January 16, 2026 | Alberta

If you are considering a career in healthcare but prefer an office-based role instead of hands-on patient care, becoming a Medical Office Assistant in Alberta is a practical and rewarding option. One of the most common questions people ask before choosing this path is simple and important: how much does a Medical Office Assistant make in Alberta? 

The short answer is that Medical Office Assistants earn competitive wages, enjoy steady employment, and can enter the field with relatively short training. This article breaks down Medical Office Assistant salaries in Alberta, including average hourly pay, entry level wages, earning potential with experience, job demand, and how completing a Medical Office Administration diploma can help you access better opportunities. 

Understanding the Role of a Medical Office Assistant 

Before looking closely at salary, it helps to understand what Medical Office Assistants do and why they are essential to Alberta’s healthcare system. 

Medical Office Assistants, also known as Medical Administrative Assistants, support the daily operations of healthcare facilities. They work behind the scenes to keep clinics and offices organized and running smoothly. Typical workplaces include medical and dental clinics, hospitals, specialist practices, diagnostic centres, and allied health offices. 

Their responsibilities often include scheduling appointments, managing patient records, handling billing and insurance claims, answering phones, and maintaining confidentiality. While they do not provide medical treatment, their work directly impacts patient experience and clinic efficiency. Because healthcare services operate year-round, Medical Office Assistants are needed consistently across Alberta. 

Average Salary of a Medical Office Assistant in Alberta 

According to ALIS Alberta, Medical Office Assistants in Alberta earn an average wage of $27.55 per hour, which translates to an average annual salary of approximately $50,562 per year. 

Most Medical Office Assistants work close to full time hours, averaging about 35 hours per week, and are employed throughout the year rather than on short term or seasonal contracts. This makes the role appealing for people looking for income stability and predictable schedules. 

The wage level reflects the specialized administrative skills required in healthcare settings, including knowledge of medical terminology, billing systems, privacy regulations, and professional communication. 

Entry Level Medical Office Assistant Pay in Alberta 

For those just starting out, entry level Medical Office Assistant wages in Alberta are still competitive compared to many other administrative roles. 

Starting wages typically range from $17 to $25 per hour, with an average entry level wage of around $23.50 per hour. Where someone starts within this range often depends on factors such as education, practicum experience, and the type of healthcare facility. 

Graduates who have completed a recognized Medical Office Administration diploma and gained hands on experience through a practicum often have an advantage when negotiating starting pay. Employers value candidates who can step into the role with minimal additional training. 

How Experience Affects Medical Office Assistant Salary 

As Medical Office Assistants gain experience, their earning potential increases. With time, familiarity with clinic systems, and strong performance, wages tend to move closer to or above the provincial average. 

Experienced Medical Office Assistants in Alberta commonly earn between $29 and $35 per hour, particularly those working in busy clinics, specialty practices, or hospital settings. 

Experience can also open doors to higher responsibility roles, such as senior medical office administrator, medical billing specialist, or office supervisor. These positions often come with higher pay and additional leadership duties. 

Factors That Influence Medical Office Assistant Pay 

Several factors can affect how much a Medical Office Assistant makes in Alberta. 

Type of Employer 

Medical Office Assistants working in hospitals or large healthcare organizations may earn slightly higher wages than those in small private clinics, depending on the role and responsibilities. 

Location 

Urban areas with higher living costs or higher patient volumes may offer higher wages compared to smaller communities, although opportunities exist throughout the province. 

Education and Training 

Candidates who have completed formal post secondary training are often more competitive. Employers prefer applicants who understand healthcare office procedures, privacy legislation, and medical documentation. 

Experience and Skill Set 

Strong organizational skills, familiarity with electronic health record systems, and confidence handling billing and insurance tasks can all contribute to higher pay. 

Job Demand for Medical Office Assistants in Alberta 

Salary is only one part of the picture. Job availability matters just as much. Healthcare is one of Alberta’s most stable employment sectors. Medical Office Assistants are needed to support physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals across the province. 

Recent labour market data shows that a majority of healthcare employers in Alberta have hired Medical Office Assistants within the past two years. Many employers also report difficulty finding qualified candidates, especially those with relevant training and experience. This steady demand contributes to consistent employment opportunities and supports long term career stability. 

Is Certification Required to Work as a Medical Office Assistant in Alberta? 

There is no provincial licensing exam required to work as a Medical Office Assistant in Alberta. However, this does not mean that training is optional. Most employers strongly prefer candidates who have completed a Medical Office Administration diploma or similar post secondary program. Medical offices operate under strict privacy laws and professional standards, and employers want staff who understand these requirements from day one. Completing a diploma program demonstrates that a candidate is prepared for the realities of healthcare administration and understands the responsibilities of the role. 

How Education Can Impact Earnings 

While it is possible to find entry level administrative work without formal training, healthcare offices are different from general business environments. A Medical Office Administration diploma teaches skills that directly apply to the job, including medical terminology, billing and insurance procedures, electronic health records, transcription, and professional communication. 

Graduates who complete structured training and practical experience are often better positioned to secure stable roles, earn higher starting wages, and advance more quickly within healthcare settings. Programs like the Medical Office Administration diploma offered at CDI College are designed to prepare students specifically for medical office environments in Alberta. The curriculum focuses on real world skills and includes practical experience through a practicum or capstone project. 

Career Growth and Long Term Earning Potential 

Many people choose to remain in Medical Office Assistant roles long term because of the stability and work life balance they offer. Others use the role as a stepping stone within healthcare administration. With experience and additional responsibilities, some Medical Office Assistants move into roles such as healthcare office supervisor, medical billing specialist, or health information management positions. These roles often come with higher pay and leadership opportunities. Continuing education and on the job learning can further expand career options within the healthcare system. 

Is a Medical Office Assistant Career Worth It in Alberta? 

For people who want to work in healthcare without providing direct patient care, the Medical Office Assistant role offers a strong balance of income, stability, and manageable training requirements. With average wages around $27.55 per hour, steady demand across the province, and the ability to complete training in under a year, it is an accessible career path for many Albertans. Those who enjoy organization, communication, and working in professional environments often find this role satisfying and sustainable over the long term. 

Preparing for a Medical Office Assistant Career 

Choosing the right training program is an important step in entering the field. Employers value graduates who are confident, knowledgeable, and ready to work in real medical offices. CDI College’s Medical Office Administration diploma is designed to align with employer expectations in Alberta. The program includes training in medical terminology, billing, transcription, office procedures, and professional communication, along with hands on practical experience. Graduates also have access to Career Services support, which can help with resume preparation, interview skills, and job search strategies. 

Final Thoughts 

So how much does a Medical Office Assistant make in Alberta? On average, about $27.55 per hour, with opportunities to earn more as experience grows. Combined with steady job demand and relatively short training timelines, this career offers a practical entry point into Alberta’s healthcare sector. 

For those ready to take the next step, completing a Medical Office Administration diploma can provide the skills, confidence, and preparation needed to succeed in this role and build a stable healthcare career.