http://www5.hrsdc.gc.ca/NOC/English/NOC/2011/Tutorial.aspx#8
The second digit of the NOC code represents the Skill Level for all occupations, with the exception of Management which will be discussed below.
The 4 Skill Levels, A to D, used in the NOC are identified in the second digit of the NOC code.
NOC Skill Levels
Skill Level
(alpha) Skill Level
(digit) Nature of Education/ Training
A
Occupations usually require university education. 0 or 1 University degree at the bachelor's, master's or doctorate level.
B
Occupations usually require college or vocational education or apprenticeship training. 2 or 3 Two to three years of post-secondary education at a community college, institute of technology or CEGEP
or
Two to five years of apprenticeship training
or
Three to four years of secondary school and more than two years of on-the-job training, specialized training courses or specific work experience.
Occupations with supervisory responsibilities and occupations with significant health and safety responsibilities, such as firefighters, police officers and registered nursing assistants are all assigned the Skill Level B.
C
Occupations usually require secondary school and/or occupation-specific training. 4 or 5 Some secondary school education, with up to two years of on-the-job training, training courses or specific work experience.
D
On-the-job training is usually provided for occupations. 6 or 7 Short work demonstration or on-the-job training
or
No formal educational requirements.
