diagnose and treat patients’ neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of
the spine and other body joints by adjusting the spinal column or through other
corrective manipulation.
Duties
Chiropractors perform some or all of the following duties:
• Take patient’s case history, conduct examination, observe patient and perform X-rays
and other tests to diagnose patient’s condition
• Diagnose neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of the spinal column, pelvis, extremities and
associated tissues
• Treat health disorders in a natural manner through adjustments or articular
manipulations and complementary treatments such as electrotherapy, nutrition,
light and massage with special attention given to the spine
• Advise patients on corrective exercises, posture, lifestyle and nutrition
• Refer patients for medical care when appropriate
Example Titles
• Chiropractic Doctor
• Doctor of Chiropractic
• Chiropractor
Work Environment
• Private Practice
• Clinics with other Health Practitioners
Training Needed
• A minimum of two years of university undergraduate studies in sciences
• Completion of a four or five-year program at an institution accredited by the
Accreditation Commission of the Council on Chiropractic Education
• Completion of the examinations of the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board and of
the provincial licensing body is required
Related Occupations
• Chiropractic aides
(in 3414 Assisting Occupations in support of Health Services)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $50.35/ hr average
Employment Prospect
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for
all occupations through the year 2009, due to the increasing demand for alternative forms
of medical treatment. The growing older population, with its increased likelihood of
mechanical and structural problems, will also increase demand. The impact of Ontario
government legislation in 2004 to discontinue payment for selected services not
North Superior Training Board
23
www.nstb.on.ca
mandated under the Canada Health Act, including chiropractic services, may adversely
affect the job market for chiropractors in the short-term. However, over the long run, the
demand for chiropractors should continue to rise in response to the needs for alternative
forms of treatment of a growing and ageing population.
The rapid development of new diagnosing and treating technologies means that people in
this occupation must continually update their skills.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
20
20
0
1996
20
20
0
% change
0
0
0
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Chiropractors of Ontario - www.cco.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Chiropractic Association - http://www.chiropractic.on.ca/
Ontario Universities offering an Chiropractic Programs:
• Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) - http://www.cmcc.ca/
24
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3123
Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating
Job Description
This unit group includes health professionals who diagnose and treat the diseases and
injuries of patients and who are not elsewhere classified. This includes doctors of
podiatric medicine, chiropodists and podiatrists, naturopaths, orthoptists and osteopaths.
They work in private practices, clinics and hospitals.
Example Titles
• Chiropodist/Podiatrist - Chiropodist and podiatrist titles are used interchangeably in
some provinces, although the title podiatrist is becoming more common. The use of the
podiatrist job title does not necessarily refer to doctors of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.).
Chiropodists and diploma podiatrists diagnose diseases, deformities and injuries of the
human foot and treat patients using braces, casts, shields, orthotic devices, physical
therapy and subcutaneous soft-tissue foot surgery
• Foot specialist
• Doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM)- Doctors of podiatric medicine are primary care
practitioners who diagnose diseases, deformities and injuries of the human foot and
communicate diagnoses to patients. Podiatrists treat patients using braces, casts,
shields, orthotic devices, physical therapy, or prescribed medications, as well as
perform surgery on the bones of the forefoot and soft tissues of the foot
• Naturopath, Naturopathic doctor (ND)- Naturopaths diagnose patients’ diseases and
disorders and employ natural methods of healing such as acupuncture and acupressure,
spinal manipulation, reflexology, hydrotherapy, herbal medicines, biochemical therapy,
clinical nutrition, homeopathy and counselling in their treatment
• Orthoptist- Orthoptists assist ophthalmologists in the diagnosis and treatment of eye
disorders by performing specialized eye tests to measure and assess defective
binocular vision or abnormal eye movement in patients and prescribing treatment
such as eye exercises or patching regimens
• Osteopath, Osteopathic physician - Osteopathic physicians diagnose disorders and
injuries of the musculo-skeletal, circulatory and nervous systems and treat patients
with manipulative therapy, medications or surgery. Osteopaths, however, can only treat
patients using manipulative therapy
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Private Practice
• Clinics
Training Needed
Chiropodist/Podiatrist:
• A three-year diploma program in chiropody (D.Ch.) obtained in Canada
• A first-degree program in podiatric medicine (D.Pod.M.) obtained abroad
(United Kingdom) is usually required
• Provincial licensure is required in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba,
Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia
Osteopathic Physicians/Doctor of Osteopathy:
• The training needed to become an osteopathic physician is not available in Canada
• A bachelor’s degree is required for admission to a doctor of osteopathy program
North Superior Training Board
25
www.nstb.on.ca
• A four-year program in osteopathic medicine leading to a doctor of osteopathy degree
and one-year of medical residency are required. The qualifications are usually obtained
in the United States
Osteopaths:
• Osteopaths have extensive training in manual osteopathic practice, but they are not
medical doctors. They treat patients using manual techniques only
• The training needed to become an osteopath is available in Canada. The programs are
generally five years of classroom study with a sixth year that consists of thesis work
with or without classroom study
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine:
• A four-year doctoral degree program in podiatric medicine available in the United
States, normally following completion of a bachelor’s degree program is required
• A doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) degree is required to practice podiatry in
Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia
Naturopathic Doctor:
• A university degree in pre-medical science is required
• A four-year program in naturopathic medicine from a private institute is required
• A licence is required in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia
Orthoptist:
• A minimum of two years of university education with a specialization in science
• PLUS a two-year accredited hospital-based training program in orthoptics offered in
Halifax, Toronto, Saskatoon and Vancouver and practical training under the supervision
of an ophthalmologist are required
• Certification with the Canadian Orthoptic Council is available but is only required
in Quebec
• Continuing education is required for recertification with the Canadian Orthoptic Council
Related Occupations
• Chiropractors (3122)
• General Practitioners and Family Physicians (3112)
• Midwives and Practitioners of Natural Healing (3232)
• Specialist Physicians (3111)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $30.70/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
26
www.nstb.on.ca
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
0
0
0
1996
0
0
0
% change
0
0
0
North Superior Training Board
For Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Chiropractors of Ontario - www.cco.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Chiropractic Association - http://www.chiropractic.on.ca/
Ontario Universities offering an Chiropractic Programs:
• Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) - http://www.cmcc.ca/
Chiropodist/Podiatrist:
Regulatory Body: College of Chiropodists of Ontario - www.cocoo.on.ca
Professional Association: Ontario Society of Chiropodist - http://www.ontariochiropodist.com/
Universities/Colleges in Ontario Offering Chiropody:
• Michener Institute - http://www.michener.on.ca/ft/chiropody.php
Doctor of Osteopathy:
Regulatory Body: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario - www.cpso.on.ca
Professional Association:
Ontario Association of Osteopaths - http://www.osteopathyontario.com/
Universities in Ontario/Canada Offering Osteopathic Medicine: NONE
Colleges in the USA Offering Osteopathic Medicine
• American Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine - http://www.aacom.org/colleges/
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine:
Regulatory Body: College of Chiropodists of Ontario, Board of Regents - www.cocoo.on.ca
Universities/Colleges in Ontario/Canada Offering Podiatry: NONE
Universities in the USA Offering Podiatry:
• American Podiatric Medical Association
- http://www.apma.org/s_apma/docasp?CID=11&DID=8948
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine:
Regulatory Body: Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy, Naturopathy
- http://www.boardofnaturopathicmedicine.on.ca/
Professional Association:
• Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND)- http://www.oand.org/
• Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME)- www.cnme.org
Universities in Ontario Offering Naturopathic Medicine:
• Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine - www.ccnm.edu
Orthoptist:
Regulatory Body:
• Canadian Orthoptic Council - http://www.tcos.ca/about_tcos.html
• Canadian Orthoptics Society - http://www.tcos.ca/index_e.html
Universities in Ontario Offering Orthoptics Programs:
• University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Childrenhttp://www.sickkids.on.ca/hscDirectory/
The rapid development of new diagnosing and treating technologies means that people
in this occupation must continually update their skills.
North Superior Training Board
27
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3131
Pharmacists
Job Description
Community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists compound and dispense prescribed
pharmaceuticals and provide consultative services to both clients and health care
providers. Industrial pharmacists participate in the research, development, promotion
and manufacture of pharmaceutical products.
Duties
Community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists perform some or all of the following
duties:
• Check prescriptions for proper dosage
• Compound and dispense prescribed pharmaceutical products by calculating, measuring
and mixing the quantities of drugs and other ingredients required; filling appropriate
containers with correct quantity; dispensing prescriptions to customers or to other
health care professionals; and advising them of indications, contra-indications,
adverse effects, drug interactions and dosage
• Maintain medication profiles of customers including registry of poisons and narcotic
and controlled drugs
• Ensure proper preparation, packaging, distribution and storage of vaccines, serums,
biologicals and other drugs and pharmaceuticals, as well as order and maintain stock
of pharmaceutical supplies
• Advise customers on selection and use of non-prescription medication
• May supervise and co-ordinate the activities of other pharmacists, pharmacy assistants,
pharmacy technicians and other staff
Industrial pharmacists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Participate in basic research for the development of new drugs
• Formulate new drug products developed by medical researchers
• Test new drug products for stability and to determine their absorption and
elimination patterns
• Co-ordinate clinical investigations of new drugs
• Control the quality of drug products during production to ensure that they meet
standards of potency, purity, uniformity, stability and safety
• Develop information materials concerning the uses, properties and risks of
particular drugs
• Evaluate labeling, packaging and advertising of drug products
• Promote pharmaceutical products to health professionals
Example Titles
28
www.nstb.on.ca
• Clinical pharmacist
• Community Pharmacist
• Druggist
• Hospital Pharmacist
• Industrial Pharmacist
• Pharmacist
• Retail Pharmacist
North Superior Training Board
Workplace Environments
• Community and hospital pharmacies
• Government departments and agencies
• Pharmaceutical companies
Training Needed
• A bachelor of science degree in pharmacy is required
• Pharmacists also require practical training under the supervision of a pharmacist
• Licensure is required in Ontario for community and hospital pharmacists
Related Occupations
• Chemists (2112)
• Chief of pharmacy (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
• Drugstore/Pharmacy Managers (in 0621 Retail Trade Managers)
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives
(in 6221 Technical Sales Specialists - Wholesale Trade)
• Pharmacologists (in 2121 Biologists and Related Scientists)
• Pharmacy assistants
(in 3414 Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services)
• Pharmacy director (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $35.85/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
Over the next two years opportunities for pharmacists are expected to be good in the
Thunder Bay area.
Currently pharmacists are experiencing good employment opportunities. Employment
opportunities should remain good over the next five years (2004-09). Employment of
pharmacists will be greatly influenced by an ageing population that will increase the
demand for prescription drugs. Mail order pharmacies, discount chains and substitution
of pharmacy technicians for pharmacists should, over the longer term, moderate the
current strong demand for pharmacists.
The rapid development of new drugs for treatment and diagnosis means that pharmacists
must update their knowledge continuously. Use of computerized customer and
pharmaceutical databases will require pharmacists to develop appropriate skills.
As well, employers seek individuals with strong interpersonal (client-focused) skills
because of the time spent providing information and advice to consumers.
As the population ages over the coming decades, the demands on all occupations tied to
the health sector are likely to increase.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
90
90
0
1996
140
140
0
% change
-36
-36
0
North Superior Training Board
29
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
Council of the Ontario College of Pharmacists - http://www.ocpinfo.com/
Professional Association:
Ontario Pharmacists’ Association - http://www.ontpharmacists.on.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Pharmacy Programs:
• University of Toronto - http://www.utoronto.ca/pharmacy/
30
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3132
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Job Description
Dietitians and nutritionists plan, organize, conduct and supervise programs in nutrition,
diet and food service. They are employed in a variety of settings including hospitals,
extended-care facilities, public health centres, the food and beverage industry,
educational institutions, sports organizations and government, or they may be
self-employed.
Duties
Dietitians and nutritionists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Develop, administer and supervise nutrition and food preparation and service programs
in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, company cafeterias or similar settings
• Evaluate nutritional status of individuals and provide nutrition counselling and
consulting to health professionals, dietetic interns, community groups, government,
media and individuals
• Aid in the prevention and/or treatment of inadequate nutrition
• Plan, evaluate and conduct nutrition education programs and develop educational
materials for various audiences
• Practice on an individual basis or as a member of an interdisciplinary team to determine
nutritional needs of patients and to plan normal and therapeutic menus
• Study and analyze current scientific nutritional studies and conduct research to improve
the nutritional value, taste, appearance and preparation of food
Example Titles
• Administrative Dietitian
• Clinical Dietitian
• Community Dietitian
• Nutrition and Dietetics Researcher
• Consultant Dietitian
• Dietitian
• Public Health Nutritionist
• Nutritionist
• Registered Dietitian (RD)
/Registered Nutritionist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Extended-Care Facilities
• Public Health Centres
• Food and Beverage Industry
• Educational Institutions
• Sports Organizations
• Government
• Self Employed
Training Needed
Dietitians:
• Require a master’s or bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition or a related field such as
food and nutritional science or biochemistry
• One to two years of supervised practical training
• Licensure with a regulatory body is required in all provinces for dietitians
• Membership in the national association, Dietitians of Canada, may be required
for dietitians
North Superior Training Board
31
www.nstb.on.ca
Nutritionists:
• Require the same education and training as dietitians
• Registration with the national association, Dietitians of Canada and/or a provincial
regulatory body is available for nutritionists who have the same education and practical
training as dietitians
• Dietitians and nutritionists may progress to management positions through additional
experience
Related Occupations
• Dietary Technicians
(in 3219 Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (except dental health))
• Director of dietetics (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $19.35/hr average
Employment Prospects
NA
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
70
55
10
1996
35
35
0
% change
100
57
0
Training and More Information
Dietitian/Nutritionist:
Regulatory Body: College of Dietitians of Ontario - www.cdo.on.ca
Professional Association: Dietitians of Canada - www.dietitians.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering a Registered Dietician or Nutritionist Program:
• Ryerson University, Bachelor’s Degree - http://www.ryerson.ca/foodandnutrition/
• University of Guelph, Bachelor’s Degree - http://www.uoguelph.ca
• University of Trent, Bachelor of Arts or Science - http://www.trentu.ca/foodemphasis/
• University of Guelph, Master of Applied Nutrition -
http://www.uoguelph.ca/graduatestudies
• University of Guelph, Master of Science in Applied Human Nutrition -
http://www.uoguelph.ca/graduatestudies/
• University of Toronto, Master of Health Science - http://www.sgs.utoronto.ca/
Note: Nutritionist - In Ontario, the term “nutritionist” is an unprotected title that can be
used by anyone to describe their involvement in a food-related practice.
32
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3141
Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
Job Description
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists diagnose, evaluate and treat human
communication disorders including hearing, speech, language and voice disorders.
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are employed in hospitals, community
and public health centres, extended care facilities, day clinics, rehabilitation centres and
educational institutions, or may work in private practice.
Audiologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Administer audiometric tests and examinations to diagnose and evaluate the degree
and type of patients’ hearing impairment
• Plan and implement habilitation/rehabilitation programs for patients, including
selection, fitting and adjustment of hearing aid devices, teaching speech (lip) reading
and providing counseling
• Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
• Conduct research related to hearing
• May instruct students and other health care personnel
Speech-language pathologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Administer tests and examinations and observe patients to diagnose and evaluate
speech, voice, resonance, language, cognitive-linguistic and swallowing disorders
• Plan and implement remedial programs to correct speech, language and voice disorders
• Establish group and personalized care plans working as a member of an
interdisciplinary team
• Conduct research on speech and other communication disorders and on the
development and design of diagnostic procedures and devices
• May instruct students and other health care personnel
Example Titles
• Audiologist
• Certified Audiologist
• Clinical Audiologist
• Educational Audiologist
• Research Audiologist
• Speech Therapist
• Speech-language Clinician
• Speech-language Pathologist
Work Environment
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Hospitals
• Universities
• Independent/Private Practices
• Industry
• Audiology Clinics
• Long-term Care Centres
• Preschool/School Programs
• Health Units
• Children’s Treatment Centres
• Speech-Language
Pathology Clinics
North Superior Training Board
“Currently audiologists and pathologists are experiencing good employment opportunities.”
Duties
33
www.nstb.on.ca
Betty DeKraker
Occupational Title: Audiologist • Years in Career: 14
Training: BA, BSc
An availability of jobs and the highly technical and challenging nature of health care were both
factors that inspired Betty to become an Audiologist.
In terms of the skills, abilities, and personality traits Betty feels are essential for an individual to
be a successful Audiologist, “good interpersonal skills, being comfortable with computers and
technical devices, good problem-solving skills, and good decision-making and counselling
skills” are all highly important.
What does Betty like best about being an Audiologist in Northwestern Ontario? Well she had
this to say: “I prefer Northwestern Ontario to other parts of the country in which I worked due to
lifestyle opportunities. I prefer the smaller city with access to outdoor activities, no issues with
traffic, and accessibility to larger centres when necessary.”
Words of Wisdom
“Health care, I think, is a constantly changing area and becoming more and more advanced in
terms of technology. One must be willing to constantly upgrade one’s self to stay current in his/
her chosen field. Audiology is no exception. As our population ages, the need for audiologists
will continue to grow; so work opportunities will always be present.”
Training Needed
• Audiology requires a Master’s degree in audiology available at the University of
Western Ontario and University of Ottawa (French Program)
• Speech-language pathology requires a Master’s degree in speech-language pathology
available at the University of Western Ontario, University of Toronto, and University of
Ottawa (French Program)
• In Ontario, audiologists and speech language pathologists are regulated by the
College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario
• Voluntary membership to the Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists
and Audiologists gives access to the certification program
• Progression into management positions such as chief audiologist or director of
speech-language pathology is possible with experience
Related Occupations
• Audiology and speech-language technical and assisting occupations
(in 3235 Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
• Phoniatricians (in 3111 Specialist Physicians)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $21.20/hr average
34
www.nstb.on.ca
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to increase more rapidly than the average
for all occupations through the year 2009. Currently audiologists and pathologists are
experiencing good employment opportunities. Employment opportunities should remain
North Superior Training Board
good over the forecast period. Demographic shifts towards an aging population as well as
early intervention initiatives will continue to lead to increased demands for audiologists
and speech-language pathologists.
For reimbursement of the services, the recent changes to OHIP funding require
Audiologists to become associated with an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist or a
physician. Otherwise, excepted for standard hearing tests, audiologists charge their
clients directly for any procedures or intervention. Speech-language pathologists tend to
be self-employed, working on a contact basis with hospitals and school boards.
Unemployed
2001
65
65
10
1996
25
25
0
% change
160
160
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Audiologists & Speech, Language Pathologists of Ontario - www.caslpo.com
Professional Association:
• Ontario Association of Speech, Language Pathologists and Audiologists
- http://www.osla.on.ca/
• Canadian Association of Speech, Language Pathologists and Audiologists
- http://www.caslpa.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology:
• University of Ottawa (French Program), Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
- http://www.grad.uottawa.ca/programs/
• University of Western Ontario, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
- http://www.uwo.ca/fhs/
• University of Toronto, only Speech-Language Pathology - http://www.slp.utoronto.ca
Betty DeKraker , BA, BSc
Employed
“...for an individual to be a successful Audiologist, “good interpersonal skills, being
comfortable with computers and technical devices, good problem-solving skills, and
good decision-making and counselling skills” are all highly important. “
Census Labour Force Data
Total
35
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3142
Physiotherapists
Job Description
Physiotherapists assess patients and plan and carry out individually designed treatment
programs to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain and prevent
physical dysfunctioning in patients.
Duties
Paolo Sanzo
“...’Good communication skills, comfort in working as part of a team, and life-long interest
in learning’ are essential for an individual to be successful in Physiotherapy.”
Physiotherapists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Assess patients’ physical abilities through evaluative procedures such as functional
ability tests
• Establish treatment goals with the patient based on physical diagnoses
• Plan and implement programs of physiotherapy including therapeutic exercise,
manipulations, massage, education, the use of electro-therapeutic and other mechanical
equipment and hydro-therapy
• Evaluate effectiveness of treatment plans and modify accordingly
• Communicate with referring physician and other healthcare professionals regarding
patients’ problems, needs and progress
• Maintain clinical and statistical records and confer with other health care professionals
• Develop and implement health promotion programs for patients, staff and the
community
• May conduct research in physiotherapy
• May provide consulting or education services
Example Titles
• Physical Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Registered Physiotherapist
• Research Physiotherapist
Work Environment
• Private Practice
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Industry
• Sports Organizations
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Extended Care Facilities
Training Needed
• A university degree in physiotherapy and a period of supervised practical training
are required
• Entrance requirements vary from university to university
• Successful completion of the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) is required
for licensing
• In Ontario, individuals must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists
36
www.nstb.on.ca
of Ontario in order to use the title “Registered Physiotherapist” and to practice
as a physiotherapist
North Superior Training Board
Paolo Sanzo
Occupational Title: Physiotherapist • Years in Career: 14
Training: Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
Paolo entered the field of physiotherapy because he expressed a keen “interest in health
care.” We asked Paolo what he thought the essential skills, abilities, and personality traits
are to produce a successful professional in Physiotherapy. What was Paolo’s response?
“Good communication skills, comfort in working as part of a team, and life-long interest in
learning” are essential for an individual to be successful in Physiotherapy.
As with other professions, there are unique aspects to practicing in Northwestern Ontario.
We asked Paolo what he thought was a positive aspect of practicing Physiotherapy in the
Thunder Bay and region area.
Paolo indicated that what he liked best about practicing Physiotherapy in Northwestern
Ontario is “seeing a variety of different diseases and injuries, and a different socioeconomic
and multicultural patient population.” When asked about how practicing Physiotherapy
differs in our region in comparison to other parts of Ontario, Paolo indicated that practicing
in Northwestern can be more challenging when trying to stay up-to-date on the latest
information because of the difficulty in distance from larger centres where post-graduate
courses are offered” resulting in a “greater cost involved” if one wants to take postgraduate courses.
Related Occupations
• Directors of physiotherapy (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
• Physical Rehabilitation Technicians
(in 3235 Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $31.95/ hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for
all occupations through the year 2009. Currently physiotherapists are experiencing good
employment opportunities. Employment opportunities should remain good over the
forecast period. The demand for physiotherapists is related to the ageing population and
increased attention to the needs of disabled persons and accident victims. The impact of
Ontario government legislation in 2004 to discontinue payment for physiotherapy services,
with the exception of seniors serviced through home care and long-term care facilities,
may adversely affect the job market for physiotherapists in the short-term. However, over
the long run, the demand for physiotherapists should continue to rise in response to the
needs for physiotherapy treatment of a growing and ageing population.
Employment opportunities will be better in private practices outside of the institutional
health care setting.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
95
85
0
1996
105
105
0
% change
-10
-19
0
North Superior Training Board
37
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Physiotherapists of Ontario - www.collegept.org
Professional Association: Ontario Physiotherapy Association - www.opa.on.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering Physiotherapy Programs:
• McMaster University - http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/rehab
• Queen’s University - http://www.rehab.queensu.ca
• University of Toronto - http://www.utoronto.ca/pt/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/fhs
38
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3143
Occupational Therapist
Job Description
Occupational therapists develop individual and group programs with people affected by
illness, injury, developmental disorders, emotional or psychological problems and ageing
to maintain, restore or increase their ability to care for themselves and to engage in work,
school or leisure. They also develop and implement health promotion programs with
individuals, community groups and employers.
Duties
Occupational therapists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Analyze clients’ capabilities and expectations related to life activities through
observation, interview and formal assessments
• Develop intervention programs to address client’s needs related to self-care, work and
leisure activities
• Maintain client records
• Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
• Consult and advise on health promotion programs to prevent disabilities and to
maximize independent function in all activities of life
• May supervise support personnel and students and provide training
Example Titles
• Clinical Occupational Therapist
• Community Occupational Therapist
• Occupational Therapist (O.T.)
• Occupational Therapist, Case Manager
• Occupational Therapist, Research and Development
• Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Consultant
Work Environment
• Health Care Facilities
• Self-employed
• Private and Social Services Agencies
• Schools
Training Needed
• A bachelor of science in occupational therapy, including a minimum of 1000 hours of
supervised field work experience (on-the-job training)
• Completion of the national certification examination are required
• Occupational rehabilitation requires a Master’s degree in rehabilitation for those who
already had the entry to practice credentials
• The accreditation standards set by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists
(CAOT) accepts the baccalaureate degree in occupational therapy as the minimal
educational requirement for entry-level education in Canada
• Licensure or registration by the Province of Ontario and the College of Occupational
Therapists of Ontario is required
• Occupational therapists may progress to management or administrative positions
through further training and experience
North Superior Training Board
39
www.nstb.on.ca
Related Occupations
• Directors of Occupational Therapy (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $22.05/hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
Over the next two years some opportunities for occupational therapists are expected in
the Thunder Bay area.
Employment for this occupation is expected to increase rapidly than the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. Currently occupational therapists are experiencing
good employment opportunities. Employment opportunities should remain good over the
forecast period. An ageing population and increased attention to the needs of disabled
persons and accident victims will be contributing factors to employment growth. As well,
job growth has been influenced by increasing acceptance of rehabilitation as a practical
alternative to long-term care in institutions.
Employment opportunities will be better in private practices outside of the institutional
health care setting.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
60
60
0
1996
105
105
0
% change
-43
-43
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario - www.coto.org
Professional Association: Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists - http://www.osot.on.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering Occupational Therapy:
• McMaster University - http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/rehab/programs/mscot.html
• Queen’s University - http://www.rehab.queensu.ca/prosp_MSc_OT_Stream1.html
• University of Toronto - http://www.ot.utoronto.ca/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/fhs
40
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3144
Other Professional Occupations in Therapy and Assessment
Job Description
This unit group includes specialized therapists not elsewhere classified who use
techniques such as art, athletic, dance, music or recreational therapy or remedial
gymnastics to aid in the treatment of mental and physical disabilities.
Duties
Therapists and other professionals in this unit group perform some or all of the
following duties:
• Assess patients and review reports from physicians, psychiatrists, counsellors, teachers
and others to determine patients’ current and potential functioning level
• Prepare individualized and group treatment plans either independently or through an
interdisciplinary team approach
• Implement treatment plan by carrying out specialized therapy sessions employing
techniques such as art, athletic, dance, music or recreational therapy or remedial
gymnastics
• Observe and analyze patients during treatment sessions
• Record observations, write progress reports and consult with other health care
professionals to evaluate treatment plan
• Initiate, design and implement specialized therapy programs for the general patient
population or in the community
• May conduct research in respective field of specialization
Example Titles
• Art Therapist
• Art Therapy Consultant
• Athletic Therapist
• Dance Therapist
• Movement Therapist
• Music Therapist
• Music Therapy Researcher
• Recreational Therapist
• Remedial Gymnast
• Dance-movement Therapy Researcher
Work Environment
• Clinics
• Private Practice
• Day-care Facilities
• Prisons
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Recreational Centres
• Nursing Homes
• Educational Institutions
Training Needed
• Athletic therapists usually require a bachelor’s degree in sport studies or exercise
science with a specialization in athletic therapy or a college program in sports
injury management
• Art therapists require a graduate degree in art therapy
• Dance therapists require a bachelor’s degree in psychology or dance/movement therapy
or an approved graduate program in dance/ movement therapy
• Music therapists usually require a bachelor’s degree in music therapy
North Superior Training Board
41
www.nstb.on.ca
• Recreational therapists usually require a bachelor’s degree or college program in
recreation with a specialization in therapeutic recreation
• Remedial gymnasts require completion of an approved college program in remedial
gymnastics
• Supervised practical training is usually required for occupations in this unit group
• Creative or technical ability in the field of specialization is usually required
• Certification or membership with the appropriate national professional association or
provincial counterpart may be required
Related Occupations
• Exercise Therapists
(in 4167 Recreation, Sports and Fitness Program Supervisors and Consultants)
• Occupational Therapists (3143)
• Physiotherapists (3142)
• Technical assistants in therapy and assessment
(in 3235 Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $19.00/hr average
Employment Prospects
NA
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
15
15
0
1996
0
0
0
% change
-
0
0
Training and More Information
Universities in Ontario Offering:
Art Therapy:
• The University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca
Music Therapy:
• Wilfrid Laurier University, Bachelor’s Degree - www.wlu.ca/index.pho
• University of Windsor- Bachelor’s Degree - http://www.uwindsor.ca/units/music/Music.
nsf/inToc/4290F096EB0613F985256FD60055F6DF
Athletic Therapy:
• Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Bachelor’s Degree -
http://www.sheridanc.on.ca/programs03_04/
• York University - Bachelor of Physical Education, Athletic Therapy -
http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb
42
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3151
Head Nurses and Supervisors
Job Description
Head nurses and supervisors supervise and co-ordinate the activities of registered
nurses, licensed practical nurses and other nursing personnel in the provision of patient
care. They are employed in health care institutions such as hospitals, clinics and nursing
homes and in nursing agencies.
Duties
Head nurses and supervisors perform some or all of the following duties:
• Set up and co-ordinate nursing services in conjunction with other health services
• Ensure quality nursing care is provided and appropriate administrative procedures
are followed
• Assist in the establishment of unit policies and procedures
• Administer nursing unit budget and ensure that supplies and equipment are available
• Assist in the selection, evaluation and professional development of nursing personnel
• Collaborate on research projects related to nursing and medical care and
multidisciplinary services
• May provide direct patient care
Example Titles
• Head Nurse
• Nursing Care Co-ordinator
• Nursing Supervisor
• Patient Care Co-ordinator
• Psychiatric Nursing Supervisor
• Public Health Nursing Supervisor
Training Needed
• Completion of a university, college or other approved registered nursing program
is required
• Courses in management studies such as the Nursing Unit Administration Course
offered by the Canadian Hospital Association or other degree, diploma, certificate
or studies in management or administration may be required
• Registration as a registered nurse by a provincial or territorial regulatory body
• Clinical experience as a registered nurse is required
• Progression to management positions, such as director of nursing, is possible
with experience
Related Occupations
• Directors of nursing and nursing unit administrator
“A career in health care offers a huge number of possibilities, and opens up so many
doors for different career paths and travel.”
• Evaluate patients’ needs and ensure that required nursing care is delivered
Nancy Robertson, BScN, MScN
• Supervise registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and other nursing personnel
(in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $24.25/hr average
North Superior Training Board
43
www.nstb.on.ca
Nancy Robertson
Occupational Title: Manager, Occupation Health and Infection Control • Years in Career: 2
Training: BScN, Registered Nurse, MScN
Nancy’s inspiration to become a Manager in Occupational Health and Infection Control
stemmed from wanting “different professional challenges” and her current position was
“available and offered training and education, relocation assistance and a decent salary.”
“Leadership skills, conflict management and resolution, being a strong advocate for nursing,”
as well as having “the ability to handle many priorities and juggle them successfully” in a
small hospital are all crucial skills and abilities in Nancy’s view that make a successful
professional in her field.
What are Nancy’s views on working in Northwestern Ontario? Nancy said: “I like the bird’s
eye view of health care that I get from working in a small hospital. Instead of being very
focused on one particular area, I am involved in a wide range of activities. There are
opportunities to be involved in many professional opportunities both within the facility and
in the region. In southern Ontario, these opportunities would be limited simply because of
the number of professionals available. The one thing that I find different here is the lack of
resources, or difficulty accessing the resources available, simply due to distance and the
cost of travel.”
Words of Wisdom
“A career in health care offers a huge number of possibilities, and opens up so many doors
for different career paths and travel. Nursing specifically has been a very rewarding career
for me over the past ten years. Infection control and occupational health and safety are both
extremely important to the future direction for health care and are challenging but rewarding
career choices.”
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
The work prospects for nursing supervisors is rated Good. The employment growth
rate will likely be above average. The increase in new job creation will likely continue
because of ongoing trends - a growing and aging population that requires increased
health services and increased government funding for health care. The retirement rate
will likely be average, and the number of retiring workers should contribute to the number
of job openings. The number of recent graduates/immigrants will likely not fill the number
of job openings.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
30
30
0
1996
100
95
0
% change
-70
-68
0
Training and More Information
44
www.nstb.on.ca
Regulatory Body: College of Nurses of Ontario - www.cno.org
Professional Association: Registered Nurses Association of Ontario - www.rnao.org
North Superior Training Board
Universities offering Nursing:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://nursing.lakeheadu.ca/index.php
In the Rest of Ontario:
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/nursing.pdf
• McMaster University -
http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/nursing/education/undergrad/undergradadmissions.htm
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/nursing/
• Trent University - http://www.trentu.ca/calendar/uc29.html
• University of Ottawa - http://www.health.uottawa.ca/sn/index.htm
• University of Toronto - http://www.nursing.utoronto.ca/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/
• University of Windsor Ontario - http://www.uwindsor.ca/nursing
• York University - http://www.atkinson.yorku.ca/NURS/
Nancy Robertson, BScN, MScN
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/nursing/
“‘Leadership skills, conflict management and resolution, being a strong advocate for
nursing,’ as well as having ‘the ability to handle many priorities and juggle them successfully’
in a small hospital are all crucial skills...”
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/nursing/
45
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3152
Registered Nurses
Job Description
This unit group includes registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses and graduates
of a nursing program who are awaiting registration (graduate nurses). They provide direct
nursing care to patients, deliver health education programs and provide consultative
services regarding issues relevant to the practice of nursing.
Sally Ten Hoeve, BScN
“...an individual needs to ‘like change, have the ability to facilitate growth, be open to new
ideas, and enjoy teaching’ in order to be successful in her health care occupation.”
Duties
46
www.nstb.on.ca
General duty registered nurses, as well as other nurses listed below, perform some or all
of the following duties:
• Assess patients to identify appropriate nursing interventions
• Collaborate with members of an interdisciplinary health team to plan, implement,
co-ordinate and evaluate patient care in consultation with patients and their families
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by a physician or according to
establish policies and protocols
• Monitor, assess, address, document and report symptoms and changes in patients’ conditions
• Operate or monitor medical apparatus/equipment, as well as assist in surgery and
other medical procedures
• May supervise licensed practical nurses and other nursing staff
• May develop and implement discharge planning process on admission of patients
• May teach/counsel patients and families on health-related issues in collaboration with
other health care providers
• Occupational health nurses develop and implement employee health education
programs and provide registered nursing care in private businesses and industry
• Community health nurses provide health education and registered nursing care in
public health units and through home visits, manage complex home care cases,
participate in community needs assessment and program development, conduct
disease screening and deliver immunization programs
• Psychiatric nurses provide nursing care, supportive counselling and life skills
programming to patients in psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, long-term care
and community-based settings
• Nursing consultants provide consultative services to institutes, associations and health
care organizations regarding issues and concerns relevant to the nursing profession and
nursing practice
• Nursing researchers engage in research activities related to nursing are self-employed
or are employed by hospitals, public and private organizations and governments
• Clinical nurses provide leadership, advice and counsel on the provision of research-
based care for specific patient groups within the care of particular health care organizations
Example Titles
• Community Health Nurse
• Clinical Nurse
• Critical Care Nurse
• Graduate Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner
• Intensive Care Nurse
• Occupational Health Nurse
• Registered Nurse (R.N.)
• Private Duty Nurse
• Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN)
• Nurse Researcher/Nurse Consultant
North Superior Training Board
Sally Ten Hoeve
Occupational Title: Telehealth Co-ordinator/Staff Educator • Years in Career: 2
Training: BScN, Registered Nurse
Sally entered the Telehealth Co-ordinator and Staff Educator position at the request of a
superior to fill the need in the area. In her position, Sally believes that an individual needs to
“like change, have the ability to facilitate growth, be open to new ideas, and enjoy teaching”
in order to be successful in her health care occupation.
Practicing her occupation in Northwestern Ontario, Sally “enjoys advocating for her clients.”
When asked what she likes best about practicing her health care occupation here in
Northwestern Ontario, Sally responded: “In my job, there is the opportunity to participate in
patient consults and I always look out for what is best for my clients.”
Words of Wisdom
“Go into a nursing career only if you like the job; don’t go in for the paycheque. The rewards
of a nursing job lie in the satisfaction of helping people.”
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Doctors’ Offices
• Community Agencies
• Self-employed
• Companies
• Private Homes
• Clinics
• Nursing Homes
• Extended-care Facilities
Training Needed
Registered Nurses:
• Completion of a university, college or other approved registered nursing program
is required
• Additional academic training or experience is required to specialize in a specific area
of nursing
• A master’s or doctoral degree in nursing is usually required for clinical nurse specialists,
clinical nurses, nursing consultants and nursing researchers
• Registration with a regulatory body is required in all provinces and territories
Registered Psychiatric Nurses:
• Completion of a college or other registered psychiatric nursing program is required
• Registration with a regulatory body is required in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and
British Columbia
• As of January 1, 2005, all new Ontario registered nurses must have a four-year bachelor
degree in nursing (BScN) which can be obtained either at a university alone or though a
collaborative program delivered jointly by a college and a university. (The BScN will not
be a requirement for nurses who are already practicing.) Nurse practitioners require a
master’s degree and experience
• Licensure to practice requires passing the Canadian Nursing Examination and
registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario. Nurses must renew their membership
on an annual basis
North Superior Training Board
47
www.nstb.on.ca
• Employers are more likely to want a potential employee to have some related
experience before hiring
Additional Information:
• Nurses trained exclusively as registered psychiatric nurses (RPN) are recognized only in
Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. In all other provinces and
territories, registered nurses (RN) may work as psychiatric nurses without separate
registration
Related Occupations
• Registered Nurses may progress to supervisory and managerial positions
with experience
• Head Nurses and Supervisors (3151)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (3233)
• Nursing Service Managers (in 0311 Managers in Health Care)
• Registered Practical Nurses (in 3233 Licensed Practical Nurses)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $23.80/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay - Good
Over the next two years opportunities for registered nurses are expected to be good in
the Thunder Bay area.
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for
all occupations through the year 2009. Because of the large size of this occupational
group, many more job openings will be created over the medium term from the need to
replace workers who retire or leave. In addition to strong growth, recent changes
requiring all new registered nurses to have a four-year bachelor degree in nursing (BScN)
may curtail the number of new graduates. The Canadian Nurses Association predicts a
shortage of 59,000-113,000 nurses nationally (excluding Quebec) by 2011. To meet longer
term needs, the Government of Ontario has committed $10 million for PhD nursing
programs over four years starting in 2004-05 which will increase the supply of nurses with
PhDs and help educate the next generation of nurses.
Nurses’ roles will change as new technology continues to be introduced at the bedside
and as nurses are allowed to perform more advanced procedures. Restructuring of the
health care system, including specialization and the shift from institutional to home care
is also changing the locations of work, skills and requirements for nurses. Nurses are
encouraged to consider taking on additional training and qualifications, such as nurse
practitioner. Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have a master’s degree. They
provide basic primary health care that complements that provided by physicians, such as
diagnosing and treating common acute illnesses and injuries and prescribing medicine.
There is a province-wide shortage of nurses and, as the population ages over the coming
decades, the demands on all occupations tied to the health sector are likely to increase.
Census Labour Force Data
48
www.nstb.on.ca
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
1,810
1,775
35
1996
1,660
1,625
35
99
0
0
% change
North Superior Training Board
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Nurses of Ontario - www.cno.org
Professional Association: Registered Nurses Association of Ontario - www.rnao.org
Universities Offering Nursing:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://nursing.lakeheadu.ca/index.php
In the Rest of Ontario:
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/nursing.pdf
• McMaster University -
http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/nursing/education/undergrad/undergradadmissions.htm
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/nursing/
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/nursing/
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/nursing/
• Trent University - http://www.trentu.ca/calendar/uc29.html
• University of Ottawa - http://www.health.uottawa.ca/sn/index.htm
• University of Toronto - http://www.nursing.utoronto.ca/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/fhs/index2.html
• University of Windsor Ontario - http://www.uwindsor.ca/nursing
• York University - http://www.atkinson.yorku.ca/NURS/
49
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3211
Medical Laboratory Technologists and Pathologists’ Assistants
Job Description
Medical laboratory technologists conduct medical laboratory tests, experiments and
analyses to assist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. Pathologists’
assistants assist at autopsies and examinations of surgical specimens or perform
autopsies under a pathologist’s supervision. Medical laboratory technologists who
are also supervisors are included in this unit group.
Duties
Medical laboratory technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Conduct chemical analyses of blood, urine, cerebro-spinal and other body fluids
• Study blood cells and other tissue to determine their relation to various physiological
and pathological conditions
• Prepare tissue sections for microscopic examinations using techniques to demonstrate
special cellular tissue elements or other characteristics
• Establish procedures for the analysis of specimens and for medical laboratory
experiments
• Perform blood group, type and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes
• May supervise and train other medical laboratory technologists and other medical
laboratory workers
• May perform the duties of a pathologist’s assistant in some hospitals
Pathologists’ assistants perform some or all of the following duties:
• Prepare for autopsies by obtaining patients’ medical records and arranging for
radiographic examinations
• Assist with or perform autopsies and surgical specimen examinations under
pathologists’ supervision
• Dissect, examine, weigh and photograph organs and specimens, collect tissue
specimens for chemical analysis and record findings
• May prepare bodies for release to funeral homes following completion of autopsies
• May train junior resident pathologists and train and supervise morgue attendants
• May perform the duties of a medical laboratory technologist in some hospitals
Example Titles
• Clinical Immunology Technologist
• Cytology Technologist
• Cytotechnologist
• Immunohematology Technologist
• Histology Technologist
• Pathologist’s Assistant
• Medical Laboratory Technologist
Work Environment
50
www.nstb.on.ca
• Medical laboratories
• Hospitals
• Universities
• Private Clinics
• Research Institutions
North Superior Training Board
Training Needed
Medical laboratory technologists:
• Require a bachelor of science or medical laboratory science degree or a two or three-
year college program in medical laboratory technology and a period of supervised
practical training
• Registration with a regulatory body is required in Ontario
• Certification by the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science is available for
medical laboratory technologists and is usually required by employers
Pathologists’ Assistants:
• Require a bachelor of science degree or training and experience as a registered nurse,
licensed practical nurse or medical laboratory technologist and specialized
on-the-job training
• Certification by the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science may be required
for pathologists’ assistants
Related Occupations
• Medical Laboratory Technicians (3212)
• Physical and life science technologists in non-medical laboratories
(in 221 Technical Occupations in Physical Sciences and 222 Technical Occupations in
Life Sciences)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $27.70/hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Average
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for
all occupations through the year 2009 as the volume of laboratory tests increases with
population growth and the development of new types of tests. In addition, many job
openings will result from the need to replace workers who retire. According to the
Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science, approximately half of Canada’s
medical laboratory technologists are expected to retire within the next 13 years.
As well, more powerful new diagnostic techniques, such as DNA testing, will increase
the demand for medical technologists. On the other hand, automation of diagnostic
and treatment procedures may have an offsetting effect. In addition, the preparation
of specimens in high technology laboratories is increasingly being done with
computerized systems and robotics, which may moderate the demand for
laboratory technologists.
The rapid development of new medical technologies means that medical technologists
must continually update their skills.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
115
105
10
1996
145
135
10
% change
-21
-22
0
North Superior Training Board
51
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario - http://www.cmlto.com
Professional Association:
Ontario Society of Medical Technologists - http://www.osmt.org
Universities in Ontario Offering Medical Laboratory Technology Programs:
• Cambrian College - http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/_Our_Programs/Full-time_programs/
showpage.cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200509mlty.htm
• The Michener Institute of Applied Health Sciences - http://www.michener.ca/ft/medlab.php
• St. Clair College of Applied Arts & Sciences in Conjunction with University of Windsor http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/postsec/calendar2005-06/Health.
htm#MEDLABBSC
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0134.HTM
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology http://www.uoit.ca/EN/calendar/calendar_05_06/programs/43113/medical_lab_science_
133.html
52
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3212
Medical Laboratory Technicians
Job Description
Medical laboratory technicians conduct routine medical laboratory tests and set up,
clean and maintain medical laboratory equipment. They are employed in medical
laboratories in hospitals, clinics, research institutes and universities and in government
research laboratories.
Duties
Medical laboratory technicians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Collect blood or other samples from patients
• Receive tissues samples from patients
• Log patient samples and prepare them for testing
• Set up medical laboratory equipment
• Conduct routine laboratory tests and sample analyses
• Clean and maintain medical laboratory and medical laboratory equipment
Example Titles
• Medical Laboratory Aide
• Medical Laboratory Assistant
• Phlebotomist
• Phlebotomy Aide
• Medical Laboratory Technician
Work Environment
Medical laboratories in:
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Research Institutes
• Universities
• Government Research Laboratories
Training Needed
• Completion of secondary school and on-the-job training
or
• Completion of a 6- to 14-month program for medical laboratory technicians/assistants
is required
• Combined laboratory and X-ray technicians require completion of a combined
laboratory X-ray technology program
• Training as a licensed practical nurse, medical technician or in a related occupation is
usually required for phlebotomist or phlebotomy aides
Related Occupations
• Medical Laboratory Technologists and Pathologists’ Assistants (3211)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $16.75/hr average
North Superior Training Board
53
www.nstb.on.ca
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Average
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. While there have been major breakthroughs in
diagnostic techniques over the past several decades, the increased use of portable
laboratory instruments and testing kits, combined with the growth of shared laboratory
services among health care providers, will moderate future employment growth.
Workers in this occupation will need to keep up with the latest medical technologies.
Private clinics/laboratories will provide the best employment prospects.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
145
145
0
1996
90
90
0
% change
61
61
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario - www.cmlto.com
Professional Body: Ontario Society of Medical Technologists - http://www.osmt.org/
Universities Offering Medical Laboratory Technician Programs:
• St. Clair College in conjunction with University of Windsor
- http://www.stclairc.on.ca/programs/postsec/calendar2005-06/Health.htm#MEDLABT
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0734.HTM
54
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3213
Veterinary and Animal Health Technologists and Technicians
Job Description
Veterinary and animal health technologists and technicians provide technical support to
veterinarians by caring for animals and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of animal
health disorders. They are employed in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, animal
shelters, zoos, animal research laboratories, government and pharmaceutical companies.
Duties
Veterinary and animal health technologists and technicians perform some or all of the
following duties:
• Handle, restrain and care for animals undergoing treatment and surgery
• Produce radiographs, collect samples and perform other laboratory tests to assist in
diagnosis of animal health problems
• Assist veterinarian with animals before, during and following surgery, and by preparing
surgical equipment, administering and monitoring anaesthetics and cleaning-up
after surgery
• Prepare and administer medications and vaccines under direction of veterinarian
• Administer treatments as prescribed by a veterinarian
• Conduct specialized procedures such as animal identification and hoof trimming
• Counsel clients on animal health care
• Conduct and assist in laboratory research
Example Titles
• Animal Health Technician
• Animal Health Technologist
• Veterinary Assistant
• Laboratory Animal Technician
• Veterinary Technician
• Veterinary Technologist
Work Environment
• Veterinary Clinics
• Animal Hospitals
• Animal Shelters
• Animal Research Laboratories
• Government & PharmaceuticalCompanies
• Zoos
Training Needed
• Completion of a two or three-year animal health/veterinary technology college program
is required
• Successful completion of the Veterinary Technologist National Examination (VTNE) may
be required in some employment settings
• Registration with provincial animal health technologists’ or veterinary technicians’/
technologists’ associations is available, but voluntary in all provinces
• With experience, veterinary and animal health technologists and technicians may
progress to supervisory positions
Related Occupations
• Pet Groomers and Animal Care Workers (6483)
North Superior Training Board
55
www.nstb.on.ca
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $13.00/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
45
45
0
2001
1996
10
10
0
% change
350
350
0
Training and More Information
Professional Body:
Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians - http://www.oavt.org/colleges.htm
Universities in Ontario Offering Veterinary Technician Programs:
• St. Clair College - http://www.stclairc.on.ca
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/kingston
• Ridgetown College - http://www.ridgetownc.on.ca
• Northern College - http://www.northernc.on.ca
• College Boreal (New Liskeard Campus) - http://www.borealc.on.ca
• College Boreal (Alfred Campus) - http://www.alfredc.uoguelph.on.ca
• Georgian College - http://www.georgianc.on.ca/orillia
• Algonquin College - http://www.algonquincollege.com
56
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3214
Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and
Cardio-Pulmonary Technologists
Job Description
Respiratory therapists assist physicians in the diagnosis, treatment and care of patients
with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. Clinical perfusionists provide technical
support to patients undergoing cardiac surgery and patients requiring cardio-respiratory
support. Cardiopulmonary technologists assist physicians in the technical aspects of
diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease. Supervisors and
instructors of respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary
technologist are included in this unit group.
Duties
Respiratory therapists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Perform diagnostic tests, such as arterial blood gas analysis and cardiopulmonary
functions tests
• Operate and monitor respiratory equipment to administer treatments such, as oxygen,
oxygen-air mixtures, humidified air or medications, as well as a variety of diagnostic
and therapeutic equipment
• Assess patients and perform or assist with interventions such as airway maintenance,
line insertions, inductions and intubations
• Perform artificial respiration and external cardiac massage and assist with transport of
high-risk patients
• Supervise and train students and other respiratory therapists
• Participate in home care programs for chronic respiratory patients and provide patient
and family education
• Participate in research related to cardiac and pulmonary disorders
Clinical perfusionists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Assemble, maintain and operate extracorporeal circulation equipment, intra-aortic
balloon pumps and other heart assist devices to support or temporarily replace patients’
cardiopulmonary functions during open-heart surgery
• Administer blood products, drugs and other substances through heart-lung machines
and other devices as directed by cardiac surgeons and anaesthetists
• Monitor vital signs to maintain patients’ physiological functions during
cardiopulmonary surgery
• Supervise and train student clinical perfusionists and other clinical perfusionists
Cardiopulmonary technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Perform diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function and asthma stress, or assist
physicians with cardiac and cardiopulmonary stress tests and bronchoscopies
• Determine patients’ blood characteristics such as activated clotting time and
oxygen saturation
• Operate, monitor, maintain, calibrate and test diagnostic and therapeutic equipment
• Monitor patient and advise physician of any changes in patient condition
• Prepare medications and administer inhaler and other treatments under supervision
of cardiologist
• Provide information and care for patients during tests
North Superior Training Board
57
www.nstb.on.ca
• Assist with the preparation of cardiac catheterization room, prepare specialized
catheters and assist cardiologists during catheterization
• Perform analysis, programming and monitoring of implanted devices such as
pacemakers and defibrillators during surgery
• Supervise and train students and other cardiopulmonary technologists, as well as
provide technical support for research
Example Titles
• Cardiovascular Perfusion Supervisor
• Cardiopulmonary Technologist
• Respiratory Therapist
• Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP)
• Cardiovascular Perfusionist
• Clinical Perfusionist
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
• Chief Respiratory Technologist
• Perfusionist
• Respiratory Therapy Clinical Instructor
Work Environment
• Respiratory Home Care Companies
• Extended-care Facilities
• Hospitals
• Public Health Centres
• Medical Clinics
• Health Units
Training Needed
• Respiratory therapists require the completion of a two- to three-year college,
hospital or university degree program in respiratory therapy, including
clinical training
• Clinical perfusionists require the completion of a respiratory therapy or registered
nursing program with a minimum of one year of work experience as a respiratory
therapist or registered nurse and completion of a college or university program in
clinical perfusion, including clinical training
• Cardiopulmonary technologists require a minimum of a diploma in an allied health
discipline such as respiratory therapy, nursing diploma or degree, or a degree in a
related science and training through a post-diploma program or supervised on-the-job
clinical training
• Licensing is required for respiratory therapists in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba
and Alberta
• Registration with the Canadian Association of Cardio-Pulmonary Technologists
(C.A.C.P.T.) may be required
• Supervisory and instructor positions in this unit group require experience in their
respective fields as a respiratory therapist, clinical perfusionist or cardiopulmonary
technologist
Related Occupations
• Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health) (3219)
• Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment (3235)
General Wage
58
www.nstb.on.ca
Thunder Bay & Region - $26.65/hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
North Superior Training Board
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. The potential increase in cardiopulmonary diseases
due to an ageing population and technological advances in treatment will increase the
demand for respiratory therapists. Changes to licencing requirements in Ontario that
require all new graduates to write special exams and existing workers to be randomly retested may constrain the supply of new professionals in the future; even as demand for
these services increases. Workers in this occupation will need to keep up with the latest
medical technologies. Perfusion is in constant evolution. Clinical perfusionists are asked
to help develop new technologies to respond to the needs in cardiac surgeries.
Perfusionists are more and more involved in research as well.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
15
15
0
1996
25
25
0
% change
-40
-40
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario - www.crto.on.ca
Professional Association:
Respiratory Therapy Society of Ontario - www.rtso.org
Universities in Ontario Offering Respiratory Therapy Programs:
Algonquin College
- http://www.algonquincollege.com/acad_menus/current/0606X1FWO.html
Canadore College
- http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/HealthSciences/040301.cfm
Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/rst2.asp
La Cité Collegial - http://www.lacitec.on.ca/prog_cours/pdf/guide/gp0607/1080.pdf
The Michener Institute of Applied Health Sciences
- http://www.michener.ca/ft/respiratorytherapy.php
59
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3215
Medical Radiation Technologists
Job Description
This unit group includes technologists who operate radiographic and radiation therapy
equipment to administer radiation treatment and produce images of body structures for
the diagnosis and treatment of injury and disease. Medical radiation technologists who
are supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group.
Duties
Radiological technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Operate X-ray, radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, computerized tomography
(CT) scanners, mammography units and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners
to produce radiographs or anatomic images of the human body for the diagnosis by
radiologists of disease or injury
• Record and process patient data
• Perform basic verification and quality control checks on radiographic and film
processing equipment
• Provide appropriate care for the patient during radiographic exams and apply radiation
protection measures
• May train and supervise student radiographers or supervise other radiological
technologists
Nuclear medicine technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Prepare radiopharmaceuticals, such as radionuclides and other materials and
administer them to patients or to biological samples
• Operate radiation detection equipment, such as gamma cameras, scanners, scintillation
counters, tomodensitomiters and ionization chambers, to acquire data for use by
nuclear medicine physicians in the diagnosis of disease
• Perform diagnostic procedures using radioactive materials on biological specimens,
such as blood, urine and faeces
• Record and process results of procedures, as well as check equipment to ensure
proper operation
• Provide appropriate care for the patient during the examination
• May train and supervise student nuclear medicine technologists or supervise other
nuclear medicine technologists
Radiation therapists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Operate linear accelerators, cobalt 60, X-ray and other radiation therapy equipment to
administer radiation treatment prescribed by radiation oncologists
• Check radiation therapy equipment to ensure proper operation
• Assist radiation oncologists and clinical physicists with preparation of radiation
treatment plan
• Assist in the preparation of sealed radioactive materials such as cobalt, radium, cesium
60
www.nstb.on.ca
and isotopes and the construction of devices such as plaster casts and acrylic moulds
to assist with administration of radiation treatment
• Monitor the patient’s physical and psychological well-being during the entire course
of treatment
North Superior Training Board
• Advise the patient regarding side effects of radiation
• May train and supervise student radiotherapy technologists or supervise other
radiotherapy technologists
Example Titles
• Clinical instructor, Radiation Therapy
• Mammography Technician
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Radiation Therapist
• Radiation Oncology Technologist
• Radiological Technologist
• Radiation Therapy Technologist (RTT)
• Radiotherapy Technician
• Supervisor, Nuclear Medicine Technologists • X-ray Technician
• Hospitals
• Cancer Treatment Centres
• Clinics
• Radiological
• Laboratories
Training Needed
• Completion of a two- to three-year college, hospital school or other approved program
in diagnostic radiography (for radiological technologists), nuclear medicine technology
(for nuclear medicine technologists) or radiation therapy (for radiation therapists)
OR
• A bachelor of health sciences in radiography, nuclear medicine or radiation therapy and
a period of supervised practical training are required
• Licensure with a regulatory body is required in all provinces
• Certification by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists is required
in all provinces except Quebec
• Experience as a medical radiation technologist is required for supervisors and instructors
• There is no mobility between the three types of medical radiation technologists without
further training
Related Occupations
• Other medical technologists and technicians
(in 3210 Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health))
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $22.75/hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for
all occupations through the year 2009. Increases in illnesses associated with an ageing
population should increase the demand for workers in this occupation. As well,
innovations in the use of nuclear medicine to diagnose illnesses, such as cancer, may
increase demand for these professionals. However, overall demand for these
technologists depends on the extent of government funding for new technologies and
cancer centres.
Technological change, in particular the introduction of sophisticated imaging
technologies, will create new skill requirements in the field.
North Superior Training Board
“...the introduction of sophisticated imaging technologies, will create new skill
requirements in the field.”
Work Environment
61
www.nstb.on.ca
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
105
105
0
1996
95
95
0
% change
11
11
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario - www.cmrto.org
Professional Association:
Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Technologists - www.oamrt.on.ca
Universities Offering Medical Radiation Technology Programs:
Locally:
• Confederation College - http://www.confederationc.on.ca/medicalradiation/
In Ontario:
• Mohawk College - http://hshs.mohawkcollege.ca/MedRadSci/
• Cambrian College
- http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/Our_Programs/Full-time_programs/showpage.
cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200509rdpg.htm
• College Boreal, French
- http://www.borealc.on.ca/index.asp?ref=255&prog=29
EasternSchool of X-Ray Technology in conjunction with Queen’s University
- http://www.kgh.kari.net/kgh/School%20X-Ray9900.html
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/mrt1.asp
• The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences - http://www.michener.ca/lrc/lrcradio.php
62
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3216
Medical Sonographers
Job Description
Medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of
various parts of the body to aid physicians in monitoring pregnancies and in diagnosing
cardiac, ophthalmic, vascular and other medical disorders. Medical sonographers who are
supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group.
Duties
Medical sonographers perform some or all of the following duties:
• Operate ultrasound imaging equipment that transmits high frequency sound pulses
through the body to produce images of those parts of the body requiring examination
• Monitor examination by viewing images on video screen, to evaluate quality and
consistency of diagnostic images, and make adjustments to equipment, as required
• Record, store and process scanned images by using camera unit connected to
ultrasound equipment
• Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure patient safety
and comfort
• Prepare examination reports for physicians to aid in the monitoring of pregnancies and
the diagnosis of cardiac, abdominal, ophthalmic, vascular and other disorders
• Perform quality control checks on ultrasound equipment to ensure proper operation and
perform minor repairs and adjustments as required
• May supervise and train student and other medical sonographers
Example Titles
• Diagnostic Medical Sonography Instructor
• Medical Sonographer
• Medical Sonographers Supervisor
• Ultrasound Technologist
• Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
Work Environment
• Clinics
• Hospitals
Training Needed
• Completion of a training program in a related field such as diagnostic radiography,
nuclear medicine or nursing and completion of a one-year college or hospital-based
program in diagnostic medical sonography and supervised practical training
are required
• Certification examinations by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical
Sonographers are usually required by employers
• Registration with the Canadian Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or a
provincial counterpart is available and may be required by employers
• The Canadian Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers recognizes the certifying
examinations of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Related Occupations
• Other technologists and technicians who operate diagnostic medical equipment
(in 3218 Electroencephalographic and Other Diagnostic Technologists, n.e.c.)
North Superior Training Board
63
www.nstb.on.ca
Linda Carlson
Occupational Title: Radiographer, Sonographer • Years in Career: 17
Training: MRT (R), RDMS
For Linda Carlson, being a radiographer and sonographer has provided “the perfect blend
of art and science,” while allowing her to have the “satisfaction of helping others.”
In Linda’s view, the successful professional in her area would be independent, adaptable,
accountable, respectful, and committed to lifelong learning.
“...’being in a small hospital we have a close knit group of co-workers and a good
working relationship with physicians. We know most patients well and really feel we
are contributing to their better health.’”
Linda Carlson, MRT (R), RDMS
What does Linda like best about working in Northwestern Ontario? Linda told us the
following: “being in a small hospital we have a close knit group of co-workers and a good
working relationship with physicians. We know most patients well and really feel we are
contributing to their better health.
Having two professions such as x-ray and ultrasound is more prevalent in small
Northwestern Ontario hospitals; each enhances the knowledge of the other and, therefore,
benefits the patients.”
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $28.50/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
30
30
0
1996
20
15
0
% change
50
100
0
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
The Ontario Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers - http://www.osdms.org/
Universities in Ontario that Offer Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs:
• Mohawk College in conjunction with McMaster University
- http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/diagnosticCardiacSonog.html
• The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences - http://www.michener.ca/lrc/lrcultra.php
64
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3217
Cardiology Technologists
Job Description
Cardiology technologists operate electrocardiogram and other electronic equipment
to record cardiac activity of patients to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of heart
disease. Cardiology technologists who are supervisors or instructors are included in
this unit group.
Duties
Cardiology technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Operate electrocardiogram and other electronic equipment to record cardiac activity
of patients
• Perform cardiovascular procedures and tests, such as electrocardiograms, exercise
tolerance tests, ambulatory monitoring and scanning of tapes, pacemaker analysis and
follow-up, and echocardiogram
• Record and assess cardiac activity and provide preliminary reports of tests
• Provide patients with care during procedures and tests
• Prepare reports for interpretation by cardiologists
• Reprogram pacemakers according to required standards
• Check cardiology equipment to ensure proper operation
• May analyze test and notify physician or other health care professionals
• May administer certain drugs under direct supervision of physician
• May document and record pacemaker implant threshold measurements under direct
supervision of cardiac surgeon
• May supervise and train students, other cardiology technologists and nurses
Example Titles
• Cardiac Stress Technologist
• Cardiology Supervisor
• Cardiology Technologist
• Electrocardiography Technologist
• Electrocardiographic (ECG) Technologist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Clinics
Training Needed
• Completion of a two-year college diploma in cardiology technology and supervised
practical training are required
• Registration with the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologists is required in all
provinces except in Quebec
Related Occupations
• Cardiovascular Perfusionists (in 3214 Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and
Cardio-Pulmonary Technologists)
• Other Technologists and Technicians who operate diagnostic medical equipment
(in 3218 Electroencephalographic and Other Diagnostic Technologists, n.e.c.)
North Superior Training Board
65
www.nstb.on.ca
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $20.90/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
10
10
0
2001
1996
15
15
0
% change
-33
-33
0
Training and More Information
Professional Association: Ontario Society of Cardiologists - http://www.osct.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering a Cardiology Technologist Program:
• CDI College
- http://www.cdi.ca/main_programs.php?schoolProgram=Electrocardiography%20/%20
Holter%20Monitoring%20Technician&category=Health%20Care&page=Other%20Programs
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/cardioTechni.html
66
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3218
Electroencephalographic and Other Diagnostic Technologists, n.e.c.
Job Description
This unit group includes other diagnostic technologists not elsewhere classified who
operate electroencephalographic and other diagnostic equipment to assist physicians
in diagnosing diseases, injuries and abnormalities. Electroencephalographic and other
diagnostic technologists who are supervisors or instructors are included in this
unit group.
Duties
Electroencephalographic (EEG) technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Review patient’s case history and assess nature of problem to determine processes and
tests required
• Attach diagnostic equipment to patients and ensure patients’ comfort and safety
• Operate diagnostic equipment such as electroencephalographs and evoked potential
equipment to record the electrical activity of the brain, cranial and central nervous system
• Take notes on the recorded graph to identify interference such as poor electrode contact
or patient movement
• Prepare recordings and reports for interpretation by neurologists
• Check, calibrate and perform routine maintenance to diagnostic equipment
• Train and supervise students, technicians or other electroencephalographic technologists
Electromyography (EMG) technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Review patient’s case history and assess nature of problem to determine processes and
tests required
• Attach electromyographic equipment to patients and ensure patient’s comfort
and safety
• Operate electromyographic equipment to conduct electrophysiological nerve
conduction velocity tests and to assist physicians in conducting electrophysiological
tests such as muscle strength and repetitive stimulation
• Prepare recordings and reports of findings for physicians to aid in the diagnosis of
neuromuscular disorders
• Check, calibrate and perform routine maintenance of equipment
• Train and supervise students, technicians or other electromyography technologists
Example Titles
• Electroencephalographic (EEG) Technologist
• Electromyography (EMG) Technologist
• Electroneurodiagnostic (END) Technologist
• Electroneurophysiology (ENP) Technologist
• Evoked potential (EP) Technologist
• Neuroelectrophysiology Technologist
Work Environment
• Clinics
• Medical Laboratories
North Superior Training Board
• Hospitals
67
www.nstb.on.ca
Training Needed
• Completion of secondary school and additional specialized training is required for
electroencephalographic and other diagnostic technologists in this unit group
• Electroencephalographic technologists require completion of a two-year college or
hospital-based program in electrophysiology technology and supervised practical
training
• Registration with the Canadian Board of Electroencephalograph Technologists is
available for electroencephalographic technologists and is usually required by employers
• Electromyography technologists require two years of supervised practical training
• Registration with the Canadian Society of Clinical Neurophysiologists/EMG Section is
available for electromyography technologists and is usually required by employers
• Electroencephalographic technologists who operate evoked potential equipment may
require registration with the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic
and Evoked Potential Technologists
Related Occupations
• Cardiology Technologists (3217)
• Medical Radiation Technologists (3215)
• Medical Sonographers (3216)
• Other medical technologists
(in 3219 Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health))
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $22.60/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
10
10
0
2001
1996
15
15
0
% change
-33
-33
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
The Canadian Board of Registration of Electroencephalograph Technologists
- http://www.cbret.com/
Professional Association:
Canadian Assoc. of Electroneurophysiology Technologists
- http://www.caet.org/links.htm
Association of Electromyography Technologists of Canada - http://www.aetc.ca/
68
www.nstb.on.ca
Institutions in Ontario Offering EEG, EMG, ENP Programs:
• La Cite College - http://www.lacitec.on.ca/prog_cours/pdf/guide/gp0607/pg61.pdf
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3219
Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health)
Job Description
This unit group includes medical technologists and technicians not elsewhere classified,
such as dietary technicians, ocularists, prosthetists, orthotists, prosthetic technicians and
orthotic technicians.
Duties
The following is a summary of the main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Dietary technicians assist dietitians or nutritionists to plan and supervise food service
operations; plan menus and diet for individuals or groups under the direction of a
dietitian or nutritionist; assist in the supervision of personnel who prepare and serve
food; help patients select menu items; and assist dietitians with research in food,
nutrition and food service systems
• Ocularists design, fabricate and fit ocular prostheses and conformers, and may design
and fabricate implants; paint the iris and pupil of artificial eyes; clean and restore ocular
prostheses; advise patients concerning the loss of depth perception and the care and
use of ocular prostheses; repair and maintain fabrication and laboratory equipment; and
consult with ophthalmologists concerning insertion of ocular prostheses
• Prosthetists and orthotists design, fabricate and fit prosthetic and orthotic appliances
such as artificial limbs, braces or supports; interpret physicians’ specifications and
examine and measure patients to develop working sketches of appliances; make and
modify plaster casts of areas to receive prostheses or orthoses; fit, adjust and repair
appliances; advise patients in the use and care of prostheses and orthoses; and
supervise and direct the activities of prosthetic and orthotic technicians
• Prosthetic and orthotic technicians assemble or build prosthetic and orthotic appliances
according to drawings, measurements and plaster casts using a variety of materials
such as metals, plastics and leathers; repair, rebuild and modify prosthetic and orthotic
appliances or orthopaedic footwear; and may take the body or limb measurements
of patients
Example Titles
• Dietary Technician
• Food and Nutrition Technician
• Ocularist
• Ocularist Technician
• Orthotic Technician
• Orthotist
• Prosthetic Technician
• Prosthetist
Work Environment
Health care and commercial food service establishments:
• Self-employed
• Prosthetics and Orthotics Laboratories
• Hospitals
• Extended-care Facilities
• Nursing Homes
• Fast-food Outlets
• Custom Ocular Prosthetic
• Prosthetic Device Manufacturing
• Cafeterias
• Schools
Laboratories
Companies
Training Needed
• Dietary technicians require completion of a two- to three-year college program in
dietary technology and supervised practical training
North Superior Training Board
69
www.nstb.on.ca
• Ocularists require completion of the ocularist training program of the American Society
of Ocularists and supervised practical training or a five-year supervised practical
training program under a certified ocularist
• Certification by the National Examining Board of Ocularists is usually required
• Prosthetists and orthotists require a two-year college program in prosthetics and
orthotics technology and three years of supervised practical training
• Certification by the Canadian Board of Certification of Prosthetists and Orthotists
(CBCPO) may be required
• Prosthetic and orthotic technicians usually require a two- to three- year college program
in prosthetics and orthotics and one to two years of supervised practical training or
completion of secondary school and up to four years of supervised practical training
under a certified prosthetist or orthotist
• Registration with the Canadian Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (CAPO) may
be required
• Prosthetic and orthotic technicians may become certified prosthetists or orthotists with
an additional two years of experience as a registered prosthetic or orthotic technician
and completion of certification examinations by the Canadian Board of Certification of
Prosthetists and Orthotists
Related Occupations
• Other health care technologists and technicians
(in 321 Medical Technologists and Technicians (except Dental Health))
• Technologists or technicians in therapy and assessment
(in 3235 Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $19.65/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
10
10
0
1996
10
10
0
% change
0
0
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
Canadian Board for Certification of Prosthetists and Orthotists
- http://www.pando.ca/cbcpo.htm
Professional Body:
Canadian Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists - http://www.pando.ca/capo.htm
70
www.nstb.on.ca
Institutions in Ontario Offering Programs for Orthotic Technician:
George Brown College
• Post-secondary - http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S102.aspx#maincontent
• Post-graduate - http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S407.aspx#maincontent
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3221
Denturists
Job Description
Denturists examine patients and design, construct and repair removable dentures. Most
denturists work in private practice.
Duties
Denturists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Measure patients’ jaws to determine size and shape of dentures required
• Make impressions of patients’ teeth, gums and jaws
• Construct dentures or direct other workers to construct dentures
• Fit and modify new dentures
• Repair dentures
• Reline and rebase dentures
• Fabricate mouth protectors, anti-snoring prostheses and removable prostheses on implants
• May prepare partial dentures
Example Titles
• Dental Mechanic
• Denturist
• Denturologist
Training Needed
• Completion of a two- or three-year college program in denturism/denturology is required
• An internship in a registered denture clinic may be required
• Licensing by a provincial or territorial regulatory body is required except in Prince Edward Island
Related Occupations
• Dental Assistants (3411)
• Dental Technologists, Technicians and Laboratory Bench Workers (3223)
• Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists (3222)
• Dentists (3113)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $26.25/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
10
0
0
1996
0
0
0
% change
-
0
0
North Superior Training Board
71
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
College of Denturists of Ontario - http://www.denturists-cdo.com/
Professional Association:
Denturist Association of Ontario
- http://www.dao.on.ca/index.cgi?page=dentureshtml&sid=1107365872Rr
Institutions in Ontario Offering Denturist Programs:
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S101aspx#maincontent
72
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3222
Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists
Job Description
Dental hygienists provide dental hygiene treatment and information related to the
prevention of diseases and disorders of the teeth and mouth. Dental therapists carry out
limited dental services related to the prevention and treatment of diseases and disorders
of the teeth and mouth.
Duties
Dental hygienists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Conduct an initial dental assessment and consult with dentists on patient care
• Take dental impressions
• Instruct patients regarding oral hygiene procedures
• Clean and stimulate the gums to prevent gum disease
• Remove stains and deposits from teeth to prevent tooth and root decay
• Apply fluoride treatment
• Take and develop X-rays
• May perform restorative and orthodontic procedures under the direction of a dentist
• May supervise dental assistants in their health care functions
Dental therapists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Conduct dental assessments and consult with dentist on patient care
• Take dental impressions
• Take and develop X-rays
• Remove stains and deposits from teeth to prevent tooth and root decay
• Apply fluoride treatment
• Instruct patients regarding oral hygiene procedures
• Supervise dental assistants in their health care functions
• May drill and fill cavities, extract teeth and replace portions of tooth crown
Example Titles
• Dental Hygienist
• Dental Nurse
• Dental Therapist
Work Environment
• Clinics
• Dentists’ Offices
• Hospitals
• Educational Institutions
• Dental Therapists employed by provincial
• Government Agencies and Private Industry
and federal governments to work in rural
and remote communities
Training Needed
• Dental hygienists are required to complete a college program ranging from one to three
years, or other approved program in dental hygiene recognized by the governing board
within the province or territory of residence
North Superior Training Board
73
www.nstb.on.ca
• Dental therapists are required to complete the two-year dental therapy diploma
program at the National School of Dental Therapy in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan,
offered by Health Canada
• Licensing by the appropriate provincial or territorial regulatory body is required for
dental hygienists
• Licensure is required for dental therapists in Newfoundland, Saskatchewan, the Yukon
and the Northwest Territories
• The work schedule for this occupation is generally the traditional “9 to 5” arrangement.
There is also a great deal of part-time work as well as temporary work for this
occupation. New graduates can expect to only receive part-time work until they have
accumulated some experience
• Employers are more likely to want a potential employee to have some related
experience before hiring
Related Occupations
• Dental Assistants (3411)
• Dental Technologists, Technicians and Laboratory Bench Workers (3223)
• Dentists (3113)
• Denturists (3221)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $19.55/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay - Stable, but low
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 145 dental hygienists and dental therapists in
the Thunder Bay and area labour force. This was an increase of 40 individuals for this
occupation making it one of the few occupations in this area to show an increase in
employment since the last Census.
Local demand for dental hygienists and dental therapists appears to be stable but low.
There were 2 advertised employment opportunity in 2004, compared to 5 in 2003, 6 in
2002, 9 in 2001, and 0 in 2000.
This occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has remained at a
consistent level over the past 5 years. Technological change is not likely to have an impact
on this occupation.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
145
140
10
1996
105
100
10
% change
38
40
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario - www.cdho.org
74
www.nstb.on.ca
Institutions in Ontario Offering Dental Hygienist Programs:
Locally:
• Confederation College - http://www.confederationc.on.ca/dentalhygiene/
North Superior Training Board
In Ontario:
• Algonquin College
- http://www.algonquincollege.com/acad_menus/fall_00/0927X1FWO.html#Program%20
Description
• Canadian Academy of Dental Hygiene
- http://www.canadianacademyofdentalhygiene.ca/
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S112.aspx#maincontent
• Cambrian College
- http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/_Our_Programs/Full-time_programs/showpage.
cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200509DENH.HTM
• Niagara College
- http://web.niagarac.on.ca/studying/programs/fulltime/hlth_0204/
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?major=DNHY
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/dhy2.asp
• Canadore College
- http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/HealthSciences/040207.cfm
• La Cité Collégiale
- http://www.lacitec.on.ca/prog_cours/pdf/guide/gp0607/1464.pdf
• Durham College
- https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/fulltime/index.jsp#D
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/old/calendar2000-01/DentHygiene_H147.html
• Canadian Institute of Dental Hygiene - http://www.cidh.on.ca/
75
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3223
Dental Technologists, Technicians, and Laboratory Bench Workers
Job Description
Dental technologists and technicians design, prepare and fabricate dentures and dental
devices as prescribed by dentists and other specialists. Dental laboratory bench workers
assist dental technologists and technicians in preparing and fabricating dentures and
other dental devices. Supervisors of dental technologists and technicians are also
included in this unit group.
Duties
Dental technologists and technicians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Design, fabricate or repair dental devices including full or partial dentures, crowns,
bridges, inlays, onlays, clasps and bands, and implants
• May consult with dentists or other specialists on problematic dental cases
• May train and supervise other dental technicians or dental laboratory bench workers in
fabricating dentures and other dental devices
• May perform supervisory and administrative functions for the dental laboratory
Dental laboratory bench workers perform some or all of the following duties:
• Prepare plaster models and moulds from dental impressions
• Prepare wax bite-blocks and impression trays
• Cast gold or metal alloys for bridges and denture bases
• Pack plastic material in moulds to form full or partial dentures
• Mould wax over denture set-up to form full contours of artificial gums
• Make orthodontic bands from gold, silver, stainless steel or other metals
• Finish metal framework of dentures and polish and buff dentures to obtain natural finish
Example Titles
• Ceramic Denture Moulder
• Dental Laboratory Bench Worker
• Dental Technician
• Dental Technician Supervisor
• Dental Technologist
• Denture Finisher
• Denture Wax Pattern Former
• Orthodontic Band Maker
• Registered Dental Technician
• Registered Dental Technologist
Work Environment
• Dental Laboratories
Training Needed
• Dental technologists and technicians are required to complete a college program in
dental technology or four or more years of on-the-job training under the supervision of
a registered dental technologist or technician
• Registration with a regulatory body is required for dental technologists and technicians
76
www.nstb.on.ca
in all provinces except in Manitoba
• Dental laboratory bench workers usually require secondary school and up to two years
of on-the-job training
• Dental laboratory bench workers may progress to dental technologists and technicians
positions with training, experience and registration
North Superior Training Board
Related Occupations
• Dental Assistants (3411)
• Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists (3222)
• Denturists (3221)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - 18.05/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
25
25
0
1996
35
35
0
% change
-29
-29
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Dental Technologists of Ontario - www.cdto.ca
Professional Body: Association of Dental Technologists of Ontario - http://www.adto.org/
Institutions in Ontario Offering Dental Technologist Programs:
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S100.aspx#maincontent
77
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3231
Opticians
Job Description
Opticians fit clients with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist clients in the
selection of eyeglass frames, arrange for the production of eyeglasses or contact lenses
and mount lenses in eyeglass frames. Student opticians and opticians who are managers
of optical retail outlets are included in this group.
Duties
Opticians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Obtain specifications for eyeglasses or contact lenses from a prescription prepared by
an ophthalmologist or optometrist or by analyzing the client’s eyeglasses or contact
lenses and by measuring client’s eye curvature, pupillary distance and bridge width,
using optical measuring devices
• Assist clients in selecting eyeglasses by advising on lens materials, frames, tints and
anti-reflection coating
• Advise on use and care of contact lenses
• Arrange for grinding and polishing of lenses or grind and polish lenses
• Cut and edge lenses and fit lenses into frames
• Adjust finished eyeglasses to fit client
• May supervise or manage the activities of other opticians or student opticians
Example Titles
• Opticianry
• Contact Lens Fitter
• Contact Lens Technician
• Dispensing Optician
• Ophthalmic Dispenser
• Optician
Work Environment
• Optical Retail Outlets
• Departments
• Other establishments
• Self-employed
with optical dispensing
Training Needed
• Completion of a two- or three-year college program in ophthalmic dispensing, which
includes an apprenticeship or completion of an Optician’s Guild two-year ophthalmic
dispensing correspondence course including practical experience is required
• Completion of an Optician’s Guild two-year contact lens technician correspondence
course may also be required for contact lens technicians
• Licensing by a regulatory body is required in all provinces
Related Occupations
• Managers of optical retail outlets or of optical dispensing departments who are not
opticians (in 0621 Retail Trade Managers)
78
www.nstb.on.ca
• Ophthalmologists (in 3111 Specialist Physicians)
• Optical lab technicians (in 3414 Other Aides and Assistants in Support of Health
Services)
• Optometrists (3121)
North Superior Training Board
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $21.15/ hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
10
0
0
1996
10
10
0
% change
0
-100
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Opticians of Ontario - www.coptont.org
Professional Association: Ontario Opticians Association - http://www.ontario-opticians.com/
Institutions in Ontario Offering Opticianry Programs:
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_infophp?major=OPTI
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca/parttime/opticianry/
79
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3232
Midwives and Practitioners of Natural Healing
Job Description
Midwives provide full-course care to women and their babies during pregnancy, labour,
birth and the post-natal period. They are employed in hospitals, birthing centres and
private practice. Practitioners of natural healing provide alternative forms of health care
to patients.
Duties
The following is a summary of the main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Midwives provide full-course care to women and their babies during pregnancy, labour,
birth and the post-natal period including monitoring the health of mother and baby,
counselling and providing advice on diet, conducting routine deliveries and assisting
in complicated deliveries
• Acupuncturists diagnose the diseases, physiological disorders and injuries of patients
and treat them by the insertion of acupuncture needles or through the use of heat,
pressure, electric current or rays of light
• Chinese medical practitioners diagnose the diseases, physiological disorders and
injuries of patients and treat them using raw herbs and other medicines, dietary
supplements or acupuncture
• Herbalists advise patients on the use of herbs for the treatment of conditions such as
arthritis, rheumatism, asthma, skin disorders and stomach ailments and may sell
these herbs
• Homeopaths diagnose illnesses and treat them by administering, in chemical or herbal
form, a small dosage of the illness itself or by suggesting lifestyle changes
• Reflexologists apply gentle finger pressure to specific spots on the clients’ hands or feet
to promote relaxation and better health and well-being
• Rolfers systematically manipulate various parts of the body such as the legs and
shoulders in order to realign the structure of the body and reduce chronic pain
and stress
Example Titles
• Acupuncturist
• Herbalist
• Herborist
• Homeopath
• Homeopathist
• Midwife
• Reflexologist
• Rolfer
• Chinese Medical Practitioner
Work Environment
Midwives are employed in:
• Hospitals
• Birthing Centres
• Private Practice
80
www.nstb.on.ca
Natural healing practitioners are employed in:
• Clinics
• Health Clubs
• Private Practice
• Spas or health food stores
North Superior Training Board
Training Needed
• Midwives require appropriate training which may be acquired through a university
degree in midwifery or its equivalent and a period of supervised practical training
• Registration with a regulatory body is required for midwives in Ontario, Alberta and
British Columbia
• Acupuncturists require completion of a training program in acupuncture, may require
some university undergraduate studies in science or training in a related health care
discipline and may also require work experience under the supervision of a registered
acupuncturist
• Registration with a regulatory body is required for acupuncturists in Quebec, Alberta
and British Columbia
• Chinese medical practitioners usually require completion of a program in traditional
Chinese medicine which is available from certain medical schools abroad or some
post-secondary education and a diploma in traditional Chinese medicine from a
private institute
• All other occupations in this unit group usually require completion of courses or training
programs specific to their occupations and some supervised practical training
• Chinese medical practitioners may practise as acupuncturists
Related Occupations
• Massage Therapists (in 3235 Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment)
• Naturopathic and Osteopathic Physicians
(in 3123 Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $ 16.55/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
35
30
0
2001
1996
25
20
0
% change
40
50
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Midwives of Ontario - http://www.cmo.on.ca/
Professional Association: Association of Ontario Midwives - www.aom.on.ca
Institutions in Ontario Offering Midwifery Programs:
• Laurentian University - http://midwifery.laurentian.ca/
• McMaster University - http://www-fhs.mcmaster.ca/midwifery/
• Ryerson University - http://ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/midwifery.html
North Superior Training Board
81
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3233
Licensed Practical Nurses
Job Description
Licensed practical nurses provide nursing care usually under the direction of medical
practitioners, registered nurses, or other health team members. Operating room
technicians are included in this unit group.
Duties
Licensed practical nurses perform some or all of the following duties:
• Provide nursing services, within defined scope of practice, to patients based on patient
assessment and care planning procedures
• Perform nursing interventions such as taking vital signs, applying aseptic techniques
including sterile dressing, ensuring infection control, monitoring nutritional intake and
conducting specimen collection
• Administer medication and observe and document therapeutic effects
• Provide pre-operative and post-operative personal and comfort care
• Monitor established respiratory therapy and intravenous therapy
• Monitor patients’ progress, evaluate effectiveness of nursing interventions and consult
with appropriate members of healthcare team
• Provide safety and health education to individuals and their families
Operating room technicians perform some or all of the following duties:
• Prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving and sterilizing the patients’
operative areas
• Assist in surgery by laying out instruments, setting up equipment, assisting surgical
teams with gowns and gloves and passing instruments to surgeons
• Clean and sterilize the operating room and instruments
Example Titles
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Licensed Nursing Assistant
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Operating Room Technician
• Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)
• Registered Nursing Assistant (RNA)
Work Environment
• Private Homes
• Companies
• Extended-care Facilities
• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Doctors’ Offices
• Clinics
• Community Health Centres
Training Needed
82
www.nstb.on.ca
• Completion of a vocational, college or other approved program for licensed practical
nurses is required
• Registration with a regulatory body is required in all provinces and territories
• Completion of the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination is required in all
provinces and territories except Quebec
North Superior Training Board
• Operating room technicians require either additional academic training in operating
room techniques or on-the-job training
• Working under the direction of a medical practitioner or registered nurse is not required
for licensed practical nurses in all jurisdictions
Related Occupations
• Home Health Aide
(in 6471 Visiting Homemakers, Housekeepers and Related Occupations)
• Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates (3413)
General Wage
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Stable
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 430 licensed practical nurses in the
Thunder Bay and area labour force. This was an increase of 115 individuals for this
occupation making it one of the few occupations in this area to show an increase in
employment since the last Census.
In Ontario, employment will increase as the health care system shifts from institutional
to home care for people with chronic illnesses and disabling conditions. As well, a
substantial number of job openings will arise each year from the need to replace workers
who retire.
The role of registered practical nurses will change as more technology is introduced at
the bedside. The growing complexity of nursing care and limiting of hospitalization to
critically ill patients will place additional educational demands on the workers employed
in acute care.
While good employment growth is projected for this occupation to the year 2007 in
Ontario, local demand for licensed practical nurses appears to be stable. There were
37 advertised employment opportunities in 2004, compared to 21 in 2003, 32 in 2002,
61 in 2001, and 26 in 2000.
As the population ages over the coming decades, the demands on all occupations tied
to the health sector are likely to increase.
This occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has remained at a
consistent level over the past 5 years. Technological change is not likely to have an
impact on this occupation.
Weekend work and 8 to 12-hour shifts are common. Part-time work is also common.
Stamina and good physical conditioning are required. In general, in Ontario the focus
of chronic health care is within the community while the focus of acute health care is
within the hospital. Many registered practical nurses work in long-term care or home
care. Experience would likely not be a factor in terms of potential employment for
this occupation.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
400
400
10
1996
315
315
0
% change
27
27
-
North Superior Training Board
“The role of registered practical nurses will change as more technology is introduced at
the bedside.”
Thunder Bay & Region - $18.50/hr average
83
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
The College of Nurses has determined that by January 1, 2005, all practical nursing
graduates entering the profession in Ontario must have a two-year diploma in nursing.
To work in the occupation, they must also pass the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration
Exam (CPNRE) and be registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario.
Regulatory Body: College of Nurses of Ontario - http://www.cno.org/
Professional Association: Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario - www.rpnao.org
Colleges/Universities offering Practical Nursing Programs:
Locally:
• Confederation College - http://www.confederationc.on.ca/practicalnursing/
In Ontario:
• Algonquin College - http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/
programOverviewaspx?id=1704X1FWO&
• Cambrian College - http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/_Our_Programs/Full-time_programs/
showpage.cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200509PNDP.HTM
• Canadore College - http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/
HealthSciences/
• Centennial College - http://www.centennialcollege.ca/applied/cent9350/index.shtml
• La Cite Collegiale - http://www.lacitec.on.ca/
• College Boreal - http://www.borealc.on.ca/index.asp?ref=255&prog=26
• Conestoga College - Don Valley Campus
- http://www.conestogac.on.ca/jsp/programs/schoolhealth/health/practicalnursing.jsp
• Durham College - https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/profile/program.
jsp?programID=142
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/png4.asp
• George Brown College - St. James Campus- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/
FTCal/nursing/S121.aspx#top
• Georgian College - Orillia Campus
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?major=PNRS
• Humber College - http://postsecondary.humber.ca/07041.htm
• Lambton College - http://www.lambton.on.ca/Programs/program_html?LASTRECORDID
=1879+PROGCODE=PRAC+RECORDID=274+SUBJECT=274
• Loyalist College - http://www.loyalistc.on.ca/Loyalist/index_e.aspx?DetailID=232
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/practicalNursing.html
• Northern College - South Porcupine Campus
- http://www.northernc.on.ca/programs/hsci/nursing.html
• Sault College - http://www.saultc.on.ca/Programs/PracticalNursing.htm
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/PND.html
• Sheridan College - http://nursing.sheridaninstitute.ca/
• Sir Sanford Fleming College - Sutherland Campus
84
www.nstb.on.ca
- http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?ProgramCode=PN
• St. Clair College - Thames Campus
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/postsec/calendar2005-06/Health.htm#PRACNURS
• St. Lawrence College- Brockville, Cornwall, & Kingston Campuses
- http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0491.HTM
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3234
Ambulance Attendants and Other Paramedical Occupations
Job Description
This unit group includes workers who administer pre-hospital emergency medical care to
patients and transport them to hospitals or other medical facilities for further medical care.
Duties
Workers in this unit group perform some or all of the following duties:
• Administer pre-hospital emergency care, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),
oxygen, bandaging and splinting, to patients
• Establish and maintain intravenous treatment (IV), apply adjunctive equipment for
ventilation and circulation complications, administer medications and provide other
advanced emergency treatment to patients
• Transport patients by air, land or water to hospital or other medical facility for further
medical care
• Document and record nature of injuries and treatment provided
• Assist hospital personnel with provision of medical treatment, if necessary
• Maintain ambulances and emergency care equipment and supplies
• May train and supervise other workers in this unit group
• May assist with triage of emergency patients
Example Titles
• Emergency Medical Attendant (EMA)
• Advanced Care Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Care Assistant
• Ambulance Attendant
• Emergency Medical Responder
• Critical Care Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technologist, Paramedic • Primary Care Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic • Supervisor, Ambulance
(EMT-P) Services
Work Environment
• Private Ambulance Services
• Hospitals
• Manufacturing Firms
• Private Sector Establishments
• Mining Companies
• Fire Departments
• Government Departments and Agencies
Training Needed
“Try it out by volunteering for a day or two, so that you know what you are getting into.“
and stress, overdose and poisoning victims, industrial accident victims and other ill or
injured individuals to determine emergency medical treatment
Katie Strangway
• Assess extent of injuries or illness of trauma victims, patients with respiratory disease
• Completion of a college, hospital-based or other recognized program in emergency
medical technology ranging from two to twenty-four months or courses in emergency
health care and supervised practical training are required
• Licensure according to type and length of training by a regulatory body is required in
Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia
• Those operating emergency vehicles require an appropriate class of licence
North Superior Training Board
85
www.nstb.on.ca
Katie Strangway
Occupational Title: Paramedic • Years in Career: 3
Training: Ministry of Health- EFR course, BLS test, and base hospital certification
For some people, the inspiration to enter a particular field begins at a young age. However,
for Katie, her inspiration came when she “was offered the opportunity to do the training and
loved it instantly.”
The two qualities that Katie shared with us as being paramount to being a paramedic in
Northwestern Ontario were “patience and ambition.”
When thinking about what she likes best about being a paramedic in Northwestern Ontario,
Katie told us that having the ability to be “close to [her] family here.” However, for Katie she
feels a limitation to working in Northwestern Ontario is that she feels there is “not as much
opportunity for advancement in Northwestern Ontario in [her] career.”
Words of Wisdom
“Try it out by volunteering for a day or two, so that you know what you are getting into.“
Related Occupations
• Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services (3414)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $20.05/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Fair
In Ontario, employment for this occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the
average for all occupations through the year 2009. The growing and aging population
will increase the demand for ambulance attendants and other paramedics.
Ambulance services typically do not advertise for workers. Graduates from college
programs tend to send in unsolicited applications. As a general rule, workers are initially
hired on a temporary basis and from there are moved to regular part-time and then to
full-time positions, as vacancies become available. Many Primary Care Paramedics are
upgrading their qualifications to Advanced Care Paramedic status. The growing use of
computerized equipment and dispatch systems will lead paramedics to new computer
applications.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
135
135
0
1996
100
95
10
% change
35
42
-100
Training and More Information
86
www.nstb.on.ca
Professional Association:
Ontario Paramedic Association - http://www.ontarioparamedic.ca/about.html
Regulatory Body:
Ontario College of Paramedics - http://www.ontariocollegeofparamedics.ca/index.htm
North Superior Training Board
Marianne Stevens
Occupational Title: Paramedic • Years in Career: 2
Training: A-EMCA, P1
For Marianne, “listening, a good memory for the basic signs and symptoms of injury and
disease, and having the heart of a helper combined with the knowledge and skills of a
professional” will produce a successful professional in her field. However, Marianne also
indicates the need for an individual in her field to be able to “think inside and outside the box
because you don’t always hear a person say what might be wrong - you have to hear and use
assessment skills.”
What does Marianne likes best about being a paramedic in Northwestern Ontario? Marianne
told us that what she likes best is “helping [her] neighbours - being there for patients and
letting them know their caregiver can be a comfort. This is an aspect that would not likely be
present in a big city. People in a small town develop TRUST and care for one another. Any
‘small’ town service will be like this- if there is a desire for a career with ‘involvement’ choose
small towns!” Marianne cited that a difficulty in Northwestern Ontario, especially in rural
areas, is that there is often a 24-hour on-call status which can be harder physically for
individuals in paramedicine.
Words of Wisdom
“Think, ACT unto others as you would have done unto you. While the object at EMS is to get a
patient to the place where a Doctor’s help is available; courtesy, patience, kindness and
competence should not be neglected. Good manners and consideration mean a lot to scared
people in pain! EMS is the front line of help! So make it good help that comforts!”
Universities in Ontario offering Paramedicine Courses:
• University of Toronto at Scarborough - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/%7Ejtprogs/
paramedicine/index.html
• Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences -
http://www.michener.ca/ce/csu_paramedic.php
Colleges in Ontario offering Primary Paramedics Courses:
Locally:
“This is an aspect that would not likely be present in a big city. People in a small town
develop TRUST and care for one another.”
What finally inspired her to switch careers? Marianne told us the following, “I saw a
dedicated group of volunteers in our small town in Northwestern Ontario, take care of my
father during his 5-year struggle with arrhythmia and heart failure. Their competence and
kindness impressed me to also become a health care helper. When I started training, the
local EMCA was such a good teacher that he added to the inspiration. In 2000, he became ill
himself, and the group he trained was able to go on and do the job.”
Marianne Stevens
Marianne received her training at Confederation College in the paramedic program and went
on to receive her A-EMCA certification. Marianne was not always a professional in the
paramedicine field. Rather, she received a BA degree in History and English from the
University of New Hampshire and taught for 25 years. However, during her teaching,
Marianne became an Ambulance volunteer.
• Confederation College - http://www.confederationc.on.ca/paramedic/
In Ontario:
• Algonquin College - http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/
programOverview.aspx?id=0620X1FWO&
• Boréal College - http://www.borealc.on.ca/index.asp?ref=255&prog=24
North Superior Training Board
87
www.nstb.on.ca
Chris Millington
Occupational Title: Paramedic • Years in Career: 3
Training: Diploma in Paramedicine; courses in BLS, ALS, and CPR
What inspired Chris to become a paramedic? According to Chris, he has “always been
interested in helping people and this career has an immediate impact on people’s lives.”
Someone who has integrity, is a leader, is self-confident, is self-motivated, has ‘thick skin,’ is a
helper and has a sense of humour is someone Chris believes would be highly successful as a
paramedic.
When asked what Chris likes best about working in Northwestern Ontario, the thing he likes
best is that “you get to know your patients better and get feedback more often.”
Chris Millington
“Someone who has integrity, is a leader, is self-confident, is self-motivated, has
‘thick skin,’ is a helper and has a sense of humour is someone Chris believes would
be highly successful as a paramedic.”
Words of Wisdom
“Study hard. Be committed.“
• Cambrian College - http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/_Our_Programs/
• Conestoga College
- http://www.conestogac.on.ca/jsp/programs/schoolhealth/health/paramedic.jsp
• Durham College
- https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/fulltime/index.jsp?viewType=Alpha#P
• Fleming College - http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?ProgramCode=PMD
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.ca/Programs/PAR2.asp
• Georgian College - http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.
php?moremajor=PARA
• Humber College - http://postsecondary.humber.ca/07651.htm
• La Cité College - http://www.lacitec.on.ca/prog_cours/pdf/guide/gp0607/1491.pdf
• Loyalist College - http://www.loyalistcbancroft.on.ca/
• Niagra College - http://web.niagarac.on.ca/studying/programs/fulltime/hlth_0814/
• Northern College - http://www.northernc.on.ca/programs/hsci/paramedic.html
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/postsec/calendar2005-06/Health.htm#PARAMEDIC
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0970.htm
Private Institution:
• Canadian Career College - http://www.canadiancareercollege.com/campus/ppcp.htm
Colleges in Ontario offering Advanced Care Paramedics courses:
• Algonquin College - http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/
programOverview.aspx?id=3005X1FWO&
• Conestoga College
- http://www.conestogac.on.ca/jsp/programs/schoolhealth/health/paramedic.jsp
• Durham College
88
www.nstb.on.ca
- https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/fulltime/index.jsp?viewType=Alpha#P
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/adp1.asp
• Humber College - http://postgraduate.humber.ca/0506/07661.htm
• Niagra College - http://niagarac.on.ca/studying/programs/fulltime/hlth_0854/
North Superior Training Board
Eric Todd
Occupational Title: Platoon Supervisor, Paramedic ACP • Years in Career: 25
Training: 2-year college program, other post-graduate courses
Working in Northwestern Ontario is a lot different than working in more southerly regions
of the province. Eric described increased patient contact as what he likes best about
being a paramedic in Northwestern Ontario, “long distances and remote locations produce
longer contact with patients.” Eric also revealed some of the stresses of working in the
region, namely that there is a higher “need to maintain one’s skill level due to a lesser
volume of calls,” calls in which Eric still “encounters a high-degree of complexity
(i.e. Northwestern Ontario weather, especially in winter, can be more severe; and
the regional community diversities).”
Words of Wisdom
“Be fit and maintain the level. There is a good future ahead for pre-hospital care as a
cost savings.“
Eric Todd
When asked about the skills and abilities he believes a good paramedic requires, Eric
indicated that, “physical fitness, fine motor skills, openmindedness, tolerance of shift work
and the outdoor environment, excelling in stressful environments, as well as problemsolving with limited time and resources” would top his list.
“...physical fitness, fine motor skills, openmindedness, tolerance of shift work and the
outdoor environment, excelling in stressful environments, as well as problem-solving with
limited time and resources” are skills that make a good paramedic.”
Eric pursued a career in paramedics because of the opportunity “to make a positive
impact on others’ lives.” He believes that a paramedic’s job is a “job that few others can
or would do.” Paramedicine requires him to be resourceful because of an ever-changing
environment, while allowing him to use state-of-the-art equipment and procedures.
89
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3235
Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment
Job Description
This unit group includes workers, not elsewhere classified, who perform various technical
therapy and assessment functions. Some may assist professionals such as audiologists, speech
-language pathologists, ophthalmologists and physiotherapists. They are employed in hospitals,
clinics, extended care facilities, rehabilitation centres, educational institutions and in the private
practices of the professionals they assist. Massage therapists may also be self-employed.
Duties
The following is a summary of the main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Audio prosthetists examine clients to determine appropriate type of hearing aid; may test
patient’s hearing; take ear impressions for use in the manufacture of the devices; fit and
adjust hearing aids; and perform follow-up examinations and readjustments
• Audiometric assistants administer, under the supervision of audiologists,
tests such as speech reception and speech discrimination to determine the hearing
thresholds of patients; and record these test results
• Communication assistants carry out remedial programs, under the supervision of
speech language pathologists, to rehabilitate patients with communicative disorders
• Massage therapists assess clients by conducting range of motion and muscle testing and
propose treatment plans; treat soft tissues and joints of the body through soft tissue
manipulation, hydrotherapy, remedial exercise programs and client self-help programs;
provide courses of treatment for medical conditions and injuries or wellness maintenance;
maintain records of treatments given; and may work with other health care professionals
when appropriate
• Ophthalmic medical assistants operate ophthalmic testing and measuring instruments
to aid ophthalmologists to assess patients’ vision; record test results; assist
ophthalmologists in office surgery; and administer eye drops, ointments and
medications as directed by ophthalmologists
• Physical rehabilitation technicians carry out, under physiotherapists’ direction,
treatment programs such as massage, thermotherapy, traction and hydrotherapy to
rehabilitate injured or disabled individuals
Example Titles
• Audiology Technician
• Audiometric Assistant
• Audiometric Technician
• Audioprosthetist
• Hearing Aid Consultant
• Massage Therapist (MT)
• Massage Therapy
• Ophthalmic Assistant
• Ophthalmic Technician
• Ophthalmic Technologist
• Physical Rehabilitation Technician
• Physiotherapy Technician
• Speech Technician
• Speech Therapist Aide
• Speech Therapy Aide
Work Environments
90
www.nstb.on.ca
• Hospitals
• Extended-care Facilities
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Educational Institutions
• Private Practices
• Self-employed
• Clinics
North Superior Training Board
Training Needed
• Audio prosthetists require completion of a two- or three-year college program in audio
prosthetics, including a period of supervised training
• Licensure with a regulatory body is required for audio prosthetists in Quebec, Alberta
and British Columbia
• Audiometric and communication assistants require completion of a 12- to 18-month
college program in communicative disorders or some post-secondary education and
on-the-job training
• Massage therapists usually require completion of an 18- to 24-month program in
massage therapy from an accredited school and supervised practical training
• Registration with a regulatory body is required for massage therapists in Ontario and
British Columbia
• Ophthalmic medical assistants require completion of a nine-month college program or a
24- to 30-month hospital-based training program in ophthalmic techniques and procedures
or a minimum of one year of supervised practical training under an ophthalmologist and
completion of an approved ophthalmic assistant home study program
• Physical rehabilitation technicians require completion of a three-year college program in
physical rehabilitation therapy and supervised practical training
• Currently, the qualifications of physical rehabilitation technicians are recognized only in
the province of Quebec
Related Occupations
• Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health) (3219)
• Other Technical Occupations in Health Care (Except Dental) (3235)
• Physical Therapy Aides or Chiropractic Aides
(in 3414 Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $11.50/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
70
70
0
2001
1996
35
35
0
% change
100
100
0
Training and More Information
Professional Association: Ontario Massage Therapists Association - http://www.omta.com/
Regulatory Body: College of Massage Therapists of Ontario - www.cmto.com
Colleges in Ontario Offering Massage Therapy Programs:
Locally:
• CDI College - http://www.cdicollege.com/programs_detail.php/schoolProgram=Massage%
20Therapy&schoolLocation=Thunder%20Bay
North Superior Training Board
91
www.nstb.on.ca
In Ontario:
• Algonquin College
- http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/programOverview.
aspx?id=0915X1FWO&
• Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy - http://www.collegeofmassage.com/
• Canadian College of Health Science and Technology
- http://www.cchst.net/Massage/massage.htm
• Canadian Therapeutic College - http://www.canadiantherapeuticcollege.com/site/
massage/index.html
• Centennial College - http://www.centennialcollege.ca/applied/massage/
• College Boreal - http://www.borealc.on.ca/ind ex.asp?ref=255&prog=21
• D’Arcy Lane Institute - http://www.darcylane.com/
• Elegance School of Esthetics - http://www.elegance.on.ca/massage.htm
• Elmcrest College - http://www.elmcrestcollege.com/massage_therapy/index.asp
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?major=MASG
• International Academy of Massage - http://www.intlacademy.com/
• ICT Kikkawa College - http://www.ictschools.com/
• Kiné Concept Institute Ontario - http://www.kineconcept.com/decouverte/index.php
• Lambton College
- http://www.lambton.on.ca/Programs/program_html?PROGCODE=C048&LASTRECORDID
=1879
• Medix School - http://www.massage-therapists-training.com/massage_thearpy.htm
• Sir Sanford Fleming College
- http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?ProgramCode=MST
• Sutherland-Chan School - http://www.sutherland-chan.com/school/school.htm
• Trillium College - http://www.trilliumcollege.ca/default.asp?hl=health
• Wellsprings College of Massage Therapy and Esthetics
- http://www.cchh.org/content.asp?MenuID=3&SubMenuID=8&incid=list&DepartmentID=2
&CourseType=Program&ItemID=26
92
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3411
Dental Assistants
Job Description
Dental assistants assist dentists during the examination and treatment of patients and
perform clerical functions.
Duties
Dental assistants perform some or all of the following duties:
• Prepare patients for dental examination and assist the dentist during the examination
• Sterilize and maintain instruments and equipment
• Prepare dental instruments and filling materials
• Educate patients concerning oral hygiene
• Schedule patient appointments and record dental procedures performed
• Invoice patients for dental services
• Order dental and office supplies
• Take and develop X-rays
• Polish teeth and clinical crowns and apply fluoride and sealant
• Take preliminary impressions for diagnostic casts
• Fabricate temporary crowns and restorations
Example Titles
• Certified Dental Assistant
• Dental Assistant
• Registered Dental Assistant
• Certified Intra-oral Dental Assistant
Work Environment
• Employed by government and
educational institutions
• Dentists’ Offices
Training Needed
• Completion of a three-month to one-year college or other program in dental assistance
or completion of secondary school with on-the-job training is required
• Licensing is not mandatory, but is required to perform intra-oral duties in all provinces
except in Quebec
• In most provinces, there are two levels of dental assistants: Level I - chair-side assistant
and Level II - intra-oral assistant. Progression from Level I to Level II is possible with
appropriate training and licensure
Related Occupations
• Dental Technologists, Technicians and Laboratory Bench Workers (3223)
• Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists (3222)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $10.85/hr average
North Superior Training Board
93
www.nstb.on.ca
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Limited
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 115 dental assistants in the Thunder Bay and area
labour force. This is a decrease since the 1996 Census.
In Ontario, employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average
for all occupations through the year 2007. The demand for dental assistants depends on the
number of people seeking dental care and the frequency of their visits. Population growth and
greater retention of natural teeth by older people will increase demand for dental services.
An increased use of computers for recording and accessing patient information will lead
to new computer training needs for dental assistants. The need for continuous learning
will remain strong as new procedures, techniques and materials are introduced. Many
opportunities are for entry-level positions offering on-the-job training. Dental assistants
often upgrade to hygienists, who usually earn substantially more than dental assistants.
While average employment growth is projected for this occupation to the year 2007 in Ontario,
local demand for dental assistants appears to be stable. There were 29 advertised employment
opportunities in 2004, compared to 29 in 2003, 14 in 2002, 20 in 2001, and 19 in 2000.
This occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has remained at a consistent
level over the past 5 years. Technological change is not likely to have an impact on this
occupation. A 35- to 40-hour workweek is common. Some part-time, evening and Saturday
work exists as dental offices extend business.
Experience would likely not be a factor in terms of potential employment for this occupation.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
100
85
15
1996
135
120
10
% change
-26
-29
50
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
Ontario Dental Nurses and Assistants Association - http://www.odnaa.org/duties.htm
Colleges in Ontario Offering Dental Assistant Programs:
Locally:
Confederation College - http://www.confederationc.on.ca/dentalassist/
In Ontario:
• Cambrian College - http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/
• Canadore College - http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/HealthSciences/040206.cfm
• Durham College, School of Health - https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/dental/assistant/default.asp
• George Brown College - http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?major=DNAS
94
www.nstb.on.ca
• Niagara College - http://niagarac.on.ca/studying/programs/fulltime/hlth_0101/
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/postsec/Calendar2006-07/schoolofhealthsciences.
html#h915
North Superior Training Board
NOC 3413
Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates
Job Description
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates assist nurses, hospital staff and
physicians in the basic care of patients. They are employed in hospitals, nursing homes,
and other health care facilities.
Duties
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates perform some or all of the following
duties:
• Answer call signals; supply and empty bed pans; bathe, dress and groom patients;
serve meal trays, feed or assist in feeding of patients and assist patients with menu
selection; lift, turn or massage patients; shave patients prior to operations; supervise
patients’ exercise routines, set-up and provide leisure activities for patients, and
accompany patients on outside recreational activities; and perform other duties related
to patient care
• Take patients’ blood pressure, temperature and pulse; report or record fluid intake and
output; observe or monitor patients’ status and document patient care on charts; collect
specimens such as urine, faeces or sputum; administer suppositories, colonic irrigations
and enemas and perform other procedures as directed by nursing and hospital staff
• Transport patients in wheelchair or stretcher for treatment or surgery
• Carry messages, reports, requisitions and specimens from one department to another
• Make beds and maintain patients’ rooms
• Maintain inventory of supplies
• May perform maintenance tasks such as assist with the set-up and maintenance of
traction equipment, clean or sterilize equipment, maintain and repair equipment,
assemble, set-up and operate job-related equipment
Example Titles
• Health Care Aide
• Hospital Attendant
• Long-Term Care Aide
• Nurse Aide
• Nursing Attendant
• Orderly
• Patient Care Aide
• Patient Service Associate
• Psychiatric Aide
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Other Health Care Facilities
Training Needed
• Some secondary school education and on-the-job training or a nursing aide or health
care aide college or private institutional program, or a college nursing orderly program
and supervised practical training are required. Most health care aide programs have
been incorporated into Personal Support Worker programs
• Some health care facilities may also require completion of specialized courses such
as C.P.R. (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), first aid and food handling/sterile processing
North Superior Training Board
95
www.nstb.on.ca
Related Occupations
• Licensed Practical Nurses (3233)
• Other Aides and Assistants in Support of Health Services (3414)
• Personal care attendants - home care
(in 6471 Visiting Homemakers, Housekeepers and Related Occupations)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $15.90/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Fair
At the time of the 2001 Census, 450 nurse aides and orderlies were employed in the
Thunder Bay and area labour force. This is a decrease since the 1996 Census. In Ontario,
employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2007. Because of the large size of this occupational group,
job growth will create a substantial number of openings each year. Most people working
in this occupation are currently employed in hospitals. As the population ages, more jobs
will be available in facilities providing services to the elderly.
Other trends that will affect work in these occupations include increasing computerization
of patient records and greater use of machinery to lift patients. While average
employment growth is projected for this occupation to the year 2007 in Ontario,
local demand appears to be stable. There were 9 advertised jobs in 2004, compared
to 37 in 2003, 46 in 2002, 49 in 2001, and 89 in 2000. As the population ages over the
coming decades, the demands on all occupations tied to the health sector are likely to
increase. This occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has remained
at a consistent level over the past 5 years. Technological change is not likely to have an
impact on this occupation. The hours of work are variable due to the need to provide
services on a 24-hour basis. Both full-time work and part-time work are common.
Stamina and good physical conditioning are required. In general in Ontario, the focus
of chronic health care is within the community while the focus of acute health care is
within the hospital. Experience would likely not be a factor in terms of potential
employment for this occupation.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
415
395
20
1996
565
540
25
% change
-27
-27
-20
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
Ontario Community Support Association - http://www.ocsa.on.ca/whoweare/body_psw.html
Colleges in Ontario Offering Health Care Aide Programs:
• Algonquin College
96
www.nstb.on.ca
- http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/programOverview.
aspx?id=6307X1FPT&
• Cambrian College
- http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/%5Four%5Fprograms/Full-time_ programs/showpage.
cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/
North Superior Training Board
• Centennial College - http://www.centennialcollege.ca/applied/psw/
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/20067/psw6.asp
• Fleming College
- http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?ProgramCode=
PWS-PWF-PWL-PWH
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/nursing/C112.aspx
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?moremajor=PSWR
• Humber College - http://postsecondary.humber.ca/07741.htm
• Lambton College - http://www.lambton.on.ca/Programs/program_html?
• Loyalist College - http://www.loyalistc.on.ca/Loyalist/index_e.aspx?DetailID=229
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar05_06/personalSupportWorker.html
• Sault College - http://www.saultc.on.ca/healthsciences/PersonalSupport.htm
• Sheridan College - http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/programs/0506/ppswk/
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/postsec/Calendar2006-07/schoolofhealthsciences.
html#h286k290
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/f1032.htm
97
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 3414
Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services
Job Description
This unit group includes workers who provide services and assistance to health care
professionals and other health care staff.
Duties
The following is a summary of main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Orthopedic technologists assist orthopedic surgeons in the treatment of orthopedic
diseases and injuries by applying and adjusting casts, splints, bandages and other
orthopedic devices; assisting in the application, maintenance and adjustment of traction
equipment; cleaning and dressing wounds; and removing casts, sutures, staples and
pins. They also instruct patients and their families and other health care professionals
with respect to orthopedic matters
• Therapy assistants prepare and maintain equipment and supplies, assist patients as
directed by health care professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists
and chiropractors and may perform routine office functions
• Optical/ophthalmic laboratory technicians and assistants operate laboratory equipment to
grind, cut, polish and edge lenses for eyeglasses according to prescriptions received and fit
lenses into frames; make minor repairs for customers such as replacing frame screws or
straightening frames; and maintain and repair optical laboratory equipment or machinery
• Pharmacy assistants assist pharmacists by compounding, packaging and labelling
pharmaceutical products and by maintaining prescription records and inventories of
medications and pharmaceutical products
• Central supply aides collect and sort soiled supplies and instruments from hospital
departments; operate machines such as instrument washers, sonic sinks, cart washers
and steam autoclaves to clean, reprocess and sterilize these supplies for re-use; and
assemble packs of sterile supplies and instruments for delivery to hospital departments
• Blood donor clinic assistants set up and dismantle equipment; prepare and maintain
cleanliness of collection areas; maintain supplies; record information on donors;
monitor donors throughout procedure and assist with post-donation care and donor
reaction care as assigned under supervision of a registered nurse; and label and
process donated blood
• Morgue attendants assist pathologists at autopsies by laying out surgical instruments;
preparing solutions for preservation of specimens; transferring bodies from morgue to
examining table; removing organs and tissue specimens, as instructed by attending
pathologist, and placing them in preservative solutions; and cleaning and sewing up
bodies for release to funeral home
Example Titles
98
www.nstb.on.ca
• Autopsy Assistant
• Blood Donor Clinic Assistant
• Cast Room Technician
• Central Supply Aide
• Chiropractic Assistant
• Clinical Laboratory Helper
• Lens Grinder, Ophthalmic
• Occupation Therapy Assistant
• Morgue Attendant
• Optometrist Assistant
• Orthopedic Technologist
• Pharmacy Assistant
• Physiotherapy Assistant
• Optical Laboratory Assistant
• Rehabilitation Assistant
• Therapy Assistant
• Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician-retail
North Superior Training Board
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Offices of Health Care Professionals
• Clinics
• Nursing Homes
• Optical Retail Stores and Laboratories
• Pharmacies
• Medical Pathology Laboratories
Training Needed
• Orthopedic technologists usually require completion of secondary school and several
months of on-the-job training or a college orthopaedic technologist program
• Registration with the Canadian Society of Orthopaedic Technologists is available and
usually required by employers
• Health care courses or short-term college programs related to the work of medical
assistants, such as occupational therapy assistant/physiotherapy assistant programs or
a program in central supply service techniques, are available and may be required
by employers
• Pharmacy assistants require completion of secondary school and several months of
on-the-job training or a five- to nine-month college program in pharmaceutical services
• Completion of secondary school and several months of on-the-job training are usually
required for other assisting occupations in this unit group
• Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) and physiotherapy assistants (PTA) receive
training through a single OTA/PTA program in some community colleges
Related Occupations
• Eyeglass frame polisher (in 9517 Other Products Machine Operators)
• Medical Technologists and Technicians
(in 3219 Other Medical Technologists and Technicians (except Dental Health))
• Operating Room Technicians (in 3233 Licensed Practical Nurses)
• Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment (3235)
• Pathologists’ Assistants
(in 3211 Medical Laboratory Technologists and Pathologists’ Assistants)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $16.30/hr average
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Fair
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 230 other aides and assistants in support of
health services in the Thunder Bay and area labour force. This was an increase of 85
individuals for this occupation making it one of the few occupations in this area to show
an increase in employment since the last Census.
Local demand appears to be stable. There were 24 advertised employment opportunities
in 2004, compared to 24 in 2003, 31 in 2002, 14 in 2001, and 29 in 2000. As the population
ages over the coming decades, the demands on all occupations tied to the health sector
are likely to increase. This occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has
remained at a consistent level over the past 5 years. Technological change is not likely to
have an impact on this occupation. This is generally a full-time position, however, there is
a significant number of part-time employees in this occupation. Someone in this
occupation can expect to work days, evenings and weekends.
Experience would likely not be a factor in terms of potential employment for this occupation.
North Superior Training Board
99
www.nstb.on.ca
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
225
220
0
1996
145
145
0
% change
55
52
0
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
Ontario Physiotherapy Association - http://www.opa.on.ca/
Colleges in Ontario Offering Physiotherapy Assistant Programs:
• Boréal College - http://www.borealc.on.ca/index.asp?ref=255&prog=66
• Conestoga College
- http://www.conestogac.on.ca/jsp/programs/schoolhealth/health/otapta.jsp
• Humber College - http://healthsciences.humberc.on.ca/otpa.htm
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/otapa.html
100
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 0014
Senior Managers - Health, Education, Social and Community
Services and Membership Organizations
Job Description
Senior managers in this unit group plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate, through
middle managers, membership and other organizations or institutions that deliver health,
education, social or community services. They formulate policies which establish the
direction to be taken by these organizations, either alone or in conjunction with a board
of directors.
Duties
Senior managers in this unit group perform some or all of the following duties:
• Establish objectives for the organization or institution and formulate or approve policies
and programs
• Authorize and organize the establishment of major departments and associated senior
staff positions
• Allocate material, human and financial resources to implement an organization’s
policies and programs; establish financial and administrative controls; formulate and
approve promotion campaigns; and approve overall personnel planning. Select middle
managers, directors or other executive staff. Co-ordinate the work of regions, divisions
or departments. Represent the organization or institution or delegate representatives to
act on behalf of the organization in negotiations or other official functions
Example Titles
• Executive Director
Work Environment
• Health Services Institutions Offices
Training Needed
• A university degree or college diploma in business administration, hospital
administration, finance or other discipline related to the service provided is
usually required
• Several years of experience as a middle manager in a related institution or organization
are usually required
• Specialization in a particular functional area or service may occur either through specific
university or college training in that area or through previous experience. Senior
managers in finance usually require a professional accounting designation
• The boundaries of this unit group are defined by the North American Industry
Classification System (NAICS). Included are senior managers in the following
industries: educational services, health care and social services and membership
organizations
Related Occupations
Related middle managers are classified in the following unit groups:
• Government Managers - Health and Social Policy Development and Program
Administration (0411)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
• Managers in Social, Community and Correctional Services (0314)
North Superior Training Board
101
www.nstb.on.ca
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $37.00/hr average
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
155
155
0
1996
60
60
0
% change
158
158
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: Canadian College of Health Services Executives - http://www.cchse.org/
Universities in Ontario Offering Health Services or Health Care Management Programs:
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/health.html
• York University - http://www.yorku.ca/web/futurestudents/programs/template.asp?id=424
Universities in Ontario Offering Business Administration Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://business.lakeheadu.ca/wp/?pg=7#badmin
In Ontario:
• Brock University - http://www.bus.brocku.ca/bba/
• Guelph University - http://www.uoguelph.ca/undergrad_calendar/c10/c10bsc-badm.shtml
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/commerce.pdf
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/artsandsciencecalendar/acas_bba.asp#
• University of Ottawa - http://www3.management.uottawa.ca/mba/
• Queen’s University - http://business.queensu.ca/aboutmba.htm
• Royal Military College - http://www.rmc.ca/academic/arts/busadmin_e.html
• University of Toronto - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~mgmt/programs/bba.html
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.ivey.uwo.ca/hba/
• Wilfrid Laurier University - http://info.wlu.ca/~wwwsbe/sbe2000/html/business/indexa.html
• University of Windsor - http://www.uwindsor.ca
• York University - http://bloodstone.atkinson.yorku.ca/
102
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 0311
Managers in Health Care
Job Description
This unit group includes managers who plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the
delivery of health care services, such as diagnosis and treatment, nursing and therapy,
within institutions that provide health care services.
Duties
• Managers in health care perform some or all of the following duties:
• Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the delivery of health care services within a
department or establishment
• Consult with boards of directors and senior managers to maintain and establish
standards for the provision of health care services
• Develop evaluation systems to monitor the quality of health care given to patients
• Monitor the use of diagnostic services, in-patient beds and facilities to ensure effective
use of resources
• Develop and implement plans for new programs, special projects, new material and
equipment acquisitions and future staffing levels in their department or establishment.
Plan and control departmental or establishment budget. Represent the department or
establishment at meetings with government officials, the public, the media and other
organizations
• Supervise health care supervisors and professionals
• Recruit health care staff of the department or establishment
Example Titles
• Director of Clinical Medicine
• Chief of Emergency Medicine
• Chief of Medical Staff
• Director, Home Care Services
• Director, Rehabilitation Services
• Director of Dietetics
• Director of Laboratory Medicine
• Director of Surgery
• Medical Clinic Director
• Director of Occupational Therapy
• Director of Physiotherapy
• Chief of Anesthesia
• Mental Health Residential Care
• Directory of Nursing - Medical Services
Program Manager
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Medical Clinics
• Nursing Homes
• Health Care Establishments
Training Needed
• Administrators of departments such as surgery, clinical medicine or laboratory medicine
are usually required to have the education and training of a specialist physician
• Administrators of other departments, such as nursing, dietetics or physiotherapy, are
usually required to have the education and training of the medical professionals in
that department
• Several years of experience in the relevant profession, including supervisory experience,
are usually required
North Superior Training Board
103
www.nstb.on.ca
• Certification in the relevant profession is required
• There is little or no mobility between departments in different medical specializations
• Progression to senior management positions in health care services is possible
with experience
Related Occupations
• Government Managers - Health and Social Policy Development and
Program Administration (0411)
• Senior Managers - Health, Education, Social and Community Services and
Membership Organizations (0014)
“Skills in business, financial and general management will become more important for
health care managers.”
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $28.10/hr average
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Good
Openings resulting from job growth and the need to replace workers who retire should
create good employment opportunities through 2009. The on-going restructuring of
health and medical services towards more non-hospital care is affecting the nature of
employment opportunities for this occupational group.
Opportunities for health service managers will likely arise due to the varied needs
of the aging population - for example, managing nursing homes. In addition to the
rationalization of institutions, computerized management information and
communications systems play an increasing role in the delivery of health care services.
Skills in business, financial and general management will become more important for
health care managers.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
145
145
0
1996
110
105
0
% change
32
38
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: Canadian College of Health Services Executives - http://www.cchse.org/
Professional Body: Ontario Hospital Association - http://www.oha.com/
Refer to NOC 3111 - Specialist Physicians and NOC 3152 - Registered Nurses for
information on Universities in Ontario Offering Training in the required discipline.
104
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 0411
Government Managers - Health and Social Policy Development
and Program Administration
Job Description
Government managers in this unit group plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate
the development and administration of health care policies, social policies and related
programs designed to protect and promote the health and social welfare of individuals
and communities. These managers are employed by government departments
and agencies.
Duties
Government managers in health and social policy development and program
administration perform some or all of the following duties:
• Participate in the development of health or social policies by providing advice to senior
government managers
• Organize departmental unit and establish procedures to meet departmental objectives
set by senior management
• Direct and advise health or social policy researchers, consultants or program officers
who conduct research, prepare documents or administer programs for individuals and
communities in areas such as health and social services, employment and immigration,
labour or housing
• Plan, administer and control budgets for research and administration, support services
and equipment and supplies
• Organize and direct committees and working groups to plan, manage or evaluate health
and social services projects and programs. Interview, hire and provide training for staff
Example Titles
• City Medical Officer of Health
• Manager, Health Program Operations
• Manager, Social Services Planning
• Social Services Director
• Directory, Health Information and Promotion
Work Environment
• Government departments and agencies
Training Needed
Government managers in health policy development and program administration:
• A bachelor’s degree or college diploma in health science, hospital administration
or public administration or a bachelor’s degree in social science is required
• A graduate degree in a health, social science or administrative discipline may
be required
• Several years of experience as a health or social policy researcher, consultant or
program officer are usually required
• For some government managers in health policy development and program
administration, certification in the relevant health profession is required.
For example, city medical officers of health must be physicians
• Progression to senior management positions in the health and social policy fields
is possible with experience
North Superior Training Board
105
www.nstb.on.ca
Related Occupations
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $21.45/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
15
15
0
1996
30
30
0
% change
-50
-50
0
Training and More Information
Universities in Ontario Offering Health Sciences Programs:
• Brock University - http://www.brocku.ca/communhealthsci/
• McMaster University - http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/bhsc/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.health.uottawa.ca/bschs.htm
• Queen’s University - http://www.queensu.ca/artsci/programs/lifescience.html
• University of Toronto
- http://www.artsandscience.utoronto.ca/ps/academic/pdfs/index.shtml#G-I
• University of Waterloo - http://www.ahs.uwaterloo.ca/prospective/hlth/index.html
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/
• York University - http://bloodstone.atkinson.yorku.ca/
106
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 1243
Medical Secretaries
Job Description
Medical secretaries perform a variety of secretarial and administrative duties in doctors’
offices, hospitals, medical clinics and other medical settings.
Duties
Medical secretaries perform some or all of the following duties:
• Schedule and confirm medical appointments and receive and communicate messages
for medical staff and patients
• Prepare, key in, edit, and proofread medical records, reports, articles, case histories
and correspondence from machine dictation, shorthand and handwritten notes
using computers
• Interview patients in order to complete forms, documents and case histories
• Complete insurance and other claim forms
• Initiate and maintain confidential medical files and records
• Prepare financial statements and billing procedures
• Order supplies and maintain inventory
• Determine and establish office procedures and routines
• May supervise and train other staff in procedures and in use of current software
Example Titles
• Medical Secretary
• Ward Secretary
Work Environment
• Doctors’ Offices
• Hospitals
• Medical Clinics
• Other medical settings
Training Needed
• Completion of secondary school is usually required
• Completion of a one- or two-year college program or other specialized courses for
secretaries or medical secretaries is usually required
Related Occupations
• Medical Records Clerks (in 1413 Records Management and Filing Clerks)
• Medical Transcriptionists (in 1244 Court Recorders and Medical Transcriptionists)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $15.45/hr
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Limited
In contrast with most other secretarial occupations, employment for this occupation is
expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2009,
due to growth in the health service industry. In addition, many job openings will be
created each year from the need to replace workers who retire.
North Superior Training Board
107
www.nstb.on.ca
The increasing use of computerized medical records systems, billing systems and other
office equipment technology in medical offices and clinics means that medical secretaries
with strong computer skills will have better employment opportunities.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
260
255
0
1996
220
215
0
% change
18
19
0
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
Ontario Medical Secretaries Association - http://www.omsa-hca.org/
Colleges in Ontario Offering Medical Office Administration Programs:
Locally:
• CDI College
- http://cdicollege.com/
In Ontario:
• Canadore College - http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/InfoTech/020330.cfm
• Centennial College - http://www.centennialcollege.ca/
• Conestoga College - http://www.conestogac.on.ca/
• Durham College - https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/fulltime/index.jsp
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/20067/oag1.asp
• George Brown College - http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/
• Georgian College - http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/
• Lambton College - http://www.lambton.on.ca
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/officeAdminMedical.html
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/coned/WINSPRING05/OFFICEADMINISTRATION.htm
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0620.htm
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/MES.html
• Sheridan College - http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/
108
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 1244
Medical Transcriptionists
Job Description
Medical transcriptionists record and transcribe surgical proceedings, medical records
and other reports requiring knowledge of medical terminology.
Duties
Medical transcriptionists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Transcribe machine dictation or rough notes from medical reports, correspondence,
medical records and patient information
• Proofread work for typographical and grammatical errors
Example Titles
• Medical Transcriptionist
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Medical Clinics
• Doctors’ Offices
• Self-employed
Training Needed
• Completion of secondary school is required
• Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) certificate may be required
• Medical Office Administration programs incorporate medical transcription into
their programs
• There is some mobility between occupations in this unit group and other occupations
requiring similar knowledge of legal or medical terminology, such as legal or
medical secretary
Related Occupations
• Medical Secretaries (1243)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $18.60/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
45
45
0
1996
55
45
0
% change
-18
0
0
2001
North Superior Training Board
109
www.nstb.on.ca
Training and More Information
Colleges in Ontario Offering Medical Office Administration Programs:
Locally:
• CDI College - http://cdicollege.com/about.php?schoolLocation=Thunder%20Bay
In Ontario:
• Canadore College
- http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/InfoTech/020330.cfm
• Conestoga College
- http://www.conestogac.on.ca/jsp/programs/schoolbusiness/officeadmingen.jsp
• Durham College - https://myplace.durhamcollege.ca/durham/fulltime/index.jsp
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/20067/oag1.asp
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/C115.aspx#maincontent
• Georgian College
- http://www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/programs/program_info.php?major=OFAM
• Lambton College
- http://www.lambton.on.ca/Programs/program_html?PROGCODE=B018&LASTRE
CORDID=1879
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/officeAdminMedical.html
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/MES.html
• Sheridan College - http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/programs/0506/pofad/
• St. Clair College
- http://www.stclaircollege.ca/programs/coned/WINSPRING05OFFICE
ADMINISTRATION.htm
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0620.htm
110
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 2263
Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and Occupational
Health and Safety
Job Description
Inspectors in this unit group evaluate and monitor health and safety hazards and develop
strategies to control risks in the workplace. They inspect restaurants, public facilities,
industrial establishments, municipal water systems and other workplaces to ensure
compliance with government regulations regarding sanitation, pollution control, the
handling and storage of hazardous substances and workplace safety.
Duties
Inspectors in this unit group perform some or all of the following duties:
• Inspect the sanitary conditions of restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals and other
public facilities or institutions
• Conduct surveys and monitoring programs of the natural environment to identify
sources of pollution
• Collect samples of water for analysis; measure physical, biological and chemical
workplace hazards; and conduct safety and environmental audits
• Investigate health and safety related complaints, spills of hazardous chemicals,
outbreaks of diseases or poisonings and workplace accidents
• Inspect workplaces to ensure that equipment, materials and production processes do
not present a safety or health hazard to employees or to the general public
• Develop, implement and evaluate health and safety programs and strategies
• Initiate enforcement procedures to fine or to close an establishment contravening
municipal, provincial or federal regulations
• Provide consultation and deliver training programs to employers, employees and the
general public on issues of public health, environmental protection or workplace safety
Example Titles
• Environmental Health Officer
• Health and Safety Officer
• Health Standards Inspector
• Occupational Health and Safety Officer
• Public Health Inspector
• Supervisor, Public Health Inspectors
Work Environment
• Employed throughout private and public sectors
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree or college diploma in a discipline such as food science,
environmental studies, chemistry or health and safety is usually required
• In some establishments, several years of related work experience and the completion
of in-house training courses may substitute for formal education
• Public health inspectors employed outside Quebec require certification with the
Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors
• Occupational health and safety officers may require certification with the Board of
Canadian Registered Safety Professionals
North Superior Training Board
111
www.nstb.on.ca
Related Occupations
• Occupational Hygienists and Ergonomists (in 4161 - Natural and Applied Science Policy
Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $27.20/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
70
60
10
1996
85
80
0
% change
-18
-25
-
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
• Ontario Public Health Association - http://www.opha.on.ca/
• Health Care Health & Safety Association of Ontario
- http://www.hchsa.on.ca/about/about.html
• Canadian Institute for Public Health Inspectors - http://www.ciphi.ca/aboutus.htm
Regulatory Body:
• Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals - http://www.acrsp.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Public Health Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University, Graduate - http://mph.lakeheadu.ca/
In Ontario:
• Ryerson University, Bachelor - http://www.ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/occhealth.html
• University of Toronto, Graduate - http://www.phs.utoronto.ca/
• University of Western Ontario, Diploma - http://www.uwo.ca/
Colleges in Ontario Offering Occupational Health and Safety Programs:
• Cambrian College - https://secure.cambrianc.on.ca/coned/showcert.cfm?strCert=ohct.htm
• Conestoga College - http://www.conestogac.on.ca/
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/ohs2.asp
• Fleming College - http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Courses/
112
www.nstb.on.ca
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/
North Superior Training Board
NOC 4151
Psychologists
Job Description
Psychologists assess and diagnose behavioural, emotional and cognitive disorders,
counsel clients, provide therapy and research and apply theory relating to behaviour and
mental processes. Psychologists help clients work toward the maintenance and
enhancement of physical, intellectual, emotional, social and interpersonal functioning.
Duties
Psychologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Examine and assess behaviour, diagnose behavioural, emotional and cognitive
disorders, counsel clients and provide therapy
• Help clients manage physical illness and disorders
• Counsel individuals and groups to achieve more effective personal, social and
vocational development and adjustment and offer mediation services
• Use standard psychological tests for assessment
• Plan intervention programs and conduct program evaluation
• Apply psychological theory and principles regarding behaviour and mental processes
such as learning, memory, perception and language development
• Formulate hypotheses and experimental designs, review literature, conduct studies
and publish research papers, educational texts and articles
• Deliver presentations at conferences, workshops or symposia
• Provide consultation services to government and other organizations
Example Titles
• Clinical Psychologist
• Psychologist
• Experimental Psychologist
• Psychological Associate
• Research Psychologist
Work Environment
• Private Practice
• Clinics
• Correctional Facilities
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Hospitals
• Mental Health Facilities
• Schools and Universities
• Businesses
• Government and private
• Community Service Organizations
research agencies
Training Needed
• A doctoral degree in psychology is required for the designation “Psychologist” in
Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia
• A master’s degree in psychology is required for the designation “Psychologist” in
Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Alberta and the
Northwest Territories
• A master’s degree in psychology is required for the designation “Psychological
Associate” in Ontario and Manitoba
North Superior Training Board
113
www.nstb.on.ca
Hanusia Tkaczyk
Occupational Title: Counsellor/Psychotherapist • Years in Career: 24
Training: HBA in Psychology, Masters in Psychology
Hanusia Tkaczyk
“Health care is very satisfying, but it will be important to be aware of and handle your own
emotional responses to loss; to our inability to cure or change all conditions...”
Why did Hanusia take up a career in counselling and psychotherapy? Hanusia states that a
“fascination with the way our minds work,” as well as applying this knowledge “to help people
manage their lives better” were initial inspirations for her to enter her field. An “ongoing
fascination with how the mind and body interact” continues to be an inspiration for her.
Hanusia feels that a successful professional in her field should be a person who is “openminded, non-judgmental, compassionate, flexible, patient, curious, dedicated, and good with
language and communication.” Having integrity is another trait that Hanusia feels a professional
should have.
When asked what she likes best about being a health care professional in Northwestern Ontario,
Hanusia told us the following: in working in Northwestern Ontario, the “pace is less hectic than
in big cities,” there is a “use of natural settings and the Aboriginal influence as healing
resources,” and there is a “small community of fellow helpers” making it “easier to reach out to
colleagues for information and support.” Hanusia also states that there are “more challenges to
handle confidential information in a small environment,” as well as having to handle “dual
relationships with both clients and fellow professionals” in practicing in Northwestern Ontario.
Words of Wisdom
“Health care is very satisfying, but it will be important to be aware of and handle your own
emotional responses to loss; to our inability to cure or change all conditions. Don’t fret because
you’re ‘not into sciences.’ Health care has benefited from the influence of more artistic and
humanistic practitioners. It is a more flexible field than 1-2 generations ago.”
• In Prince Edward Island, a doctoral degree is required to work in private practice, or a
master’s degree with practice limited to institutions and agencies
• A period of supervised practical experience is required in most jurisdictions
• Successful completion of the written Examination for Professional Practice in
Psychology (EPPP) is required in most provinces
• Oral examinations and board interviews are also required in some provinces
• Registration with a regulatory body is required in all provinces and the
Northwest Territories
• Membership in the provincial professional association for psychologists is mandatory
in all provinces and the Northwest Territories
• Psychologists become specialized in a particular area through training and experience
• Psychological associates may be granted permission by provincial regulatory authorities
to perform duties normally restricted to psychologists, specifically diagnosing
psychological disorders and communicating diagnoses to clients
Related Occupations
• Psychiatrists (in 3111 Specialist Physicians)
• Psychologists who teach at universities (in 4121 University Professors)
114
www.nstb.on.ca
• Psychology research assistants, non-university
(in 4164 Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers)
• Psychology research assistants, university
(in 4122 Post-Secondary Teaching and Research Assistants)
• Psychometrists (in 4169 Other Professional Occupations in Social Science, n.e.c.)
North Superior Training Board
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $ 28.60/hr
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Average
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. Many more job openings will be created each year
from the need to replace workers who retire.
Psychologists with clinical specialization and those willing to work in correctional centres
may have better job prospects. As well, employment opportunities are increasing
available in private practices outside of the institutional health care setting.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
30
30
0
1996
30
30
0
% change
0
0
0
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body: College of Psychologists of Ontario - www.cpo.on.ca
Professional Association: Canadian Psychological Association - www.cpa.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering Psychology Programs :
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://psychology.lakeheadu.ca/
In Ontario:
• Brock University - http://www.psyc.brocku.ca/
• Carleton University - http://www.carleton.ca/psychology/
• University of Guelph - http://www.psychology.uoguelph.ca/
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/psychology.pdf
• McMaster University - http://www.science.mcmaster.ca/Psychology/psych.html
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/psychology/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.socialsciences.uottawa.ca/
• Queen’s University - http://pavlov.psyc.queensu.ca/
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/psychology/
• University of Toronto - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/
115
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 4152
Social Workers
Job Description
Social workers help individuals, couples, families, groups, communities and organizations
develop the skills and resources they need to enhance social functioning and provide
counselling, therapy and referral to other supportive social services. Social workers also
respond to other social needs such as unemployment, racism and poverty. They are
employed by hospitals, school boards, social service agencies, child welfare organizations,
correctional facilities, community agencies, employee assistance programs and
Aboriginal band councils, or they may work in private practice.
Duties
Social workers perform some or all of the following duties:
• Interview clients individually, in families, or in groups, to assess their situation and
problems and determine the types of services required
• Provide counsel and therapy to assist clients in developing skills to deal with and
resolve their social and personal problems
• Plan programs of assistance for clients including referral to agencies that provide
financial assistance, legal aid, housing, medical treatment and other services investigate
cases of child abuse or neglect and take authorized protective action when necessary
• Serve as members on interdisciplinary teams of professionals working with
client groups
• Act as advocates for client groups in the community, lobby for solutions to problems
directly affecting client groups and develop prevention and intervention programs to
meet community needs
• Develop or advise on social policy legislation, conduct social research and assist in
community development
• Provide mediation services and psychosocial assessments
• Evaluate the effectiveness of counselling and social programs
• May provide public education and consultation to professionals or groups regarding
counselling services, issues and methods
• May supervise other social workers
Example Titles
• Co-ordinator of Social Work
• Medical Social Worker
• Psychiatric Social Worker
• Social Work Supervisor
• Social Worker
Work Environment
116
www.nstb.on.ca
• Child Welfare Organizations
• Hospitals
• Social Service Agencies
• School Boards
• Correctional Facilities
• Community Agencies
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Aboriginal Band Councils
• Private Practice
North Superior Training Board
Michael Kopot
Occupational Title: Student Counsellor/SocialWorker • Years in Career: 12
Training: BA, HBSW, MSW
On working in Northwestern Ontario, Michael feels that “there is probably a greater sense of
community for both the client and the practitioner, enabling both to access a network of
support services.”
Words of Wisdom
“Go for it! Don’t be discouraged by reports that Thunder Bay is in a state of economic decline.
In my field, the work is interesting, challenging and very rewarding when you can see clients
going on and successfully completing their education.”
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree in social work is required in Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island,
Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, British Columbia and the
Northwest Territories
• In Alberta, a bachelor’s degree or diploma in social work is required
• In Saskatchewan, a bachelor’s degree in social work is usually required
• Supervised practical experience is usually required
• Successful completion of provincial written and oral examinations may be required
• Registration with a provincial governing body is mandatory to practise as a social
worker in Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario
and Alberta
• Use of the titles “Social Worker” and “Registered Social Worker” is regulated in
all provinces
• Membership in a provincial association of social workers is usually required
Related Occupations
• Community and Social Service Workers (4212)
• Educational Counsellors (4143)
Michael Kopot, BA, HBSW, MSW
To be a good social worker, Michael believes that “patience, good listening skills, having a
sense of empathy, and possessing a good sense of humour” are essential skills, abilities and
personality traits.
“To be a good social worker, “patience, good listening skills, having a sense of empathy, and
possessing a good sense of humour” are essential skills, abilities and personality traits.”
What inspired Michael to enter his chosen field? Well, according to Michael, he wanted to
“actively work in mental health, [he] felt that [he] could have a positive effect on individuals in
need of help.” Primarily, Michael has worked in the area of geriatrics, although, for the past
two years Michael has counseled students at Lakehead University in the Student Health &
Counselling Clinic.
• Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors (4153)
• Managers in Social, Community and Correctional Services (0314)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $18.21/hr
North Superior Training Board
117
www.nstb.on.ca
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Fair
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 565 social workers in the Thunder Bay and area
labour force. This is a decrease since the 1996 Census. In Ontario, employment for this
occupation is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for all occupations through
the year 2007. Many social workers are employed in the health and social service systems.
Programs in these sectors are heavily dependent on public funding. The elderly
population is increasing rapidly, creating greater demand for health and social services.
In addition, because of the large size of this occupational group, replacement needs are
expected to create a large number of job openings yearly.
Employment prospects may be better for individuals with an advanced degree in social
work and experience in fields such as geriatrics and substance abuse. While good
employment growth is projected for this occupation to the year 2007 in Ontario, local
demand for social workers appears to be stable. There were 40 advertised employment
opportunities in 2004, compared to 28 in 2003, 66 in 2002, 44 in 2001, and 59 in 2000. This
occupation’s share of the Employment Insurance claimload has remained consistently low
over the past 5 years. The technological impact on this occupation is not expected to be
significant.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
545
515
25
1996
570
530
35
-4
-3
-29
% change
Training and More Information
Regulatory Body:
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers - http://www.ocswssw.org/index.asp
Professional Association:
Ontario Association of Social Workers - http://www.oasw.org/ENG/HOMEENG.HTM
Universities in Ontario Offering Social Work:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://socialwork.lakeheadu.ca/
In Ontario:
• Carelton University - http://www.carleton.ca/cu/ed4life/brochures/socialwork.html
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/socialwork.pdf
• McMaster University - http://www.socsci.mcmaster.ca/socwork/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.socialsciences.uottawa.ca/svs/eng/index.asp
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/academics/sociology/
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/
• University of Toronto - http://www.socialwork.utoronto.ca/i
• University of Waterloo - http://www.renison.uwaterloo.ca/content/social_work/index.htm
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/kings/academic_programs/
• Wilfrid Laurier University - http://www.wlu.ca/homepage.php?grp_id=30
118
www.nstb.on.ca
• University of Windsor - http://web4.uwindsor.ca/units/registrar/calendars/under2004.nsf/
• York University - http://bloodstone.atkinson.yorku.ca/projects/researchak/presentation.nsf/
disciplinesAKundergraduate?OpenForm&discipline=Bachelor+of+Social+Work+(BSW)Social+Work+(Direct+Entry)
North Superior Training Board
NOC 4153
Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors
Job Description
Family, marriage and other related counsellors assist individuals and groups of clients to
identify, understand and overcome personal problems and achieve personal objectives.
Duties
Family, marriage and other related counsellors perform some or all of the following duties:
• Interview clients, prepare case histories and assess problems
• Conduct vocational testing and psychometric assessment
• Develop and implement counselling and intervention programs to assist clients in
determining goals and means of attaining them
• Counsel clients, and provide therapy and mediation services
• Evaluate the effectiveness of counselling programs and clients’ progress in resolving
identified problems and movement toward defined objectives
• Follow up results of counselling programs and clients’ adjustments
• Prepare assessment, progress, follow-up and court reports
• May supervise other counsellors, social service staff and assistants
• May provide public education and consultation to other professionals or groups
regarding counselling services, issues and methods
• May conduct research, publish research papers, educational texts and articles and
deliver presentations at conferences
Example Titles
• Addictions Counsellor
• Bereavement Counsellor
• Child and Youth Counsellor
• Family Counsellor
• Marriage Counsellor
• Rehabilitation Counsellor
• Registered Clinical Counsellor
Work Environment
• Government Agencies
• Hospitals
• Family Therapy Centres
• Counselling Centres
• Social Service Agencies
• Private Practice
• Sex Therapist Schools
• Health Care and Rehabilitation Clinics
Training Needed
• A master’s degree in the field of counselling, mental health or a related social service
discipline is usually required
• In Quebec, a master’s degree in psychoeducation is required to practise as a
psychoeducator
• An undergraduate degree or college diploma in a social science is required for certain
areas of counselling
• Membership with a provincial association for marriage and family therapists or clinical
counsellors is required to use the title ”Registered Marriage and Family Therapist” and
“Registered Clinical Counsellor”
North Superior Training Board
119
www.nstb.on.ca
• Registered marriage and family therapists and registered clinical counsellors must meet
strict criteria involving graduate education and a period of supervised clinical work with
clients
• In Quebec, membership in the professional association is mandatory for counsellors
and psychoeducators
• Counsellors usually become specialized in a particular area through training and
experience
• Progression to social service management positions is possible with additional training
and experience
Related Occupations
• Social Workers (4152)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $16.75/hr
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Limited
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 235 family, marriage and other related
counsellors in the Thunder Bay and area labour force. This is a decrease since the
1996 Census. Local demand for family, marriage and other related counsellors appears
to have fallen off. There were 15 advertised employment opportunities in 2004, compared
to 38 in 2003, 34 in 2002, 50 in 2001, and 32 in 2000. This occupation’s share of the
Employment Insurance claimload has remained consistently low over the past 5 years.
The technological impact on this occupation is not expected to be significant.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
215
175
40
1996
340
330
10
% change
-37
-47
300
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
• Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors - http://www.oacyc.org/
• Ontario School Counsellors’ Association - http://www.osca.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Counselling Progams:
• Brescia University College
- http://www.brescia.uwo.ca/pages/proginf4.htm#BAFam
• University of Ottawa, Master’s
- http://www.education.uottawa.ca/programs/graduatestudies/counselling.html
• University of Toronto, Master’s - http://www.oise.utoronto.ca/depts/aecdcp/
• University of Western Ontario
120
www.nstb.on.ca
- http://www.uwo.ca/grad/prospective_students/programs/education.htm
• Ryerson University, Certificate
- http://ceonline.ryerson.ca/ce/calendar/default.asp?section=program&sub=cert&cert=FAMS
UP01&mode=program
North Superior Training Board
Colleges in Ontario Offering Counselling:
Locally:
• Confederation College - http://confederationc.on.ca/childyouthworker/
In Ontario:
• Cambrian College
- http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/%5Four%5Fprograms/Fulltime_programs/showpage.
cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200609NCCA.HTM
• Durham College
- http://www.durhamcollege.ca/coned/course_list.php?name= HUMAN%20SERVICES%
20COUNSELLOR&type=DIPLOMA
• Fleming College
- http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?Program Code=DA
• George Brown College
- http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/comsrv/C107.aspx#maincontent
• Northern College
- http://www.northernc.on.ca/programs/humserv/counsellor.html
• Sault College
- http://www.saultc.on.ca/depts/corppubaffairs/profiles/july2203.htm
121
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 4165
Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
Job Description
Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers conduct research, produce
reports and administer health care policies and programs.
Duties
Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers perform some or all of the
following duties:
• Assist in developing government health policy by reviewing relevant literature, conducting
interviews, collecting and analysing statistical data, and providing advice to senior managers
and officials on issues such as health promotion, regulation, standards and financing
• Design and implement health projects or programs
• Maintain, update and manage health information databases
• Compile and analyse statistical information provided by private and public health care
institutions and organizations and produce reports
• Monitor and evaluate health care programs operated by government departments and
agencies or private organizations
• Assess compliance with health standards and identify remedial action if necessary
• Conduct evaluations and assessments of health projects and programs
• Provide consulting services to clients in private establishments or government
departments or agencies
• Respond to internal and external program and policy information requests
• Produce newsletters, magazines and other documents to provide information to
association or organization members or the general public
• Present the views of an association or organization to politicians, government officials,
the media or the general public
Example Titles
• Consultant, Health Care
• Consultant, Drug and Alcohol Abuse
• Health Care Planner
• Consultant, Mental Health Programs
• Health Services Researcher
• Health Promotion Program Officer
• Policy Development Officer, Nursing Homes • Research Analyst, Health Policy
• Planning Officer, Child Health Care Programs
Work Environment
122
www.nstb.on.ca
• Community agencies
• Hospitals
• Consulting establishments
• Research institutes
• Educational institutions
• International organizations
• Professional associations
• Universities
• Non-governmental organizations
• Government departments and agencies
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree or college diploma in health science, public administration,
recreation administration or hospital administration, or a bachelor’s degree in social
science is required
North Superior Training Board
• A graduate degree in health, social science or an administrative discipline may be required
• Several years of experience in the health field as a health care professional or as a
community or social services worker are usually required
• Progression to managerial positions is possible with experience
Related Occupations
• Community and Social Service Workers (4212)
• Government Managers - Health and Social Policy Development and Program
Administration (0411)
• Managers in Health Care (0311)
• Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers (4164)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $23.70/hr
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Limited
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
70
65
0
1996
110
100
10
% change
-36
-35
-100
Training and More Information
Universities in Ontario Offering Health Policy/Public Health/Health Sciences Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University, Master’s - http://mph.lakeheadu.ca/
In Ontario:
• Brock University,Health Science - http://www.brocku.ca/communhealthsci/
• McMaster University,Health Science - http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/bhsc/
• University of Ottawa, Health Science - http://www.health.uottawa.ca/bschs.htm
• University of Ottawa, Graduate diploma - http://www.grad.uottawa.ca/programs/
certificates/health_services_policy_research/general_information.html
• Queen’s University, Health Science - http://www.queensu.ca/artsci/programs/lifescience.html
• Ryerson University, Bachelor - http://www.ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/occhealth.html
• University of Toronto, Health Science - http://www.artsandscience.utoronto.ca/ps/
academic/pdfs/index.shtml#G-I I
• University of Toronto, Public policy - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~socsci/programs/policy.html
• University of Toronto, Graduate - http://www.phs.utoronto.ca/
• University of Waterloo, Health Science
- http://www.ahs.uwaterloo.ca/prospective/hlth/index.html
• University of Western Ontario, Health Science - http://www.uwo.ca/fhs/index2.html
• York University, Health Science - http://bloodstone.atkinson.yorku.ca/projects/researchak/
presentation.nsf/disciplinesAKundergraduate?OpenForm&discipline=Bachelor
+of+Health+Studies- Health+Informatics
North Superior Training Board
123
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 4167
Kinesiologist
Job Description
This unit group includes those who oversee and administer recreation, sports and
fitness programs and activities, provide consulting services, conduct research and
develop programs and policies related to recreation, sports and physical fitness.
They are employed by federal, provincial and municipal governments, health and sports
organizations, community centres, recreational institutions, sport and fitness consulting
firms, or they may also be self-employed.
Duties
The following is a summary of main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Kinesiologists conduct fitness and human movement tests and assessments.
They design and implement programs to maintain, rehabilitate or enhance movement
and performance in the areas of sports, recreation, work and exercise
• Fitness consultants provide expert advice and consulting services to community
groups, corporations, schools and other organizations in the design and development
of fitness programs and activities
• Recreation consultants provide expert advice and consulting service to communities,
corporations, institutions and other organizations in the design and development of
recreation programs and activities
• Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts conduct research and develop
government policies related to recreation, sports and fitness
• Recreation and sports program supervisors develop, plan and co-ordinate sports,
fitness and recreation programs
• Sports consultants provide expert advice and consulting service to sports associations
and other organizations in the design, development and administration of sports
programs and activities
• Fitness appraisers conduct fitness tests and assessments, and design, develop and
deliver fitness counselling
• Exercise therapists conduct fitness tests and assessments, and design, develop and
deliver rehabilitative exercise programs in occupational and related health settings
Example Titles
• Exercise Therapist
• Kinesiologist
Work Environment
• Recreational Institutions
• Sports and Fitness Consulting Firms
• Federal, Provincial and
• Health and Sports Organizations
Municipal Governments
Community Centres
• Self-employed
Training Needed
• A university degree in recreation administration, sports administration, physical
124
www.nstb.on.ca
education, kinesiology or related discipline combined with some work experience in a
related field or a college diploma in a recreation, sports or fitness program combined
with some experience in a related field is usually required
• Kinesiologists usually require a master’s degree in kinesiology
North Superior Training Board
• Recreation and sports program supervisors require experience as program leaders or
instructors in recreation and sports. Certification in program specialization, such as
fitness or lifesaving, may also be required
• A Certified Fitness Appraiser certificate may be required for fitness consultants
and appraisers
• Recreation and sports program supervisors may progress to recreation and sport
management positions with experience
• Mobility among recreation, sports and fitness consultants may be restricted within
individual area of expertise
Related Occupations
• Program Leaders and Instructors in Recreation and Sport (5254)
• Recreation and Sports Program and Service Directors (0513)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $18.25/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
110
100
10
1996
80
80
0
% change
38
25
-
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
• Ontario Kinesiology Association - http://www.oka.on.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Programs in Kinesiology:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://www.lakeheadu.ca/
In Ontario:
• University of Guelph - http://www.uoguelph.ca/undergrad_calendar/c10/c10bsc-hk.shtml
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/humankin.pdf
• McMaster University - http://www.mcmaster.ca/kinesiology/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.health.uottawa.ca/shk/index.htm
• Queen’s University - http://www.phe.queensu.ca/
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/academics/physed/
• University of Toronto - http://www.utoronto.com/
• University of Waterloo - http://www.ahs.uwaterloo.ca/prospective/kin/index.html
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/
• University of Windsor - http://www.uwindsor.ca/kinesiology
• York University - http://www.kinesiology.yorku.ca/
North Superior Training Board
125
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 4169
Other Professional Occupations in Social Science, n.e.c.
Job Description
This unit group includes anthropologists, archaeologists, geographers, historians,
linguists, political scientists, sociologists and other professional occupations in social
science not elsewhere classified.
Duties
The following is a summary of main duties for some occupations in this group:
• Anthropologists conduct studies of the origin, development and functioning of human
societies and cultures and of human evolution, changing physical characteristics and
geographical distribution
• Archaeologists study artifacts (objects and structures) to reconstruct past economic,
social, political and intellectual life
• Geographers study and analyse the spatial distribution and interrelationship of physical,
biological, cultural and social patterns
• Historians conduct research into one or more phases or aspects of past human activity
and interpret and document findings
• Linguists study the origin, structure and development of languages and apply linguistic
theory to problems in teaching, translation and communications
• Political scientists conduct research into the theory, origin, development,
interrelationships and functioning of political institutions, political movements and
individual political behaviour
• Psychometricians develop psychological tests, scales and measures, and may
administer or apply and interpret such tests, scales and measures. Psychometrists
administer and score psychological tests, usually under the supervision of a registered
psychologist
• Sociologists study the development, structure, social patterns and interrelationships
of human society
• Other social science professionals included in this group specialize in particular
areas of social sciences and humanities disciplines. These include criminologists
(specialists in the study of crime and criminals), gerontologists (specialists in the
phenomena and problems of ageing), graphoanalysts (specialists in handwriting
analysis), and others
Example Titles
• Gerontologist
• Psychometrist
Work Environment
• Universities
• Throughout private and public sectors
Training Needed
• A master’s or doctorate degree in the discipline is usually required
• Specialization within each occupation occurs through specialized university
126
www.nstb.on.ca
study or through experience
North Superior Training Board
Valerie Szematowicz
Occupational Title: Counsellor/ Psychometrist • Years in Career: 18
Training: HBA in Pscyhology, Masters in Psychology
“An interest in psychology and human behaviour” was the inspiration for Valerie to become a
psychometrist. For the past 18 years, Valerie has combined her skills and abilities in
psychometry with that of being a student counsellor at Lakehead University.
Related Occupations
• College and Other Vocational Instructors (4131)
• Psychologists (4151)
• Secondary School Teachers (4141)
• Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers (4164)
• University Professors (4121)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $25.90/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
50
50
0
1996
40
35
0
% change
25
43
-
Training and More Information
Professional Association:
Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists
- http://www.oaccpp.ca/
“Don’t go into a career for the money. Develop self-awareness. Practice self-care.”
Words of Wisdom
“Don’t go into a career for the money. Develop self-awareness. Practice self-care.”
Valerie Szematowicz
Valerie believes that to be good in her field, one needs to have “a non-judgmental, openattitude,” as well as an ability to relate well with people from diverse backgrounds and
experiences.” Last, but not least, Valerie believes that listening skills are of a high importance
in her line of work.
Ontario Gerontology Association - http://www.ontgerontology.on.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Psychology Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://psychology.lakeheadu.ca/
North Superior Training Board
127
www.nstb.on.ca
In Ontario:
• Brock University - http://www.psyc.brocku.ca/
• Carleton University - http://www.carleton.ca/psychology/
• University of Guelph - http://www.psychology.uoguelph.ca/
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/calendar/psychology.pdf
• McMaster University - http://www.science.mcmaster.ca/Psychology/psych.html
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/psychology/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.socialsciences.uottawa.ca/psy/eng/scol.asp
• Queen’s University - http://pavlov.psyc.queensu.ca/
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/~psychnet/
• Ryerson University - http://www.ryerson.ca/psychology/
• University of Toronto - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~lifesci/psych-handbook/index.html
Universities in Ontario Offering Gerontology Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://gerontology.lakeheadu.ca
In Ontario:
• University of Guelph
- http://www.uoguelph.ca/undergrad_calendar/
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/?file=calendar/gerontology.php
• McMaster University - http://www.socsci.mcmaster.ca/gerontology/
• University of Ottawa, French only - http://www.socialsciences.uottawa.ca/fra/index
• Ryerson University, certificate
- http://ce-online.ryerson.ca/ce/calendar/default.asp?section=program&sub=cert&cert=GE
• University of Toronto, Diploma - http://www.wdw.utoronto.ca/
• University of Waterloo - http://www.ahs.uwaterloo.ca/hsg/
128
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 4212
Community and Social Service Workers
Job Description
Community and social service workers administer and implement a variety of social
assistance programs and community services, and assist clients to deal with personal
and social problems.
Duties
Community and social service workers perform some or all of the following duties:
• Interview clients to obtain case history and background information
• Assess client’s relevant skill strengths and deficits
• Assist clients to sort out options and develop plans of action while providing necessary
support and assistance
• Assist clients in locating and utilizing community resources including legal, medical,
financial assistance, housing, employment, transportation, assistance with moves, day
care and other referral services
• Prepare intake reports
• Counsel clients living in group homes and half-way houses, supervise their activities
and assist in pre-release and release planning
• Participate in the selection and admission of clients to appropriate programs
• Assess and investigate eligibility for social benefits
• Meet with clients to assess their progress, give support and discuss any difficulties
or problems
• Refer clients to other social services
• Advise and aid recipients of social assistance and pensions
• Provide crisis intervention and emergency shelter services
• Implement and organize the delivery of specific services within the community
• Implement life skills workshops, substance abuse treatment programs, behaviour
management programs, youth services programs and other community and social
service programs under the supervision of social services or health care professionals
• Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment programs by tracking clients’
behavioural changes and responses to interventions
• Maintain contact with other social service agencies and health care providers involved
with clients to provide information and obtain feedback on clients’ overall progress
• Co-ordinate the volunteer activities of human service agencies, health care facilities and
arts and sports organizations
• Maintain program statistics for purposes of evaluation and research
Example Titles
• Addictions Worker
• Child and Youth Worker
• Crisis Intervention Worker
• Family Service Worker
• Group Home Worker
• Mental Health Worker
• Rehabilitation Worker
• Social Services Worker
• Youth Worker
North Superior Training Board
129
www.nstb.on.ca
Work Environment
• Mental health agencies
• Group homes
• Social service
• Correctional facilities
and government agencies
and other establishments
• School boards
Training Needed
• Completion of a college or university program in social work, child and youth care,
counselling or other social science or health-related discipline is usually required
• Previous work experience in a social service environment as a volunteer or in a support
capacity may replace formal education requirements for some occupations in this
unit group
• Social service workers may be required to be a member of a provincial regulatory body
in some provinces
• Progression to professional occupations in social services, such as family and marriage
counsellors, social workers, and probation and parole officers, is possible with
additional training and experience
Related Occupations
• Educational Counsellors (4143)
• Employment Counsellors (4213)
• Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors (4153)
• Managers in Social, Community and Correctional Services (0314)
• Probation and Parole Officers and Related Occupations (4155)
• Program Leaders and Instructors in Recreation and Sport (5254)
• Social Workers (4152)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $17.45/hr
Employment Prospects
Thunder Bay & Region - Good
At the time of the 2001 Census there were 775 community and social service workers
in the Thunder Bay and area labour force. This was an increase of 230 individuals for
this occupation making it one of the few occupations in this area to show an increase
in employment since the last Census.
In Ontario, employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the
average for all occupations through the year 2007.
Most employment opportunities for this occupation are found in the service sector,
primarily in noninstitutional health services such as community mental health and
addictions clinics. A significant number of jobs are also affiliated with government
agencies in areas such as income maintenance, social services and corrections.
Some job opportunities can also be found in the private sector.
130
www.nstb.on.ca
While good employment growth is projected for this occupation to the year 2007 in
Ontario, local demand for community and social service workers appears to be stable.
There were 141 advertised employment opportunities in the first half of 2004, compared
to 89 in 2003, 149 in 2002, 226 in 2001, and in 2000. This occupation’s share of the
Employment Insurance claimload has remained consistently low over the past 5 years.
The technological impact on this occupation is not expected to be significant.
North Superior Training Board
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
710
675
35
1996
545
500
45
% change
30
35
-22
Training and More Information
Professional Body:
Ontario Association of Social Workers - http://www.oasw.org/
Regulatory Body:
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers - http://www.oasw.org/
Colleges in Ontario Offering Social Service Worker Programs:
Locally:
• Confederation College - http://confederationc.on.ca/socialservice/
In Ontario:
• Algonquin College
- http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/fulltime_programs/programOverview.
aspx?id=0432X1FPT&
• Cambrian College
- http://www.cambrianc.on.ca/_Our_Programs/Full-time_programs/showpage.
cfm?cboPrograms=/fulltime/html/termprograms/200609CCPG.HTM
• Canadore College
- http://www.canadorec.on.ca/Programs/FullTime/HumanServices/010210.cfm
• Centennial College - http://www.centennialcollege.ca/applied/ssw/
• Fanshawe College - http://www.fanshawec.on.ca/programs/20067/ssw1.asp
• Fleming College
- http://www.flemingc.on.ca/Full-time/ProgramDisplay.cfm?ProgramCode =SW-SWF
• Humber College - http://postsecondary.humber.ca/01221.htm
• Lambton College
- http://www.lambton.on.ca/Programs/programhtml?PROGCODE=C030
&LASTRECORDID=1879
• Loyalist College - http://www.loyalistc.on.ca/Loyalist/index_e.aspx?DetailID=240
• Mohawk College - http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/socialServWorker.html
• Niagara College - http://web.niagarac.on.ca/programs/fulltime/
• Seneca College - http://www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/SSW.html
• Sheridan College - http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/programs/0506/psswk/
• St. Lawrence College - http://www.sl.on.ca/fulltime/F0385C.HTM
• Sault College - http://www.saultc.on.ca/nativeeducation/SocialServicesWorkerNative.htm
131
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
Biotechnology in Canada
Biotechnology in Canada is a hot sector. Canada first heard the term biotechnology
not that long ago in 1983. Biotechnology is a term that describes the manipulation
of genetics by manually transferring genes from one organism to another organism.
Selective breeding of plants and animals to produce desirable hereditary traits is a
practice that has been ongoing for thousands of years. In 1983, however, the mainstream
public received a first-hand look at how biotechnology can be a driving force of its own
as an industry leader.
Biotechnology in animals has seen the cloning of “Dolly” the sheep, as well as the
manipulation of wheat to make it ‘faster-maturing.’ Modern biotechnology incorporates
technological advances, such as computers, to analyze genetic structure and function
of organisms. Once biotechnologists gain an understanding of the genetic structure
and function of an organism, they use sophisticated technology, such as ‘gene guns’
to alter the DNA of organisms by introducing genes that produce more favourable
hereditary traits.
Canada has over 300 companies primarily engaged in biotechnology, the second
largest concentration of biotechnology companies worldwide. This high position
in the biotechnology industry is primarily based on Canada’s strong science base
in natural resources and in the field of medicine. Biotechnology influences many
facets of Canadian society, including: health, agriculture, aquaculture, forestry,
and the environment.
Presently, the strongest link between Canada and the biotechnology sector is in health,
making health-related biotechnology careers highly sought after and in high demand
amongst biotechnology employers.
Within Thunder Bay and the surrounding region, biotechnology is following trends
within the rest of Canada. Thunder Bay now has a new Microarray Facility as the result
of collaboration between The Paleo DNA Laboratory at Lakehead University and Genesis
Genomics Inc. The relationship between Thunder Bay and biotechnology is relatively
new, but already strong and becoming stronger with each passing year. To find out about
various biotechnology careers, read on!
Information collected from the Biotech Resource Centre, Biotechnology Human
Resource Council - http://www.bhrc.ca/career/tools/BioteCareers/main_english.html
132
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 2112
Chemists
Job Description
Chemists conduct research and analysis in support of industrial operations, product and
process development, quality control, environmental control, medical diagnosis and
treatment, biotechnology and other applications. They also conduct theoretical,
experimental and applied research into basic chemical and biochemical processes to
create or synthesize new products and processes.
Duties
Chemists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Analyze, synthesize, purify, modify and characterize chemical or biochemical compounds
• Develop and conduct programs of analysis to ensure quality control of raw materials,
chemical intermediates or final products
• Conduct programs of sample and data collection and analysis to identify and quantify
environmental toxicants
• Conduct research to develop new chemical formulations and processes and devise new
technical applications of industrial chemicals and compounds
• Conduct fundamental and applied research into the synthesis and properties of
chemical compounds and the mechanisms of chemical reactions
• Investigate chemical aspects of the mechanisms of drug action, the diagnosis and
treatment of disease, organ function and the assessment of health
• Participate in interdisciplinary research and development projects working with
chemical engineers, biologists, microbiologists, agronomists, geologists or other
professionals
• Act as technical consultant in a particular field of expertise
• May supervise other chemists and chemical technicians and technologists
Example Titles
• Analytical Chemist
• Biochemist
• Chemist
• Clinical Chemist
• Organic Chemist
• Pharmacological Chemist
• Research Chemist
Work Environment
• Research, development, and quality control
• Laboratories
• Chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries
• Mineral, metal and pulp and paper industries
• Manufacturing, utility, health, educational and government establishments
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry or in a related discipline is required
• A master’s or doctoral degree is usually required for employment as a research chemist
• Licensing by a provincial association of chemists is compulsory in Quebec, and
available but voluntary in Ontario and Alberta
North Superior Training Board
133
www.nstb.on.ca
Andrea Aguirre
Occupational Title: Research Specialist • Years in Career: 3
Training: Honours BSc (double major in Biology and Chemistry, MSc in Chemistry
Andrea Aguirre, BSc, MSc
“Going to work everyday feeling like you are making a difference is very rewarding. Any
small advancement in cancer research is very important to achieving the ultimate goal.“
What inspired Andrea to pursue a career as a research specialist? Andrea gave us this
response: “The focus of my work is in cancer research. Unfortunately, cancer has touched
the lives of many people, including people that are close to me. So, as I was nearing the end
of university I realized that I would like to make a contribution to the fight against cancer.
This was when I decided to direct my skills toward the field of cancer research.”
When asked what skills, abilities and personality traits an individual should have to be
successful in her field, Andrea suggests that “lab skills and chemical handling skills” are
crucial because of safety issues, while “properly operating various pieces of equipment
and instrumentation” are also highly important in biotechnology. Andrea indicates that
“both working independently and being able to work as apart of a team,” as well as
“strong communication skills, a willingness to learn on a daily basis, determination, and
patience” are all necessary to be successful in her line of work.
Andrea’s response to what she likes best about working in Northwestern Ontario provides
a nice overview of the pros and cons of her job. Andrea told us the following:
“Northwestern Ontario, Thunder Bay in particular, is appealing to me because it is much
smaller than most Southern Ontario cities that provide work in my field. There are many
advantages to working in a smaller city over working in large city centres. For example,
in Thunder Bay, you don’t have to spend a great deal of time commuting to and from work
every day; so, in my opinion, the quality of life is better because you have more time to enjoy
leisure activities.
Words of Wisdom
“Going to work everyday feeling like you are making a difference is very rewarding.
Any small advancement in cancer research is very important to achieving the ultimate goal.
There are a lot of dedicated researchers in this field, possibly some that are almost ready
to graduate and enter the working world. My advice to them is that even though research
can be frustrating at times, it is important to remain patient, persistent, and focused on the
cause. If we do this we will succeed in making a significant impact in the northern health
care community.”
• Mobility between occupations in this group is possible with experience
• Mobility is possible to occupations concerned with plant management, technical
sales and the development and management of regulatory programs and teaching
professions
Related Occupations
• Chemical Engineers (2134)
• Geochemists (in 2113 Geologists, Geochemists and Geophysicists)
• Metallurgists and material scientists
(in 2115 Other Professional Occupations in Physical Sciences)
134
www.nstb.on.ca
• Molecular Biologists (in 2121 Biologists and Related Scientists)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $30.45/hr
North Superior Training Board
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Average (Ontario Job Futures)
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. The employment of these professionals is closely
related to investment in research and development.There is a tendency toward
collaboration with specialists in other fields, such as engineering. In addition to
knowledge, employers look for computer, teamwork, communication, planning and
organizing skills. Chemists will need to keep up with the rapid advancement in technical
knowledge, particularly in the biochemical field. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology
sectors will provide good employment opportunities. Graduates with a master’s or
doctoral degree, as well as individuals with strong project management skills, will have
the best prospects.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
20
15
10
1996
30
30
0
% change
-33
-50
-
Training and More Information
Professional Association: Association of the Chemical Profession of Ontario
- http://www.acpo.on.ca/index-a.htm
Universities in Ontario Offering Chemistry Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University - http://chemistry.lakeheadu.ca
In the Rest of Ontario:
• Brock University - http://www.brocku.ca/chemistry/
• Carleton University - http://www.carleton.ca/chem/
• University of Guelph - http://www.chembio.uoguelph.ca/
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/?file=calendar/chemistry.php
• McMaster University - http://www.chemistry.mcmaster.ca/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.chem.uottawa.ca/welcome.html
• Queen’s University - http://www.chem.queensu.ca/
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/academics/science/chemistry/
• Royal Military College of Canada - http://www.rmc.ca/academic/chem/index_e.html
• Ryerson University - http://ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/chemistry.html
• University of Toronto - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~physsci/chemistry/
• Trent University - http://www.trentu.ca/academic/chemistry/
• University of Waterloo - http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/chemistry/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/chem/
• Wilfrid Laurier University - http://www.wlu.ca/homepage.php?grp_id=3
• University of Windsor - http://web4.uwindsor.ca/chemistry
• York University - http://www.yorku.ca/web/futurestudents/programs/template.asp?id=343
North Superior Training Board
135
www.nstb.on.ca
Universities in Ontario Offering Biochemistry Programs:
• Brock University
- http://www.brocku.ca/fms/profiles/programs/bchm/index.phtml
• Carleton University - http://www.carleton.ca/biochem/
• University of Guelph
- http://www.chembio.uoguelph.ca/high_school/dp_biologicalchem.htm
• Laurentian University
- http://www.laurentian.ca/?file=calendar/biochemistry.php
• McMaster University - http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/biochem/
• University of Ottawa - http://www.science.uottawa.ca/welcome.html
• Queen’s University - http://meds.queensu.ca/biochem/
• University of Toronto - http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/courses/calendar/
• Trent University - http://www.trentu.ca/academic/chemistry/honours%20book.pdf
• University of Waterloo - http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/research/
• University of Windsor - http://web4.uwindsor.ca/chemistry
• York University - http://www.yorku.ca/web/futurestudents/programs/template.asp?id=327
136
www.nstb.on.ca
North Superior Training Board
NOC 2121
Biologists and Other Related Scientists
Job Description
Biologists and related scientists conduct basic and applied research to extend knowledge
of living organisms, to manage natural resources, and to develop new practices and
products related to medicine and agriculture.
Duties
Biologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Plan and conduct studies of the environment, and the population, distribution, structure
and functional characteristics and behaviour of plants and animals
• Conduct ecological and environmental impact studies and prepare reports
• Study, identify and classify plant and animal specimens
• Conduct experiments in plant or animal growth, heredity and breeding
• Prepare reports and plans for management of renewable resources
• May supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists
Microbiologists and cell and molecular biologists perform some or all of the following duties:
• Conduct research into the structure, function, ecology, biotechnology and genetics of
microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and algae
• Conduct research into the structure and functioning of human, animal and plant tissues
and cells
• Conduct studies into the identification, effects and control of human, plant and animal
pathogens and toxins
• Conduct clinical or laboratory studies to test, evaluate and screen drugs and
pharmaceuticals
• Conduct molecular or biochemical studies and experiments into genetic expression,
gene manipulation and recombinant DNA technology
• May supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists
Example Titles
• Anatomist
• Bacteriologist
• Biologist
• Cell Biologist
• Embryologist
• Geneticist
• Histologist
• Immunologist
• Microbiologist
• Molecular Biologist
• Parasitologist
• Pharmacologist
• Physiologist
• Toxicologist
• Virologist
Work Environment
• Laboratory and field settings by governments, environmental
• Consulting companies, resource and utilities companies
• Chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies
• Health and educational institutions
North Superior Training Board
137
www.nstb.on.ca
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree in biology or in a related discipline is required for biologists
• A master’s or doctoral degree in biology or a related discipline is required for
employment as a research scientist in biology
• Post-doctoral research experience is usually required before employment in academic
departments or research institutions
Related Occupations
• Biochemists (in 2112 Chemists)
• Specialists in laboratory medicine (in 3111 Specialist Physicians)
General Wage
Thunder Bay & Region - $23.70/hr
Employment Prospects
Ontario - Average (Ontario Job Futures)
Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all
occupations through the year 2009. The public sector is the largest employer of biologists.
Typically, demand for biologists is related to environmental research and monitoring. The
biotechnology and health sectors, however, are expected to be a growing source of new
employment opportunities.
There is a shift toward interdisciplinary programs, combining systems engineering with
microbiology and other scientific specialties. Computer-based competencies such as
bioinformatics and molecular modelling are also becoming more important as companies
and researchers deal with the integration of traditional and information sciences.
Graduates with a master’s or doctoral degree, as well as individuals with strong project
management skills, will have the best prospects.
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
45
45
0
1996
45
45
0
% change
0
0
-
Training and More Information
Professional Association: Canadian College of Microbiologists - http://www.ccm.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Biology Programs:
Locally:
• Lakehead University
In Ontario:
• Brock University - http://www.brocku.ca/biology/
• Carleton University - http://www.carleton.ca/biology/
138
www.nstb.on.ca
• University of Guelph - http://www.uoguelph.ca/cbs/undergrad_opportunities
• Laurentian University - http://www.laurentian.ca/?file=calendar/biology.php
• McMaster University - http://www.science.mcmaster.ca/biology/index.html
North Superior Training Board
• Nipissing University - http://www.nipissingu.ca/biology/
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology - http://www.uoit.ca/index.html
• University of Ottawa - http://www.bio.uottawa.ca/eng/welcome.php
• Queen’s University - http://biology.queensu.ca/
• Redeemer University College - http://www.redeemer.on.ca/academics/science/biology/
• Ryerson University - http://ryerson.ca/ualca/programs/biology.html
• University of Toronto - http://www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3bio/homepage/index.htm
• Trent University - http://www.trentu.ca/biology/
• University of Waterloo - http://www.biology.uwaterloo.ca/
• University of Western Ontario - http://www.uwo.ca/biology/
• Wilfrid Laurier University - http://cubic.wlu.ca/homepage.php?grp_id=4
• University of Windsor - http://www.uwindsor.ca/biology
• York University - http://cubic.wlu.ca/homepage.php?grp_id=4
139
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
NOC 2148
Other Professional Engineers, n.e.c.
Job Description
This unit group includes agricultural and bio-resource engineers, biomedical engineers,
engineering physicists and engineering scientists, marine and naval engineers, textile
engineers and other specialized engineering occupations which are not classified
elsewhere.
Duties
The following is a summary of the main duties for some occupations in this unit group:
• Biomedical engineers design and develop medical diagnostic and clinical instrumentation,
equipment and procedures; develop devices to assist persons with disabilities; advise
hospital administrators on planning, acquisition and use of medical equipment; and
modify and install or supervise installation of equipment
Example Titles
• Biomedical Engineer
• Bio-resource Engineer
Work Environment
• Hospitals
• Universities
• Research Laboratories
Training Needed
• A bachelor’s degree in an appropriate engineering discipline is required
• A master’s degree or doctorate in a related engineering discipline may be required
• Licensing by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required
to approve engineering drawings and reports, and to practise as a Professional
Engineer (P.Eng.)
• Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited
educational program, and after three or four years of supervised work experience in
engineering and passing a professional practice examination
• Supervisory and senior positions in this unit group require experience
• There is limited mobility between the engineering specializations included in this
unit group
• Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and acquire knowledge and
skills through work experience that may allow them to practise in associated areas of
science, engineering, sales, marketing or management
Related Occupations
• Biochemical and biotechnical engineers
(in 2134 Chemical Engineers)
General Wage
140
www.nstb.on.ca
Thunder Bay & Region - $32.95/hr
Employment Prospects
N/A
North Superior Training Board
Census Labour Force Data
Total
Employed
Unemployed
2001
10
10
0
1996
25
20
10
% change
-60
-50
-100
Training and More Information
Professional/Regulatory Association:
Professional Engineers Ontario - http://www.peo.on.ca/
Universities in Ontario Offering Biomedical Engineering Programs:
• McMaster University - http://msbe.mcmaster.ca/
• Queen’s University - http://www.chemeng.queensu.ca/
• University of Toronto - http://www.ibbme.utoronto.ca/scripts/index_.asp
• University of Western Ontario
- http://www.engga.uwo.ca/undergraduate/chemical_ programs1.htm
Additional Biotechnology Information:
• BioteCanada - http://www.biotech.ca/EN/
• Biotechnology Human Resource Council - http://www.biotech.ca/EN/
• Biotechnology Council of Ontario - http://biocouncilontario.com/home.htm
• Biotech Ontario - http://www.biotechontario.com/guides/overview.asp
141
North Superior Training Board
www.nstb.on.ca
is funded by
For further information, please contact:
Marg Scott, Executive Director
North of Superior Training Board/Comité de formation du Nord Supérieur
215 Red River Road, Suite 201, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 1A5
Telephone: (807) 346-2940 • Toll free:1-888-800-8893 • Fax: (807) 344-5464
email: [email protected] • website: www.nstb.on.ca
The views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect those of Employment Ontario.