Preface to Edition 2006 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC)

This volume represents the updated version of the National Occupational Classification (NOC 2001 Edition), first published in 1992. The NOC 2006 is considered a minor update with no revisions to the classification structure. The changes include the addition of new titles and the modification of descriptive content for certain NOC groups. Some changes were also made to reflect consistency between English and French and to correct errors. The update affected approximately 200 of the 520 NOC unit groups.

The original Introduction to the NOC 2001 is included with this edition, as the structural changes made for the 2001 revision are still in effect. Since then new titles have gained prominence and much of the 2006 update focused on integrating them in the classification. Certain titles that may be classified in many different groups remain problematic. However, with access to increasingly sophisticated search mechanisms, it is expected that some of these titles will be added to the classification in the next revision projected for Census 2011.

Below is a summary of the changes that were made to the English language version of the classification for the 2006 update. For changes to the French, please consult the French language publication. This summary does not identify specific content changes but provides an indication of the magnitude and types of changes that were made.

Summary of Changes for NOC 2006

1. Unit Group Title Changes

2. Overview of Changes Made to NOC 2006

3. Index of Titles

4. Job Titles Moved from one Unit Group to Another

The Introduction to the NOC 2001 Edition follows. It provides information on the classification structure and explanations of NOC concepts and classification criteria. The Skills and Labour Market Information Division within Human Resources and Social Development Canada is responsible for maintenance and further enhancement of the classification system. This is done in collaboration with the Standards Division and the Census Subject Matter Program of Statistics Canada through a joint working group process.