Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Anesthesiologists are medical doctors who specialize in providing anesthesia to patients during surgical procedures, as well as managing pain and monitoring critical life functions. They play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and comfort before, during, and after surgery.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Internship/residency
Projected Growth: 2.6% (average)
Annual job openings: 1 300
Direct AI exposure: 6% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 53% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine. According to the wage tables, average income is $311K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $126K per year | NA per year | $311K per year | NA per year | $607K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $246K above the national average. | ||||
Anesthesiologists work primarily in hospital settings, including operating rooms, labor and delivery units, and intensive care units. They may also work in outpatient surgical centers, dental offices, or pain management clinics. Their work involves collaboration with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
Anesthesiologists are vital members of the surgical team, ensuring that patients undergo safe and pain-free surgical procedures. Their role begins with preoperative evaluation, where they assess a patient's medical condition and formulate an anesthetic plan tailored to the individual and the procedure. During surgery, they are responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring the patient's vital functions, adapting their approach as needed to ensure optimal patient safety and comfort.
The work of an anesthesiologist is highly technical and requires a thorough understanding of both pharmacology and physiology. They must be prepared to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations, particularly if a patient exhibits adverse reactions or complications. Postoperatively, they oversee the patient's recovery from anesthesia and contribute to pain management strategies.
Anesthesiologists must excel in communication, as they collaborate with a diverse team of healthcare professionals. They also need to effectively communicate with patients and their families, explaining procedures and addressing any concerns.
In Canada, becoming an anesthesiologist typically involves completing four years of undergraduate education, followed by four years of medical school leading to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Graduates then complete a five-year residency in anesthesiology, after which some anesthesiologists pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialty areas, usually lasting one to two years.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
