Vancouver is one of Canada’s most dynamic economic hubs, fueled by strong sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, engineering, and film production. With a high cost of living and competitive job market, salaries in Vancouver tend to rank among the highest in the country. The city attracts top professionals looking for career growth, work-life balance, and access to world-class industries spanning tech innovation, advanced medical care, and global trade.

Top 100 Highest Paid Jobs In Vancouver – Following The Money

1. Surgeon

Surgeons hold one of the most critical roles in Vancouver’s healthcare system, performing complex operations to treat injuries, diseases, and life-threatening conditions. Beyond surgical expertise, they collaborate with specialists, interpret diagnostic results, and lead medical teams through high-pressure situations. Vancouver’s advanced hospitals, academic research centers, and aging population drive strong demand. With long training pathways and high responsibility, surgeons earn top compensation, reflecting the skill, precision, and life-saving impact of their work.

2. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Vancouver’s focus on mental health services and increasing awareness of psychological well-being fuels demand for these professionals. Psychiatrists combine clinical interviews, counseling, and medication management, often collaborating with psychologists and social workers. Many work in hospitals, private clinics, or community mental-health centers. Due to extensive training and the complexity of mental health care, they command high salaries in the region.

3. Orthodontist

Orthodontists correct misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, aligners, and other dental appliances. In Vancouver, a high-income population and strong emphasis on dental aesthetics and oral health contribute to steady demand. Many orthodontists operate private clinics, giving them flexibility alongside strong earnings. Their training includes dental school plus specialized orthodontic residency. Their work blends medical precision with cosmetic improvement, enhancing patients’ confidence, comfort, and long-term dental function — making orthodontics one of the city’s most lucrative healthcare careers.

4. Vice President, Operations

VPs of Operations oversee strategic planning, performance optimization, and daily functions across major industries, including tech, logistics, finance, and retail. In Vancouver’s competitive corporate landscape, they lead teams, manage budgets, and develop systems for operational excellence. This senior leadership role requires exceptional decision-making, analytical, and communication skills. With Vancouver serving as a Pacific trade hub and tech growth center, experienced operations executives are rewarded with top-tier salaries for driving organizational success at scale.

5. Corporate Lawyer

Corporate lawyers handle mergers, acquisitions, compliance issues, contracts, and corporate governance. Vancouver’s business ecosystem — including real estate, natural resources, biotechnology, and technology — creates consistent demand for legal expertise. These lawyers protect businesses from legal risks, negotiate high-value deals, and ensure regulatory adherence. Many work for major firms or as in-house counsel. The role requires years of education, intense analytical skill, and the ability to navigate complex regulations, earning them elite compensation in the region.

6. Dentist

Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, perform restorative procedures, and help patients maintain long-term dental wellness. Vancouver’s emphasis on preventive care, access to advanced clinics, and high population density supports strong demand. Many dentists also operate private practices, increasing earning potential through patient volume and specialized services. With a blend of medical expertise, surgical skills, and cosmetic dentistry offerings, dentists remain among the city’s highest-earning professionals, contributing significantly to overall community health.

7. Engineering Manager

Engineering managers oversee technical teams, guide large projects, and ensure engineering solutions meet performance and safety standards. Vancouver’s growing technology, infrastructure, and clean-energy sectors rely on experienced engineering leaders to innovate and deliver complex systems. They combine advanced engineering knowledge with project management and leadership capabilities. This role often requires years of industry experience plus specialized education. Their ability to align technical development with business goals places them among the top earners in the region.

8. IT Director

IT Directors manage technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and system reliability across organizations. In Vancouver’s expanding tech sector — including startups, software companies, and enterprise IT departments — they play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and innovation. Responsibilities include tech strategy, budgeting, vendor management, and team leadership. With rising cyber threats and digital transformation initiatives, skilled IT Directors are in high demand, commanding strong salaries due to technical depth, managerial skill, and strategic insight.

9. Pharmacist

Pharmacists ensure safe and effective medication use, counsel patients on prescriptions, and collaborate with physicians to optimize treatment plans. Vancouver’s aging demographic and strong healthcare system create consistent need for pharmacy services across hospitals, clinics, and retail settings. They must have deep knowledge of drug interactions, regulatory standards, and patient care. With critical responsibility for public health and expanding roles in immunization and chronic-disease support, pharmacists remain highly valued and well-compensated professionals.

10. Financial Manager

Financial managers oversee budgeting, forecasting, investment strategies, and financial reporting for organizations across industries. Vancouver’s strong finance sector — including banking, asset management, and real-estate finance — creates steady demand. They advise senior leaders, analyze financial health, and ensure regulatory compliance. This high-responsibility role requires analytical skill, business insight, and financial expertise. With Vancouver serving as a West-Coast financial hub, financial managers benefit from competitive pay and opportunities for advancement into executive leadership.

11. Physician

Physicians provide diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care across primary and specialty disciplines. Vancouver’s strong healthcare infrastructure and long wait times for medical services drive ongoing demand for doctors. They evaluate symptoms, order tests, interpret results, and develop treatment plans to manage acute and chronic conditions. With high responsibility and years of medical education, physicians earn significant compensation. Many also pursue specialized certifications or private practice, expanding income potential and contributing to the region’s overall health-care capacity.

12. Software Architect

Software architects design the high-level structure of complex software systems, ensuring scalability, security, and long-term maintainability. Vancouver’s booming tech ecosystem — including gaming, AI, fintech, and biotech software — relies on architects to guide development teams and technology decisions. They blend coding expertise with strategic planning and technical leadership. This role demands deep experience and advanced problem-solving ability. With companies competing for top engineering talent, software architects enjoy excellent salaries and strong career stability.

13. Data Scientist

Data scientists analyze large datasets to uncover insights, guide business decisions, and build predictive models. Vancouver’s tech expansion, global logistics presence, and growing biotech and finance sectors fuel demand for advanced data-analytics expertise. They use programming, machine learning, and statistical modeling to forecast trends and solve operational challenges. This role requires strong math, coding, and communication skills. With data-driven decision-making becoming increasingly crucial, data scientists are among the city’s most sought-after tech professionals.

14. Marketing Director

Marketing directors lead brand strategy, advertising campaigns, and digital-growth initiatives across industries. Vancouver’s competitive corporate environment — from tech startups to global consumer brands — requires experienced marketing leaders who can analyze markets, guide creative teams, and drive customer engagement. They oversee budgets, manage cross-functional programs, and measure ROI. With expanding e-commerce and digital-media landscapes, marketing directors who blend creativity with analytics command high salaries and play a key role in business success.

15. Construction Manager

Construction managers oversee large-scale building projects, including residential towers, commercial developments, and public infrastructure. Vancouver’s strong real-estate market and ongoing urban development make this a high-demand field. Responsibilities include budgeting, scheduling, contractor supervision, and compliance with safety and building codes. The role requires engineering or construction experience, excellent planning skills, and leadership abilities. Major development activity and complex building standards support competitive salaries for those who can keep projects on time and on budget.

16. Pilot (Commercial/Airline)

Commercial pilots operate passenger and cargo aircraft, ensuring safe and efficient travel across domestic and international routes. Vancouver’s status as a major gateway to Asia and the U.S. drives high aviation demand, with strong employment opportunities through major airlines and cargo carriers. Pilots undergo rigorous training, maintain strict licensing, and operate under high responsibility and safety standards. Their role includes navigation, weather monitoring, and emergency preparedness — earning strong compensation for expertise and precision.

17. Real Estate Lawyer

Real estate lawyers advise clients on property purchases, development agreements, zoning issues, and commercial leasing. Vancouver’s world-renowned real-estate market — one of the most valuable in North America — creates continual need for legal oversight. They ensure compliance, negotiate contracts, resolve disputes, and support large development projects. Knowledge of land-use laws and regulatory frameworks is essential. With high-value transactions and ongoing property demand, real estate lawyers achieve strong earning potential in the city.

18. Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners provide advanced clinical care, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing treatment plans. Vancouver’s healthcare system increasingly relies on NPs to expand access, especially in family practice, geriatrics, and primary care settings. They hold graduate-level training and clinical experience, bridging gaps between nursing and medical practice. With rising patient demand and physician shortages, nurse practitioners enjoy strong job security, high autonomy, and competitive compensation while playing a crucial role in community health.

19. Civil Engineer

Civil engineers design and oversee infrastructure projects, including bridges, transit systems, water networks, and urban development. Vancouver’s rapid population growth, seismic engineering needs, and sustainability focus drive strong demand for skilled engineers. They ensure projects meet structural, environmental, and safety standards. Civil engineers collaborate with planners, architects, and contractors, requiring strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. With large-scale development and infrastructure upgrades, the role offers competitive salaries and long-term career stability.

20. UX/UI Designer

UX/UI designers create intuitive digital experiences and visually appealing interfaces for websites, apps, and software platforms. Vancouver’s thriving technology and gaming industries rely on talented designers to improve usability, accessibility, and customer engagement. They blend graphic design, psychology, and product strategy, working closely with developers and marketing teams. As user-centered product design becomes a competitive advantage, skilled UX/UI designers enjoy strong career growth, flexible work options, and competitive compensation in Vancouver’s digital economy.

Top 100 Highest-Paid Jobs in Vancouver (Full List)

#	Role	Typical Salary Range (CAD)
1	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	$250,000 – $600,000+
2	Chief Financial Officer (CFO)	$200,000 – $350,000+
3	Chief Technology Officer (CTO)	$180,000 – $320,000+
4	Chief Operating Officer (COO)	$180,000 – $300,000+
5	Chief Information Officer (CIO)	$170,000 – $280,000+
6	Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)	$160,000 – $260,000+
7	Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)	$160,000 – $250,000+
8	Chief Legal Officer / General Counsel	$180,000 – $300,000+
9	Chief Product Officer (CPO)	$170,000 – $270,000+
10	VP of Engineering	$170,000 – $260,000+
11	Surgeon	$300,000 – $500,000+
12	Anesthesiologist	$300,000 – $450,000+
13	Psychiatrist	$250,000 – $350,000+
14	Physician (GP)	$200,000 – $300,000+
15	Dentist	$120,000 – $250,000+
16	Pharmacist	$110,000 – $140,000+
17	Nurse Practitioner	$100,000 – $130,000+
18	Optometrist	$120,000 – $180,000+
19	Director of Nursing	$120,000 – $160,000+
20	VP of Product Management	$180,000 – $280,000+
21	VP of Sales (Tech)	$170,000 – $300,000+ (OTE)
22	Engineering Manager / Director	$150,000 – $230,000+
23	Principal Software Engineer	$140,000 – $200,000+
24	Data Science Director	$150,000 – $220,000+
25	Cloud Architect	$130,000 – $190,000+
26	DevOps Manager	$130,000 – $180,000+
27	Security Director / Manager	$130,000 – $180,000+
28	Senior Product Manager	$120,000 – $170,000+
29	AI/Machine Learning Engineer	$110,000 – $160,000+
30	Enterprise Account Executive (Tech)	$100,000 – $200,000+ (OTE)
31	Technical Program Manager	$110,000 – $155,000+
32	Solutions Architect	$105,000 – $150,000+
33	Data Engineering Manager	$120,000 – $170,000+
34	UX Design Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
35	Senior DevOps Engineer	$100,000 – $140,000+
36	Senior Security Engineer	$100,000 – $145,000+
37	Law Firm Partner (Corporate)	$250,000 – $750,000+
38	General Counsel (Corporate)	$170,000 – $280,000+
39	Senior Litigation Lawyer	$140,000 – $220,000+
40	Senior Corporate Lawyer	$130,000 – $190,000+
41	VP of Finance	$150,000 – $230,000+
42	Investment Banker (Director/VP)	$150,000 – $300,000+
43	Portfolio Manager	$140,000 – $250,000+
44	Management Consultant (Sr. / Partner)	$130,000 – $300,000+
45	Actuary (Fellow)	$120,000 – $180,000+
46	Tax Director	$130,000 – $190,000+
47	Finance Director	$130,000 – $180,000+
48	Accounting Director	$120,000 – $170,000+
49	Audit Partner (CPA)	$200,000 – $400,000+
50	Airline Captain	$150,000 – $300,000+
51	Senior Air Traffic Controller	$120,000 – $180,000+
52	Ship Captain	$100,000 – $160,000+
53	VP of Engineering (Resources/Construction)	$170,000 – $250,000+
54	Engineering Manager (Civil/Mechanical)	$120,000 – $170,000+
55	Senior Mining Engineer	$110,000 – $160,000+
56	Petroleum Engineer (Senior)	$120,000 – $170,000+
57	Construction Project Director	$130,000 – $180,000+
58	Senior Electrical Engineer	$100,000 – $140,000+
59	Senior Mechanical Engineer	$100,000 – $140,000+
60	Senior Civil Engineer	$95,000 – $135,000+
61	Senior Geotechnical Engineer	$100,000 – $145,000+
62	VP of Sales	$160,000 – $280,000+
63	Regional Sales Director	$130,000 – $220,000+
64	VP of Marketing	$150,000 – $230,000+
65	Director of Digital Marketing	$110,000 – $160,000+
66	Business Development Director	$110,000 – $170,000+
67	VFX Supervisor	$120,000 – $250,000+
68	Animation Director	$120,000 – $200,000+
69	Senior Creative Director	$110,000 – $170,000+
70	Technical Director (VFX/Game)	$100,000 – $150,000+
71	Game Director	$130,000 – $200,000+
72	Senior Professor (Business/Law)	$120,000 – $220,000+
73	School Superintendent	$150,000 – $250,000+
74	Real Estate Development Director	$120,000 – $180,000+
75	Supply Chain Director	$110,000 – $165,000+
76	HR Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
77	Architectural Manager	$110,000 – $155,000+
78	Construction Manager	$100,000 – $140,000+
79	Pharmaceutical Sales Director	$120,000 – $180,000+
80	Senior Biostatistician	$110,000 – $150,000+
81	Clinical Research Director	$120,000 – $170,000+
82	Senior Management (Various Industries)	$110,000 – $200,000+
83	Specialized Consulting Roles	$110,000 – $230,000+
84	Senior Government Executive	$120,000 – $250,000+
85	Senior Resource-Sector Engineer	$120,000 – $180,000+
86	Marine Chief Engineer	$120,000 – $180,000+
87	Skilled Trade Supervisor (Specialized)	$100,000 – $150,000+
88	Airline Maintenance Manager	$110,000 – $160,000+
89	Senior Project Controls Specialist	$100,000 – $145,000+
90	Environmental Compliance Manager	$100,000 – $150,000+
91	Risk Management Director	$120,000 – $180,000+
92	Internal Audit Director	$120,000 – $170,000+
93	Corporate Communications Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
94	Regulatory Affairs Director	$120,000 – $180,000+
95	Quality Assurance Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
96	Facilities Management Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
97	Senior Policy Advisor	$100,000 – $145,000+
98	Economic Development Director	$110,000 – $170,000+
99	Information Management Director	$110,000 – $160,000+
100	Business Continuity Director	$110,000 – $165,000+

Closing

Vancouver’s job market reflects a thriving and forward-thinking economy where highly educated, skilled professionals benefit most. From surgeons and tech executives to engineers and finance leaders, opportunities continue to expand across high-demand industries. Whether you are planning a career move, exploring top-earning fields, or evaluating the region’s economic landscape, Vancouver remains a premier destination for competitive salaries and long-term professional growth in Canada.