I believe Edmonton has more jobs available than Calgary, but Edmonton's inflation rate is just slightly less than Calgary. Both are the top highest in Canada at the moment. Would your friends in Edmonton put you up while you're getting settled? That would sure help. Edmonton's also colder in the winter than Calgary, and Calgary has winter chinooks. Depends on what's most important to you, I guess. Either Edmonton or Calgary tho'... you'll get a job.
Calgary Terry's right... there are construction projects stalled, too, because they don't have the manpower to run what they need. The house across the street from me has been waiting for MONTHS in the middle of renos and landscaping because they have to 'wait in line' until people are available to do the work.