Powered by People: Why Nuclear Means Jobs and Opportunities for Albertans

October 8, 2025

Alberta is on the cusp of something big. The proposed Peace River Nuclear Power Project is more than an energy project - it’s an investment in people, communities and long-term prosperity.

Energy Alberta is committed to making sure Albertans, including local and Indigenous communities, are at the centre of this opportunity. That means jobs for today, careers for tomorrow and business growth that will benefit the Peace Region for generations to come.


Building the Future: Jobs During Construction (2028 - 2041)

The construction phase of the Project will support thousands of workers over more than a decade. Starting in 2028, and continuing until 2041, crews of skilled tradespeople, engineers and support teams will work together to bring this vision to life.

  • Skilled Trades: Electricians, welders, pipefitters, carpenters and heavy equipment operators will be in high demand to build the plant’s physical infrastructure.
  • Civil & Structural: Concrete workers, ironworkers and crane operators will be essential in laying foundations, constructing containment structures and assembling specialized components.
  • Support Roles: Behind every worker on the ground are safety officers, quality inspectors and administrative staff ensuring the project runs safely and efficiently.
  • Technical Leadership: Engineers, project managers and supervisors will guide the project from start to finish.

For northern Alberta workers and families, this means more than a decade of stability and job opportunities close to home.


Long-Term Careers: Powering for Generations (2035 - 2115)

Once complete, the Peace River Nuclear Power Project will run for more than 80 years, creating hundreds of stable, full-time jobs that will support families for generations.

  • Plant Operations: Control room operators and maintenance technicians will ensure the plant runs smoothly and safely, 24/7.
  • Safety & Security: Safety specialists and security officers will protect both workers and the surrounding community.
  • Administration: HR, finance, procurement and management staff will provide the backbone of long-term operations.
  • Technical Support: Engineers, analysts and inspectors will apply cutting-edge expertise to keep the plant efficient and innovative.

And the benefits don’t stop at the plant gates. Indirect jobs - from equipment suppliers and service providers to local contractors - will ripple through the economy, creating opportunities for thousands more Albertans.


Beyond Science and Engineering

When people think of nuclear power, they often imagine engineers in lab coats. But the reality is much broader. Nuclear projects employ people across dozens of professions and backgrounds, including:

  • Skilled Trades: Carpenters, electricians, welders, heavy equipment operators, pipefitters, sheet metal workers, mechanics and project managers.
  • Professions: Accountants, cybersecurity specialists, communicators, health physicists, lawyers, subject matter experts, policy analysts, entrepreneurs, financial managers.  
  • Engineering, Technicians and Specialists: Scientists, chemists, nuclear engineers, civil engineers, radiation protection experts, and environmental impact specialists.

That means nuclear leads to big opportunities - whether you’re coming from a university program, a trades school or a local business.


Local Business Opportunities

The Peace River Nuclear Power Project would also be a once-in-a-generation boost for local and Indigenous businesses. Energy Alberta is committed to maximizing participation across the region. Opportunities could include:

  • Supplying construction materials like concrete, steel and lumber.
  • Providing equipment and maintenance services throughout the Project.
  • Supporting transportation and logistics to safely move people and materials.
  • Offering food services and accommodations for a construction workforce that will be there for more than a decade.
  • Delivering professional services in legal, financial, IT, communications and environmental consulting.


Training Pathways: Preparing Alberta’s Workforce

This Project isn’t just about creating jobs - it’s about building careers for the next generation. Energy Alberta is working to bring nuclear training programs closer to home, so Albertans don’t have to travel across the country to prepare for these opportunities.

  • Good News for Trades: Many existing skills in welding, carpentry, electrical work and heavy equipment operation are directly transferable to nuclear projects.
  • Future Partnerships: Energy Alberta is beginning to engage with colleges, trade schools and Indigenous training organizations to encourage the creation of tailored programs that meet the region’s needs.

How to Get Involved: Employment & Procurement Opportunities

Whether you’re a local business owner, an Indigenous entrepreneur, or a worker looking for your next career move, there are clear pathways to get involved with the Project.

Local and Indigenous suppliers are encouraged to join our procurement registry and become part of the supply chain that will power Alberta’s future. From construction materials and specialized equipment to professional services and logistics, there will be opportunities across every sector.

Thousands of good jobs will be created throughout construction and operations - and we want Albertans to be ready. Register today to receive updates on training programs and job postings and be among the first to know when hiring begins.

September 2025 Peace River Job Fair
Operations Centre
Environmental Work