Careers in Energy Handbookenergy.novascotia.ca/.../2011-2013-Careers-in-Energy-Handbook.pdf · Careers in Energy Handbook . ... Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers 101 Industrial

Compiled by the Nova Scotia Department of Energy

gov.ns.ca/energy/

Adapted from the Nova Scotia Career Options Handbook

Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education

careers.novascotia.ca

201120112011---2013 2013 2013

Careers in Energy Careers in Energy Careers in Energy HandbookHandbookHandbook

Labour market and employment requirements are subject to change. It is recommended that the reader verify the information before making any career decisions. Please visit

careers.novascotia.ca for the most current and detailed information. To order additional copies of this publication, please contact gov.ns.ca/energy

The figures included in the occupational profiles span all sectors across Nova Scotia, not just those which are energy-related.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Business, Finance, and Administrative Occupations:

Accountants and Financial Auditors 20

Administrative Officers 21

Administrative Support Clerks 22

Advertising, Management, and Promotion Consultants 23

Clerical Workers in Finance and Insurance 26

Clerical Workers, General Office Skills 27

Clerical Workers, Office Equipment Operators 27

Customs, Ship and Other Brokers 30

Executive Assistants 31

Financial and Investment Analysts 31

Financial Planners and other Financial Officers 32

Medical Secretaries 39

Personnel and Recruitment Officers 39

Recording, Scheduling, and Distribution Occupations 41

Health Occupations:

Emergency Medical Technicians 56

Licensed Practical Nurses 58

Registered Nurse 73

Specialist Physicians 75

Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations:

Architects 81

Architectural Technicians and Technologists 82

Biological Technicians and Technologists 83

Biologists and Related Scientists 84

Biomedical, Marine and other Engineers 85

Chemical Engineer 86

Chemist 87

Civil Engineers 88

Civil, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineering Technicians 89

Computer Engineers 90

Drafting Technicians and Technologists 94

Electrical and Electronic Engineers 95

Electronics and Electrical Engineering and Instrumentation

Technicians and Technologists 96

Foresters 98

Forestry Technicians and Technologists 99

Geologists and Oceanographers 100

Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers 101

Industrial Designers 102

Information Systems Analysts and Consultants 103

Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations cont’d:

Mechanical Engineers 106

Meteorologists 107

Mining Engineers 107

Petroleum Engineers 108

Physical Sciences Technicians and Technologists 109

Professional Land Surveyors 111

Railway and Marine Traffic Controllers 112

Ship’s Captain and other Deck Officers 112

Ship’s Engineer Officers 113

Software Engineers 114

Survey Technicians and Technologists 115

Technical Inspectors and Regulatory Officers 116

Occupations in Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport:

Public Relations and Communication Officers 135

Occupations in Social Science, Education, Government

Service, and Religion:

Business Development Officers, Marketing Researchers 140

Driving Instructors and other Teachers 143

Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts 143

Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Officers 157

TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED:

Occupations Unique to Primary Industry:

Labourers in Primary Industry 167

Oil and Gas Well Drillers and Related Occupations 170

Oil and Gas Well Drilling and Services Workers 171

Underground Drillers, Blasters and Miners 172

Occupations Unique to Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities:

Assemblers and Inspectors, Electrical Appliance and

Industrial Motors 175

Assemblers, Fabricators, and Inspectors, Industrial

Electrical Equipment 176

Boat Builders, Furniture Assemblers, and Related

Occupations 177

Central Control and Process Operators in Manufacturing

and Processing 178

Electronics Assemblers, Fabricators, Inspectors and

Testers 179

Labourers in Processing, Manufacturing and Utilities 180

Machine Operators in Chemical, Plastic and Rubber

Processing 181

Machine Operators in Metal and Mineral Products

Processing 184

Machine Operators in Textile Processing 186

Machining, Metalworking, Woodworking, and Related

Machine Operators 186

Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors 187

Motor Vehicle Assemblers, Inspectors and Testers 187

Trades, Transport and Equipment Operators, And Related

Occupations:

Boilermaker 215 Commercial Divers 220 Construction and other Trades Helpers and Labourers 222 Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics 223 Contractors and Supervisors, Trades and Related 224 Crane Operators 225 Drillers and Blasters 227 Electrical Power Line and Cable Workers 228 Electricians 229 Gas Fitters 230 Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanics 231 Heavy Equipment Operators 232 Industrial Electricians 233 Longshore Workers and Materials Handlers 236 Machine Fitters 237 Machinists, Tool and Die Makers, and Tooling Inspectors 238

Oil Burners, Electrical, and other Mechanics 241

Painters, Roofers, and other Construction Trades 242

Power Station and Power Systems Operators 245

Power System Electricians 246

Public Works, Railway, Motor Transport Labourers 246

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics 247

Trades, Transport and Equipment Operators, and Related

Occupations cont’d:

Residential, Automotive, and Installers and

Repairers 248

Sheet Metal Workers 249

Stationary and Power Engineers 250

Steamfitters, Pipefitters, Sprinkler System Installers 251

Structural Metal and Platework Fabricators and

Fitters 252

Telecommunications Installation and Repair

Workers 254

Telecommunications Line and Cable Workers 255

Welders 261

nscareeroptions.ca

BUSINESS, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATIVE OCCUPATIONS

Section2_Business 07/10/10 11:17 AM Page 19

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20 Business, Finance, and Administrative Occupations Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013

Nature of the WorkAccountants plan, organize, andadminister accounting systems forindividuals and establishments. For example, they look closely ataccounting records and preparefinancial statements, reports, andincome tax returns from accountingrecords. They use this informationfor providing advisory services toemployers and clients.

There are different kinds ofaccounting jobs. For example, costaccountants specialize in helpingbusinesses improve their profitmargin. Environmental accountantsestablish the costs of compliancewith environmental regulations andthe financial impact of accidentsthat affect the environment.

Auditors are responsible forexamining financial records of indi-viduals and companies to ensureaccuracy and agreement withaccounting procedures. They alsoprepare detailed reports on auditresults and make recommendationsto improve management practices.

Corporate controllers are respon-sible for internal auditing in a business. Forensic accountantsdiscover illegal financial actions,such as electronic security viola-tions, in business and industry.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave excellent organizational,analytical, and communication skills, both oral and written. Goodjudgment, integrity, and persistenceare important. You must have anaptitude for mathematics and becapable of detailed and precisework. Business skills are essential,and you must be able to usebusiness and financial software.

Regulation RequirementsCertified General AccountantThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).

Certified Management AccountantThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).

Chartered AccountantThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).

Public AccountantsThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. A certifi-cate is required to work in thisoccupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this job title without certification).

Employment OutlookThe employment outlook for thisoccupational group is Good, whichindicates the chances of a qualifiedindividual finding work is aboveaverage.

This is a large occupational groupand a large number of jobs willbecome available in the next fewyears due to retirement or otherturnover in the work force. Also, itis expected that a number of newjobs will be created as demand forthis occupation grows. This occupa-tion is found across all industriesand organisations. Employmentlevels in this occupation tend toremain fairly stable, and employ-ment growth is expected to remainsteady. In small or medium sizedbusinesses accountants may assistin management of the business, as well as, financial duties. Demandis certainly higher for those withseveral years of work experienceand for those with accreditations.

Employment prospects forauditors and accountants haveincreased as organizations stressefficiency through cost control. Inaddition, financial and tax regula-tions often experience changes,which also sustains demand forfinancial expertise. There is moredemand for middle and senior levelchartered accountants (CA) than forless experienced CA’s and articlingstudents. Opportunities are best forthose who are certified (CA, CGA,CMA) or working towards theirdesignation. Most positions in NovaScotia are concentrated in urbancentres. However, there is demandfor accountants and financialauditors in rural areas, whereemployers often find it difficult to keep qualified people.

Typical JobsCost AccountantEnvironmental AccountantForensic AccountantAccountant

Related OccupationsBookkeepers

Accountants and Financial Auditors

Outlook

Good

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Estimated employmentin 20094,075

Estimated change inemployment between 2009and 2014Growing

Estimated openings due to growthand retirements, 2009-2014626

Estimated hourly earnings in 2009Average $31.75Minimum $17.00Maximum $60.25


Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Business, Finance, and Administrative Occupations 21

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Nature of the WorkAdministrative officers oversee andimplement administrative proce-dures, establish work priorities, andcoordinate services such as officespace, supplies, and securityservices.

SkillsTo work in this field, you needexcellent organizational and verbalcommunication skills, up-to-datecomputer skills, the ability to workas a member of a team, andfinancial management capabilities.You will have to analyse detailedinformation and prepare budgets.You must have initiative, be willingto accept new ideas, and becomfortable making decisions.

Regulation RequirementsThis occupation is not regulated bya provincial body in Nova Scotia.However, this occupation may beregulated by a federal regulatorybody.

Employment OutlookThe employment outlook for thisoccupational group is Fair, whichindicates the chances of a qualifiedindividual finding work is aroundaverage.

This occupation is found across allindustries. Opportunities are greaterin the Halifax region, where there isa large government presence, and a high number of national, regional,and local firms. There are manyworking in this occupation, andtherefore replacement of staffgenerates a lot of the positions.Administrative officers have a coordinating role, and are less likelyto be negatively affected by tech-nology than less senior administra-tive positions. Those who canperform a broad range of duties will continue to be required, whileothers may find the competition forpositions a little stronger.

Typical JobsAccess to Information and Privacy

OfficerUniversity Admissions OfficerRequirements Officer, MilitaryOffice Manager

Related OccupationsExecutive AssistantsProperty AdministratorsConference and Event Planners

Administrative Officers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkAdministrative support clerkscollect, process, and keep track ofinformation. Administrative clerksprocess forms and documents.Depending on the job, thesedocuments could be applications,licences, permits, or registrations.Personnel clerks handle informationrelated to hiring, training, labourrelations, performance, and job classification.

Court clerks call court to order,prepare records of court proceed-ings, and maintain exhibits.

SkillsYou need communication and interpersonal skills, along with a willingness to learn and adapt tocontinually changing procedures andsoftware. Accuracy is important. Youshould also be cooperative and ableto work as part of a team.


Other ConsiderationsYou should be able to adapt tochanges in technology. The wide-spread application of computertechnology to the duties performedby many clerks means that a solidfoundation in computer skills andthe ability to acquire proficiency in specialized applications is oftennecessary for entry into these occupations.


Administrative support clerks are employed throughout the publicand private sectors. This is a largeoccupational group in Nova Scotia,and on-the-job training is common.Routine administrative functions are increasingly computerized acrossthe public and private sectors, andclient self-service and self-registra-tion systems are increasinglycommon. Despite this, thereremains a focus in many organiza-tions on front-line service deliveryand customer interaction; adminis-trative support clerks often supportor deliver these services. Goodcommunication skills along withcomputer proficiency in specializedapplications are important foremployment in this occupationalgroup.

Typical JobsCustoms ClerkWard Clerk, HospitalOffice Administration ClerkHuman Resources AssistantPersonnel ClerkCourt Clerk

Related OccupationsHuman Resource Officers and

SpecialistsCollege and Other Vocational

InstructorsAdministrative OfficersExecutive AssistantsImmigration, Employment Insurance,

and Revenue OfficersClerical Workers, General Office

SkillsClerical Workers in Finance and

Insurance

Administrative Support Clerks

Outlook

Fair

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Estimated hourly earnings in 2009Average $17.25 Minimum $9.75Maximum $26.50



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Nature of the WorkAdvertising and promotion consultants assess characteristics of products or services to bepromoted, advise clients on adver-tising or sales promotion strategies,and develop and implement advertising campaigns.

Management consultants analyseand provide advice on managerialmethods and structure3 of a depart-ment or organization. For example,they conduct research to determinethe effectiveness of programs, thenpropose improvements or reorgani-zation of the operations based onthe information collected.

SkillsTo work in this field, you need goodinterpersonal skills and effectiveoral and written communicationskills. You should be organized andcapable of analytical and logicalthought. Negotiating skills andresearch skills are also important.


Other ConsiderationsMany companies are nowcontracting with outside firms to provide various professionalservices. Therefore, the number ofpeople in these occupations whowork on a contract basis is likely to increase in the future.


Professionals in this group areemployed by managementconsulting firms and advertisingagencies and throughout the publicand private sectors, or are self-employed as consultants. Levels of competence and experience can vary widely, and there is noregistration requirement to practice.In the Metro Halifax area theoutlook is positive for continuedgrowth in the occupation, as busi-nesses continue to search forincreased productivity. Self employ-ment and contract work is commonin this occupational group.

Typical JobsAdvertising Account ExecutiveManagement ConsultantPromotions Specialist

Related OccupationsAccountants and Financial AuditorsIndustrial and Manufacturing

Engineers

Advertising, Management, and Promotion Consultants

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkThese clerical workers perform anddocument routine financial transac-tions. Activities can include book-keeping and accounting; classifying,storing, and recording information;transferring data into accounts andrecords; paying and receivingmoney; answering telephones; andgreeting clients and customers.

Bank tellers process financialtransactions and provide informationon related banking products andservices. Customer service represen-tatives answer inquiries and provideinformation regarding an establish-ment’s goods, services, and policies.They also provide customer servicessuch as receiving payments andprocessing requests for services.Payroll clerks process and verifypayroll information. Collectorscollect payments on overdueaccounts and bad cheques.

SkillsGood communication and interper-sonal skills are important, alongwith the ability to work as part of a team. You need basic mathemat-ical skills, and you should becomfortable handling basic financialtransactions. Your work must beaccurate, and you should enjoyrepetitive tasks. You must befamiliar with computers and bewilling to learn and adapt to contin-ually changing office equipment andsoftware.


Other ConsiderationsThe widespread application ofcomputer technology to the dutiesperformed by many clerks meansthat a solid foundation in computerskills is often necessary for entryinto these occupations. As well, youshould be able to adapt to changesin technology.


For financial services tellers, theincreased use of automated bankingmachines and online and telephonebanking has decreased the numberof vacancies in this occupation.Many tellers are employed part-timeduring peak business hours. AcrossNova Scotia, the number of bankingbranches has declined over the pastfew years, reducing employmentopportunities for this occupation.Similarly, banking and insurance and other financial clerks have beenaffected by this trend. Demand for accounting clerks is often for part-time or casual work. Most full-timejob openings result from attrition.The increased automation offinancial information and the use of specialized software require thataccounting clerks have a goodunderstanding of computer tech-nologies. Demand for payroll clerkshas lessened in the past few years as increased productivitythrough the use of computersoftware has eliminated manyroutine tasks.

Typical JobsPayroll OfficerBank TellerAccounting ClerkInsurance ClerkReal Estate ClerkCollections OfficerPayroll ClerkBenefits OfficerFinancial Customer Services

Representative

Related OccupationsBookkeepersClerical Workers, General Office

SkillsAdministrative Support Clerks

Clerical Workers in Finance and Insurance

Outlook

Fair

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Estimated change inemployment between 2009and 2014Stable





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Nature of the WorkThese clerical workers work withspecialized equipment and systems,such as computerized telephonesystems, invoicing and inventorymanagement software, and desktoppublishing software. They areinvolved in transferring data intoaccounts and records, paying andreceiving money, and preparingcheques for payroll. Data entryclerks input information frominvoices, forms, or records, andverify accuracy of data. Desktoppublishing operators use desktoppublishing software and equipmentto design, lay out, and producecamera-ready copy.

Telephone operators operatetelephone systems to advance andassist in the completion oftelephone calls.

SkillsTo work as an office equipmentoperator, you need manualdexterity, the ability to sit still forlong periods of time, and tolerancefor repetitive tasks. You must havegood communication and interper-sonal skills, along with a willingnessto learn and adapt to continuallychanging equipment and software.


Other ConsiderationsThe widespread application ofcomputer technology to the dutiesperformed by many clerks means

that a solid foundation in computerskills is often necessary for entryinto these occupations. As well, youshould be able to adapt to changesin technology.


Employment opportunities differfor the various occupations includedin this group. Employment growth is projected to be the greatest fordesktop publishing operators.However, this is a small occupa-tional group and although retire-ments are expected to contribute to job openings, the number ofopenings will be limited. There is

limited employment growth anticipated for data entry clerks,and casual or term employment is common. Most full-time jobopenings become available due toattrition. Call centres are commonemployers of this occupation.

Typical JobsComputer TypesetterDesktop Publishing OperatorData Entry ClerkTelephone Operator

Related OccupationsClerical Workers, General Office

SkillsGraphic Arts TechniciansGraphic Designers

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Fair

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Estimated change inemployment between 2009and 2014Declining



Nature of the WorkClerical workers perform clerical and typing duties. Activities mightinclude classifying, storing, andrecording information; operatingoffice equipment; schedulingappointments and meetings;answering telephones; and greetingclients and customers. Hospitaladmitting clerks interview patientsto obtain and process information.File clerks file papers, records,documents, and other material.

SkillsGood communication and interper-sonal skills are important, alongwith being able to work as part of a team. You must be familiar withcomputers and willing to learn andadapt to continually changing office

equipment and software. Your workmust be accurate, and you shouldenjoy repetitive tasks.


Other ConsiderationsThe widespread application ofcomputer technology to the dutiesperformed by many clerks meansthat a solid foundation in computerskills is often necessary for entryinto these occupations. As well, youshould be able to adapt to changesin technology.


Little employment growth isexpected for this occupational groupin the coming years. Opportunitiesare best for workers who canperform a wide range of clericalduties and have computer skills.Retirements and attrition willcontribute to some job openings.Job openings are often casual orpart-time, and hiring throughemployment agencies is common.Call centres are a source of employ-ment for this occupational group.Clerical workers are employedthroughout many industries and this

occupational group is not generallysensitive to overall economic conditions.

Typical JobsAdmitting ClerkFile ClerkAdministrative AssistantOffice AssistantHealth Records TechnicianReceptionistSwitchboard Operator

Related OccupationsAdvertising, Management, and

Promotion ConsultantsLibrary and Archive Technicians and

Assistants

Clerical Workers, General Office Skills

Outlook

Fair

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Clerical Workers, Office Equipment Operators


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Nature of the WorkBrokers negotiate commercialdealings on behalf of their clients.For example, customs brokers makesure that goods being sent toanother country or shipped intoCanada will move easily from onecountry to another.

To ensure that goods are not heldup at a border, customs brokersarrange for the release of goodsand payment of duties and taxes.They might also advise their clientson export and import restrictions,permit requirements, tariff classifica-tion, and other customs-relatedmatters.

Other brokers in this categoryinclude ship brokers and gasbrokers. Ship brokers might buy and sell ships and arrange for registration on behalf of shipowners, or negotiate the buyingand selling of cargo space. Gasbrokers negotiate the buying andselling of gas on a wholesale basis.

SkillsTo work in this field, you needexcellent communication and inter-personal skills. You must have goodnegotiation skills and be attentiveto detail. You must be efficient andaware of customer needs.


Other ConsiderationsThe majority of people in theseoccupations work full-time and forthe full year. Most work between 30 and 40 hours per week.

Employment OutlookThe employment outlook for thisoccupational group is Limitedprimarily due to a small number of individuals employed in theprovince, resulting in few job opportunities.

This is a small occupationalgroup, with little turnover, so thenumber of openings would be low.However, specific knowledge isrequired to do the job, andemployers can have some difficultyin finding experienced, certifiedworkers at times. There is littleunemployment in the group. Theremay be some opportunities forpeople with the right skills to enterat a lower level and train in theoccupation with certain employersas well. A background in a businessrelated field would be an asset.

Increased global trade and a busytransportation sector seem to bodewell for this occupation, althoughemployment growth may be offsetsomewhat by increased efficiencyand automation. As regulations andactivity in a given area around inter-national trade can fluctuate, thescope and amount of activity canalso vary for customs brokers, andlong range predictions can bedifficult.

Typical JobsGas BrokerCustoms BrokerShip Broker

Related OccupationsSecurities Agents, Investment

Dealers, and TradersInsurance Agents and Brokers

Customs, Ship and Other Brokers

Outlook

Limited

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Estimated employmentin 200960






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Financial and Investment Analysts

Nature of the WorkFinancial analysts and investmentanalysts collect financial and invest-ment information about companies,examine and analyse the informa-tion, and provide investment adviceand recommendations to clients.Portfolio managers manage largeinvestment portfolios for pensionfunds, mutual funds, corporations or individuals.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave excellent organizational,analytical, and communication skills,both oral and written. Goodjudgment, integrity, and persistenceare important. You must have anaptitude for mathematics and becapable of detailed and precisework. Business skills are essential.



Excellent organizational, analyt-ical, and communication skills arerequired for this occupation. Manytrue financial analysts work out of the main headquarters of businesses and institutions, whichare located in big cities. However,as the pool of highly qualified,experienced analysts is not large,

there are opportunities for work inthe field in our province. Banks andcredit institutions have expandedtheir range of financial services,which has created some demand forthis occupational group. There hasbeen increasing activity in theHalifax area in the financial servicesfield, as several companies havemoved to the area recently.

Experience using financialsoftware is very important for thisoccupation. Furthermore, there aregreater opportunities for those withan MBA or those registered as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Typical JobsPortfolio ManagerFinancial AnalystMoney Market AnalystResearch Associate, Financial

ServicesInvestment Analyst

Related OccupationsSecurities Agents, Investment

Dealers, and TradersFinancial Planners and Other

Financial OfficersEconomists and Economic Policy

Researchers and Analysts

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Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkExecutive assistants coordinateadministrative procedures, publicrelations activities, and conductresearch for elected officials andcorporate executives.

SkillsTo work in this field, you needexcellent communication, organiza-tional, and negotiation skills. Youmust have initiative and be willingto accept new ideas and take risks.You must be able to analysedetailed information accurately andquickly in order to make decisions.You need good computer skills.



In addition to computer skills,executive assistants need goodorganizational and communicationskills. As for administrative officers,executive assistants have a coordi-nating role with a requirement for a variety of skills and duties whichwill remain in demand and are not

as negatively affected by tech-nology as more routine clericaltasks. However, while a fairly largegroup, there are not as manyexecutive assistants as administra-tive officers. Skills are certainlytransferable between the two occupations, and there may becompetition for positions frompersons with a wide variety of backgrounds, including occupations in public relations and communications.

Some traditional executiveassistant positions have evolvedinto administrative duties for unitsor departments as opposed to directreporting to one executive of theorganization. Executive assistantpositions are sometimes used fordevelopmental purposes to prepare

employees for management relatedopportunities. This position issometimes used to provide developmental opportunities forpromising staff for managementpositions. Opportunities are greaterfor those who have four to five

years of related experiencecombined with a wide range of skills, including exceptionalcommunication and computer skills.

Typical JobsExecutive Assistant

Related OccupationsAdministrative OfficersConference and Event PlannersSecretaries

Executive Assistants

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkFinancial planners develop personalfinancial plans for their clients. They address such issues as cashmanagement, insurance, invest-ments, and retirement planning.Financial examiners and inspectorsreview financial institutions toensure compliance with regulations.Financial investigators look intopossible unethical conduct bypeople or companies that trade insecurities or provide relatedfinancial services.

Underwriters provide funds fornew issues of stocks and bonds,and negotiate with corporations and governments to determine thenature and terms of the new securi-ties. Trust officers administer estate,personal, charitable, and othertypes of trusts. Mortgage brokersobtain financial information fromclients, and apply for and negotiatemortgage loans.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave excellent organizational,analytical, and communication skills, both oral and written. Goodjudgment, integrity, and persistenceare important. You must have anaptitude for mathematics and becapable of detailed and precisework. Business skills are essential.



Most bank branches offerfinancial planning services andproducts to customers creatingdemand for financial officers. Otherfactors contributing to demand arethe wide range of financial invest-ment products and servicesavailable in the market now froman increasing number of companiesSelf-employment in this occupationusually requires experience in thebanking or investment field andvarious training programs.

This is a fairly large occupationalgroup in the Metro Halifax area andopportunities will occur through thereplacement of workers, particularlyfinancial planners and advisors. As well, opportunities have beenincreasing in banks and financialinstitutions as they now offerspecialized financial services(financial and estate planning, trustservices, mutual fund sales, etc.).The use of mortgage brokers alsoseems to be increasing. Peopleinterested in working in this occupa-tion should have successfullycompleted the Canadian SecuritiesCourse or obtained their mutualfund license.

Typical JobsTrust OfficerMortgage BrokerFinancial PlannerFinancial ExaminerSecurities UnderwriterInvestment Advisor, Personal

Finances

Related OccupationsFinancial and Investment AnalystsSecurities Agents, Investment

Dealers, and TradersEconomists and Economic Policy

Researchers and AnalystsBusiness Development Officers,

and Marketing Researchers andConsultants

Financial Planners and Other Financial Officers

Outlook

Good

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Nature of the WorkSecretaries perform a variety ofadministrative duties in support of their employers. Activities caninclude scheduling appointmentsand maintaining a calendar,answering telephones, receivingand answering correspondence,ordering office supplies, maintainingfiles and record managementsystems, and preparing andmanaging budgets, expenseaccounts, and financial records.Medical secretaries interviewpatients to complete forms,documents, and case histories;initiate and maintain confidentialmedical records and files; and typemedical records and other reportsrequiring knowledge of medicalterminology.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, you need excellent grammar andcommunication skills. Accurate andfast typing speed is essential. Youshould have a working knowledgeof computers, word processingsoftware, and general officeequipment. Interpersonal skills and the ability to work with othersare important.



As with most clerical occupations,medical secretaries need to havegood computer skills. It is a fairlylarge occupational group, soreplacement positions occur.However, while health care employ-ment in general is expected toincrease, the use of technology maylimit significant growth within thisoccupation, as might the fact thatmuch of the growth may occuroutside traditional public settings.

One area of key responsibilitythat remains significant in this occu-pation, unlike secretaries in general,is the need for specific expertise inmedical terminologies, the precise

documentation of the data that isutilized and the highly confidentialnature of sensitive client informa-tion. There is a higher than averagestability with medical secretariesstaying with their doctor(s) formany years, which reduces theturnaround of openings forpermanent positions. Manyopenings appear to be part time,and a medical secretary may workfor more than one employer.

Typical JobsMedical SecretaryWard Secretary

Related OccupationsClerical Workers, General Office

SkillsCourt Recorders and Medical

Transcriptionists

Medical Secretaries


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Outlook

Fair

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Personnel and Recruitment Officers

Nature of the WorkHuman resources (or personnel)officers identify and advertise jobvacancies, recruit candidates, andassist in the selection and reassign-ment of employees.

SkillsTo work in this field, you needexcellent communication, organizational, and negotiationskills. You must have initiative andbe willing to accept new ideas andtake risks. The ability to analysedetailed information accurately andquickly is necessary in order tomake decisions. Familiarity withcomputers would be helpful.



Personnel and RecruitmentOfficers are found across all indus-tries, generally in larger organiza-tions. Competition is expected toremain strong among job seekersbecause of the number of qualifiedpost-secondary graduates looking

for positions in this field. But therehas been a focus on all humanresource related activity in recentyears which is expected to continue,and new jobs will likely be created.Opportunities are greater for thosewith three to five years relatedwork experience and CertifiedHuman Resources Professional(CHRP) accreditation.

The trend of most large organiza-tions in recent years has been toconsolidate some corporate services,including personnel functions. Somecompanies may often use

agencies to do their recruitingoften rather than hire their ownpersonnel. This has had a limitingeffect on demand for in-housepersonnel officers. However,

competition for skilled employees in some industries has createdincreased work for recruitingofficers.

Typical JobsHuman Resources OfficerPersonnel OfficerRecruitment SpecialistStaffing Analyst

Related OccupationsHuman Resources Officers and

Specialists

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Nature of the WorkThis group of occupations involvesstoring and moving supplies, andscheduling and dispatchingemergency vehicles and transporta-tion equipment. Parts clerks sort,store, and issue parts and suppliesfor use and sale. Production clerkscoordinate and speed up the flow ofwork and materials within an organ-ization and monitor the progress ofconstruction projects.

Truck schedulers are responsiblefor preparing routes and schedules,with an emphasis on time and cost-efficiency. Purchasing and inventoryclerks process purchasing transac-tions and maintain inventories ofmaterials, equipment, and stock.Shipping and receiving clerksprepare shipping documents, packgoods for shipping, inspect receivedgoods, and maintain internal recordsystems. Dispatchers use telecom-munications equipment to sendemergency vehicles and to coordi-nate the activities of drivers andother personnel.

SkillsTo work in these fields, you must beorganized and attentive to detail.Your work must be accurate. Goodcommunication skills are important.You must be able to work as part of a team. You need computer skillsand the ability to work with tech-nology. Emergency dispatchers mustbe able to work in a high-stressenvironment.



This is a large occupational groupin the province, as there is a largeemployer base and significantemployment and activity in thetrade industry, which employs manyamong this group. They are alsofound across most other industries.Therefore there are a fair amount ofopportunities for employment.Competition, however, is muchhigher for the better paying jobs,where stronger computerknowledge and experience areusually required.

Many of the duties of purchasingand inventory clerks may becombined with similar occupationssuch as shippers/receivers or partsclerks among some employers.Mobility is good between theserelated occupations. The employ-ment setting and working conditionsfor dispatchers can vary widely(working with taxis, truck trans-portation, security companies, asemergency (911) dispatchers, etc.).Knowledge of the industry andexperience are assets.

Typical JobsInventory ClerkAmbulance DispatcherParts ClerkShipping and Receiving ClerkTraffic Control ClerkTruck Scheduler

Related OccupationsEmergency Medical TechniciansAir Traffic Control OccupationsLongshore Workers and Materials

Handlers

Recording, Scheduling, and Distributing Occupations


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Fair

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HEALTH OCCUPATIONS

Section4_Health 07/10/10 11:21 AM Page 47

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56 Health Occupations Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013

Nature of the WorkParamedics provide pre-hospitalemergency medical care to patientsand transport them to hospitals orother medical facilities for furthermedical attention.

A Paramedic Level I may work as part of a ground ambulancecrew, emergency department triage,or dispatch communications. A Paramedic Level III may work aspart of a ground ambulance crew orflight crew, in dispatch communica-tions, or as an emergency depart-ment paramedic. A basic lifesupport (BLS) crew consists of twoParamedics Level I, while anadvanced life support (ALS) crewmust have at least one ParamedicLevel III.

Duties include lifesaving pre-hospital care such as defibrillation,giving medications, advancedairway management, and transportto a medical facility. Additionally,paramedics must keep detaileddocumentation, provide testimonyin a court of law, and maintainambulances and equipment.

SkillsParamedics work in a physicallydemanding environment and mustmaintain a high level of strengthand fitness. They are often involvedin highly stressful situations thatrequire the ability to make accurate,rapid decisions that can greatlyaffect the health of a patient.Effective communication skills areessential, as the paramedic mustroutinely interact with patients,family members, health careproviders, and other emergencyservices, including fire and policeagencies.

Regulation RequirementsParamedicsThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work inthis occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsPeople in these occupations areusually required to work irregularhours, evenings, weekends, andholidays.


An ageing population willcontinue to create demand in manyhealth care professions, includingparamedics. The current levels inNova Scotia are Emergency MedicalDispatcher (EMD), Primary CareParamedic (PCP), Intermediate CareParamedic (ICP), Advanced CareParamedic (ACP) and Critical CareParamedic (CCP). EHS is no longerregistering new ICP’s. Most demandis for PCP and ACPs for the groundservice, and most opportunitiesbegin on a casual basis untilpositions in the bargaining unitbecome available. Most Critical CareParamedics in the province work forthe Life Flight air service, or withcritical care transfer ambulances.There are a limited number ofgraduates each year from schools in Atlantic Canada, and there can be competition for graduates fromemployers in various areas. In NovaScotia, the ground ambulancesystem is regulated by the Department of Health and managedby a private company, EmergencyMedical Care, Inc. Employees mustbe trained to provincially setstandards. This occupational groupcan have a higher than normalattrition rate due to stress but thoseemployed tend to stay due to thelimited number of employers. As a result, the occupation remainsrelatively stable. The College ofParamedics of Nova Scotia (CPNS)establishes standards, policies, andguidelines for paramedics.

Typical JobsEmergency Medical TechnicianAdvanced Care ParamedicCritical Care ParamedicPrimary Care ParamedicParamedic

Related OccupationsRecording, Scheduling, and

Distributing Occupations

Emergency Medical Technicians

Outlook

Fair

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58 Health Occupations Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013

Nature of the WorkLicensed practical nurses (LPNs)provide physical and supportive careto patients of all ages within acontrolled nursing situation. LPNsuse their knowledge to recognizevariations from normal to determinewhen to report changes in patientcondition.

LPNs work independently orunder the supervision of a physicianor registered nurse, depending onthe level of care and observationneeded.

Shift work is typical in such anoccupation.

SkillsYou should enjoy caring for peopleof all ages. Good communicationskills and interpersonal skills arevery important. Physical demandsinclude moving and lifting others,and spending long periods of timeon one’s feet. You must be able tocope with stress and occasionalemergency situations.

Regulation RequirementsLicenced Practical NursesThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work inthis occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsChanges in the health-care deliverysystem in Nova Scotia might affectjob opportunities in these occupa-tions, as well as the location andtype of employers. Growth willoccur in other health-care organizations involved in providingcommunity-based health care andhome care.


An ageing population willcontinue to create opportunities forLicensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).New employment opportunities areoften casual and relief. Employersusually hire on a casual basis andselect from casual staff to fill part-time and full time positions as theybecome available. Opportunities forLPNs should be generated fromretirements in the near term, as the Canadian Institute for HealthInformation listed almost one thirdon Nova Scotia LPN workforce is 50 years of age or older. All thesefactors create good employmentopportunities.

While hospitals employ a largenumber of licensed practical nurses,opportunities may be fewer and acertain experience or specialty maybe an asset to work in certain units.There are more job openings innursing homes and through thehome health care network as thehealth care system shifts from insti-tutional to home care for peoplewith chronic illnesses and disablingconditions. The occupation is consid-ered a growth area with additionalopportunities coming from generalturnover because employmentlevels are relatively high. Employersand educators agree the role of the LPN is expanding in the everchanging healthcare environment.To work in this profession in NovaScotia you must be a member ofthe College of Licensed PracticalNurses of Nova Scotia (CLPNNS).

Typical JobsLicensed Practical Nurse

Related OccupationsRegistered NursesContinuing Care Assistants and

Health Support Workers

Licensed Practical Nurses

Outlook

Good

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Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Health Occupations 73

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Nature of the WorkRegistered nurses (RNs) provideprofessional services to patients tomaintain and restore health, andthey assist in the management ofillness or injury. Nurses have avariety of roles, including direct-careprovider, health teacher, consultant,administrator, and researcher.Registered nurses may specialize in nursing practice areas such as the operating room, obstetrics (new mothers), mental health,emergency or critical care, pediatrics(children), geriatrics (elderly), reha-bilitation, oncology, and community,public, and occupational health.

Nurses also work in teaching,research, and management. Nursesin managerial positions coordinatethe activities of other registerednurses and nursing supportpersonnel to guarantee safe andeffective patient care. Nurse practi-tioners work in collaborative rela-tionships with doctors to applyadvanced nursing knowledge suchas diagnosing and treating illnessesand injuries, implementingprograms to promote health andprevent illness and injury, orderingX-rays, ordering and interpretinglaboratory tests, and prescribingmedications.

SkillsTo practise nursing, you should havea desire to respond to theemotional, physical, and socialneeds of people. You should alsohave skills and aptitudes in interper-sonal relationships, communication,emotional stability, critical thinking,good judgment, and creativity. Goodhealth and physical stamina mightalso be required.

Regulation RequirementsRegistered NursesThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work inthis occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).


An aging population will continueto create demand for many types ofhealth care professionals, includingregistered nurses, nursing unitmanagers, and supervisors. Themajority of these positions arefound in public health, nursinghomes, and hospitals. Also, this is a large group of workers, andtherefore a lot of positions arecreated through replacement needs.Also, the Nurses Union and largeemployers continue to warn of theaging nursing population and thatthe situation may lead to a drasticnursing shortage in the near future.Shortages exist across health care,particularly in critical care units andin some rural areas of the province.Opportunities for registered nursesshould be generated from retire-ments in the near term. Opportuni-ties to be a head nurse orsupervisor are often due to internalpromotions. Also, there is not a large difference in pay ratesbetween registered nurses andnursing supervisors, which maymake some of the positions difficultto fill. Recent efforts to increase thenumber of continuing care facilitiesfor the aging population in NovaScotia have increased demand forregistered nurses. Most areas of thecountry have had difficultiesrecruiting nurses, which means localemployers have to compete withemployers nationally.

RNs must have a degree innursing and be registered with theCollege of Registered Nurses ofNova Scotia. To work in critical careunits, nurses must complete thecritical care course. Most registerednurses work in hospitals or long-term care facilities, but the numberof nurses employed in home care,private clinics, and communityhealth agencies is increasing. Nursepractitioners are beginning toappear in the health field in NovaScotia. Job responsibilities areincreasing as the recruitment fordoctors and emergency servicescontinue. Despite the overall needfor nurses, many openings are part-time or casual due to budget orother restrictions, especially for lessexperienced nurses.

Typical JobsCommunity Health NurseClinical Nurse SpecialistHospital Staff NurseNurse ResearcherNursing SupervisorPatient Care CoordinatorPrimary Care NurseNurse Practitioner

Related OccupationsLicensed Practical Nurses

Registered Nurses

Outlook

Good

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Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Health Occupations 75

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Nature of the WorkSpecialists have in-depth knowledgeand particular skills in a specificmedical field. There are manyspecialties, which can be broadlygrouped into clinical medicine, laboratory medicine, and surgery.

Examples of specialists in clinicalmedicine include anesthetists, whoadminister anesthetics and controlpain during surgery; gynecologists,who study and treat disorders of the female reproductive system;internists, who specialize indisorders of organs such as heart,lungs, kidneys, and stomach; pedia-tricians, who care for infants andchildren; psychiatrists, whospecialize in disorders of the mind;and oncologists, who treat cancer.These doctors diagnose and treatthe diseases, physiological andpsychological disorders, and injuriesof patients. This can includeexamining patients; ordering labora-tory tests, X-rays, and other diag-nostic procedures; prescribing andadministering medications and treat-ments; performing surgical proce-dures; acting as a consultant toother physicians; conductingmedical research; teaching; andperforming related tasks.

Specialists in laboratory medicinestudy the nature, cause, develop-ment, and effect of diseases inhumans. They supervise laboratoryactivities and might act as consult-ants to other physicians. Patholo-gists and medical biochemists fallinto this category.

Specialists in surgery, of course,supervise and perform surgery. Theyassess their patients to determinethe appropriate procedures and alsoact as consultants to other physi-cians. This group includes generalsurgeons and specialized surgeons,such as cardiac surgeons and ortho-pedic surgeons.

SkillsCompassion, sensitivity, and a desireto help people are important.

Physicians must take finalresponsibility for their decisions andthe effects they have on patients’lives. Therefore, emotional stability,ethics, maturity, and good judgmentare essential. Excellent interpersonaland communication skills areimportant. You should be able toinspire confidence and put people atease. You must be willing to contin-ually update your knowledge andskills. Good health and stamina areimportant, as physicians often worklong hours.

Regulation RequirementsPhysiciansThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work inthis occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsMost physicians are self-employedand administer their servicesthrough private practices. Most arepaid on a fee-for-service basis, soearnings depend on the fees paidby the government for variousservices and the number of patientsserved. Some physicians are paidthrough alternative funding plans.


An ongoing shortage of specialistphysicians throughout the provinceand beyond ensures good employ-ment prospects. Specialist physi-cians are in demand in severalsurgical and clinical specialties.Increased health needs from anaging population contribute toopportunities for this occupation.Specialist physicians are normallyemployed at the local hospitals andhealth care centres. The rural areashave been particularly hard hit bythe ongoing shortage with existingphysicians either retiring or movingout of the area. Physicians in NovaScotia are regulated by the Collegeof Physicians and Surgeons of NovaScotia (CPSNS).

Typical JobsGynecologistAnesthetistOncologistPediatricianPsychiatristSurgeon

Related OccupationsChiropractorsFamily Physicians

Specialist Physicians

Outlook

Good

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NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCESAND RELATED OCCUPATIONS





Outlook

Fair

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Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations 81

Architects

Nature of the WorkArchitects plan and develop designsfor construction and renovation ofcommercial, institutional, and resi-dential buildings.

They must consult with clients todetermine type, style, and purposeof renovations or new buildingsbeing considered; prepare sketchesand models to communicate designintent, and prepare detailedconstruction documents includingdrawing and specifications. Archi-tects also conduct environmentaldesign studies, including environ-mental assessments; arrangecontracts; and supervise construc-tion.

SkillsThe duties of an architect require a number of skills: design, techno-logical, managerial, communication,and supervisory. Architecturalstudies require an understanding ofindividual and social needs, andknowledge of humanities, fine arts,and technology. Well-roundedpersonal and academic experienceis helpful, as well as experience indrawing, craft, and computer appli-cations. Architecture students oftenbenefit from previous classes infields such as anthropology, arthistory, engineering, literature,mathematics, philosophy, andphysics.

Regulation RequirementsArchitectsThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).


Professional architects mayparticipate in a wide range ofdesign activities, such as furnishingsand house designs, spatial organiza-tion and urban design, historicrestoration, and adaptation to newbuildings. Demand for architects islinked to growth in the constructionindustry, especially commercial andindustrial projects. Construction issensitive to cyclical changes in theeconomy, and architectural firmsface strong competition for jobsduring recessions. Retirements canbe expected to contribute to jobopenings.

The market is expected tochange somewhat in the comingyears, and architects will need torespond to the needs of personswith disabilities and the elderly, and the demands of an increasinglyenvironmentally conscious clientele.Computer-aided design is becomingprevalent in this occupation, andthose familiar with CAD technologywill have better employmentprospects. Most architects are self-employed or work for small firms.

Typical JobsArchitect

Related OccupationsCivil EngineersBiomedical, Marine and Other

Engineers





Outlook

Fair

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82 Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013

Architectural Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkArchitectural or building technolo-gists and technicians providetechnical assistance to professionalarchitects and civil designengineers. They conduct research,prepare drawings and architecturalmodels, prepare contract andbidding documents, and coordinatework done by others. They could bethe lead supervisors on majorconstruction projects.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldbe interested in architecture anddesign and have an interest inconstruction and the variousbuilding trades. Grade 12 math andphysics are recommended. Youshould enjoy detailed and precisework. A good imagination andcreativity would be helpful.Computer skills and good communi-cation skills, both written and oral,are important.


Other ConsiderationsAlthough there are no significantseasonal patterns of unemploymentthroughout the year, employmentlevels can vary from year to year as economic conditions change andaffect the amount of constructionactivity.


Architectural technologists and technicians are employed byarchitectural and construction firmsand by governments. Employmentgrowth is linked to the constructionindustry, especially commercial andindustrial projects. ComputerAssisted Drafting (CAD) skills areessential in gaining employment.Experience with geographic information systems GIS, GPS) and mapping is an asset.

Typical JobsArchitectural Design TechnicianArchitectural Design TechnologistsBuilding TechnicianBuilding Technologist

Related OccupationsCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial

Engineering Technicians and Technologists

Mapping and Related Techniciansand Technologists





Outlook

Fair

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Biological Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkBiological technologists and techni-cians support scientists, engineers,and others working in the fields ofagriculture, microbiology, molecularbiology, and related areas. Forexample, biological technologistsconduct tests and laboratoryanalysis in support of quality controlin food production, sanitation, phar-maceutical production, and otherfields. They also perform experi-ments in agriculture, animal andplant breeding, biology, andbiomedical research.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldenjoy technical work and have aninterest in science. A high degree of manual dexterity and mechanicalability might be necessary. You mustbe precise and analytical, and ableto work alone or as part of a team.Good oral and written communica-tion skills are important. Computer-based competencies, such asbioinformatics and molecularmodeling, are becoming animportant part of this occupation astraditional and information sciencesbecome integrated. Fieldwork canrequire physical stamina.


Other ConsiderationsOngoing training is important forthis occupation to keep up withinformation and technologychanges. People in these occupa-tions usually work regular hours,but fieldwork and experimentalfollow-up could result in irregularhours.


Employment of this occupationalgroup is tied to research and devel-opment funding from the public andprivate sectors. Computer-basedcompetencies, such as bioinfor-matics and molecular modeling, are becoming an important part of this occupation as traditional and information sciences becomeintegrated. Ongoing training isimportant for this occupation tokeep up with information and tech-nology changes. Some emergingfields for biological technicians and technologists are molecularmedicine, gene therapy, signal transudation, and genomics. As withmany other areas, growth in thenumber of publicly funded positionsmight continue to be limited byspending restraints. Opportunitiesfor this occupation are best in theHalifax area.

Typical JobsAgricultural TechnicianFish Hatchery TechnicianAquaculture TechnicianWildlife Biology TechnicianForensic Laboratory Technologist

Related OccupationsElectronics and Electrical


Biologists and Related ScientistsMedical Laboratory TechnologistsMedical Laboratory TechniciansConservation and Fishery OfficersAgricultural and Fish Products

InspectorsForestry Technicians and

Technologists





Outlook

Fair

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Biologists and Related Scientists

Nature of the WorkBiologists conduct basic and appliedresearch to increase our under-standing of living organisms, tomanage natural resources, and todevelop new practices related tomedicine and agriculture.

Biochemists study the chemicalcomposition of living things.Molecular biologists study life at the molecular level, which is thefoundation for biotechnology.

Botanists study plants and theirenvironment. Zoologists studyanimals, their origins, behaviour,diseases, and life processes. Marinebiologists study plants and animalsliving in water, specifically saltwaterorganisms.

Ecologists study the relationshipsamong organisms and betweenorganisms and their environments.They look at the effects of influ-ences such as population size, pollutants, rainfall, temperature, and altitude.

People in these occupationsgenerally work regular hours inoffices and laboratories, thoughsome conduct fieldwork and on-sitestudies.

SkillsTo work in this field, you must becomfortable working with instru-ments, apparatus, and chemicals.You should be observant of details,enjoy research, and have goodjudgment for scientific and adminis-trative decision making. The abilityto communicate and co-operatewith others is important, as scien-tists often work in teams. You needbasic computer and mathematicalskills. You must have physicalstamina to do field research inremote areas.


Other ConsiderationsDiversification of the Nova Scotiaeconomy could provide some jobopportunities for biologists withskills appropriate for use in thepharmaceutical and health sciencesindustries.


While there is some growth in areas related to biotechnology,these are very specialized jobs and in many cases require doctorallevel education. Persons in thisoccupational group are employed in laboratory and field settings bygovernments, environmentalconsulting companies, resource and utilities companies, chemical,pharmaceutical and biotechnicalcompanies, and health and educational institutions. However, a minimum of a master’s degree in biology or a related field isgenerally required for thesepositions.

Occasional opportunities exist inboth the fish processing sector andgovernment regulatory bodies,generally for contract or term work.Diversification within Nova Scotia’seconomy may lead to more opportunities for biologists withskills appropriate for use in thehealth and environmental sectors.

Typical JobsBotanistGeneticistEcologistMolecular BiologistMarine Biologist

Related OccupationsFarm Management Specialists

and Agricultural ConsultantsBiological Technicians and

Technologists





Outlook

Fair

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Biomedical, Marine, and Other Engineers

Nature of the WorkIn general, these occupationsinvolve design and coordination ofprojects related to practical applica-tions of engineering.

Agricultural and bio-resourceengineers design and developmachinery, structures, equipment,and systems related to agricultureand food processing.

Biomedical engineers design anddevelop medical diagnostic andclinical instrumentation, equipment,and procedures. They might alsodevelop devices to assist peoplewith disabilities or advise hospitaladministrators on medicalequipment. If necessary, they willrecommend modifications andinstall or supervise installation of the equipment.

Engineering physicists and engi-neering scientists conduct researchand develop processes, programs,and equipment to expand funda-mental knowledge in the appliedsciences and engineering and tosupport the practical application of this knowledge.

Marine and naval engineersdesign and develop ships, barges,tugs, dredges, submarines, floats,and buoys. They also design associ-ated marine power plants andpropulsion systems and oversee the building, maintenance, andrepair of vessels and marinesystems.

Textile engineers design anddevelop processes, equipment, andprocedures for the production offibres, yarns and textiles.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, you need persistence and goodjudgment. The ability to thinkanalytically and logically isimportant. You must be able tocommunicate and co-operate withothers, as engineers often work inteams. You need leadership andproblem-solving skills are. Computerexperience is important.

Regulation RequirementsEngineersThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work inthis occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).


Canada’s aging population and afocus on health issues will increasethe demand for better medicaldevices and equipment designed by biomedical engineers. Marineengineers are responsible forselecting ships’ machinery, and for the design of mechanical, electrical, fluid, and control systemsthroughout the vessel. Some marineengineers serve aboard ships tooperate and maintain thesesystems. Halifax is a busy port andplanned redevelopments to deepenthe port may spur job growth in thecoming years.

Typical JobsAgricultural EngineerBio-resource EngineerNaval EngineerTextile EngineerMarine Architect

Related OccupationsMechanical EngineersPhysicists and AstronomersFarm Management Specialists and

Agricultural ConsultantsBiologists and Related ScientistsChemical EngineersShip’s Engineer Officers






Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkChemical engineers apply the princi-ples of chemistry and engineeringto solve problems involving theproduction or use of chemicals. For example, they research, design,and develop chemical processes,and supervise the operation ofindustrial, chemical, plastics, phar-maceutical, and food processingplants. They also perform dutiesrelated to chemical quality controland environmental protection. Theymay specialize in the products andprocesses of a particular industry,such as pulp and paper manufac-turing, petroleum refining, orenergy processing.

Whether involved in chemicalprocess engineering design orchemical process plant operations,the chemical engineer is expectedto protect the public and the environment by ensuring that theprocesses operate in a safe manner.

SkillsYou should be interested in the useand application of chemicals inprocess industries. Good observationskills and the ability to think analyti-cally and logically are important.You should be patient and curious,and enjoy problem-solving andcarrying out experiments. The abilityto communicate and co-operatewith others is necessary, asengineers often work in teams.Computer skills are also veryhelpful.


Other ConsiderationsEngineers should be prepared tokeep up to date with changingtechnology. Some work in an officemost of the time, while others workin laboratories, industrial plants, or construction sites where theyinspect, supervise, and solve on-siteproblems.


Chemical Engineers are tradition-ally employed in refineries, pulpand paper, as well as offshore gas.Chemical engineers have becomemore involved in the environmentalindustry, which has created demandin recent years. Demand is normallyfor intermediate and seniorengineers. Recruitment for thisoccupation for the opportunities thatdo occur in the local area is mostoften done on a provincial ornational scale.

Typical JobsPetrochemical EngineerRefinery EngineerEnvironmental Chemical EngineerIndustrial Waste Treatment EngineerBiochemical Engineer

Related OccupationsPhysical Sciences Technicians and

TechnologistsChemists





Outlook

Fair

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Chemists

Nature of the WorkChemists conduct research tosupport industrial operations,product and process development,quality control, environmentalcontrol, medical diagnosis andtreatment, biotechnology, and otherapplications.

Some chemists analyse, purify,and modify compounds and ensurequality control of materials andproducts. Others investigatechemical aspects of medical treat-ments for diseases.

Improvements in instrumentationhave made it possible to look at biological processes at themolecular level. This has openedthe doors of physiology andmedicine to techniques ofchemistry, such as nuclear magneticresonance imaging.

SkillsTo work in this field, you must becomfortable working with delicateinstruments and apparatus. Theability to concentrate on detail andto work independently is essential.You should be persistent, curious,precise, and accurate in your work.Both oral and written communica-tion skills are important. Computerexperience would also be helpful.


Other ConsiderationsThere are no significant seasonalpatterns of unemployment in theseoccupations. Continued diversifica-tion of the manufacturing sector inNova Scotia could generate somejob opportunities for workers withthe appropriate skills.


The employment of chemists is closely related to investment inresearch and development. Thereare very few employers for thisoccupation in the province. OceanNutrition Canada, with locations in Halifax and Mulgrave, employsanalytical chemists, organicchemists, biochemists, and natural-product chemists within its Researchand Development laboratories.Chemists are also conductingresearch at Dalhousie and SaintMary’s University, with the help of funding through organizationssuch as the Natural Sciences andEngineering Research Council ofCanada.

Typical JobsFood ChemistIndustrial ChemistBiochemistAgricultural ChemistOceanographic Chemist


TechnologistsGeologists and OceanographersBiologists and Related ScientistsChemical Engineers






Outlook

Good

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Nature of the WorkCivil engineers plan, design, andsupervise the construction andmaintenance of many kinds ofprojects: buildings, bridges, roads,railways, dams, tunnels, ports, anddocks; water supply and sewagesystems; and transportationsystems.

Specializations include foundationanalysis, building and structuralinspection, surveying, and municipalplanning. Civil engineers consultwith clients and other members of engineering teams and conductresearch to determine projectrequirements; develop constructionspecifications and procedures;evaluate and recommend appro-priate building and constructionmaterials; and conduct technicalanalysis of survey and field dataand prepare reports. Some work in offices most of the time, whileothers work in laboratories, indus-trial plants, or construction siteswhere they inspect, supervise, andsolve on-site problems.

SkillsTo work in this field, you should beinterested in planning and designingbuildings, bridges, dams, roadways,and other infrastructure. Problem-solving and decision-making skillsare essential. You should bepersistent, curious, and able to thinkin an analytical and logical manner.The ability to communicate and co-operate with others is important,as engineers often work in teams.You need computer skills.


Other ConsiderationsMany civil engineering jobs dependon government-funded infrastructureprojects, which often vary from yearto year in number and size.


Employment prospects areconsidered good for intermediateand senior engineers. Demand forthis occupation has grown nation-ally, with employers reportingcurrent and future shortages for civil engineers. Employers generallyhave difficulty in finding civilengineers with significant workexperience and candidates withhighly sought after qualificationsmay be hired, even whenemployers are not activelyrecruiting. Also, it is sometimeschallenging to find qualified candidates for rural areas.

The area of environmental engineering has grown within this occupation and offers greateropportunities. Participation in a co-op study program is recom-mended by many employers. Civil engineers have become moreinvolved in the environmentalindustry, such as waste watertreatment. This occupational grouphas an aging workforce and retire-ments may lead to job openings inthe next few years.

Typical JobsConstruction EngineerHydro Technical EngineerEnvironmental EngineerMunicipal EngineerTransportation Engineer

Related OccupationsProfessional Land SurveyorsCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial






Outlook

Fair

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Civil, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineering Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkTechnicians and technologists incivil, mechanical, and industrialengineering provide technicalsupport and services related to their respective fields. There are anumber of specialized occupationsin this group.

For example, mechanical engi-neering technologists and techni-cians help engineers design anddevelop machinery and robotics bymaking sketches and rough layouts.They also record data, compute andanalyse results, and write reports.Some mechanical engineering tech-nologists and technicians test andinspect machines and equipment inmanufacturing departments, or workwith engineers to eliminate produc-tion problems.

Civil engineering technologistsand technicians help civil engineersplan and build highways, buildings,bridges, dams, and water treatmentsystems. They might estimateconstruction costs and specifymaterials to be used. Quantitysurveyors analyse costs and prepareestimates on civil engineering,architectural, structural, electrical,and mechanical constructionprojects.

Industrial engineering technolo-gists and technicians providetechnical support services in thedevelopment of productionmethods, facilities, and systems,planning, estimating, measuring,and scheduling of work. Construc-tion estimators prepare costestimates on construction projects.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldenjoy technical work and mathe-matics and have an interest inscience. You might need a highdegree of manual dexterity andmechanical ability. You must beprecise, analytical, and able to work alone or as part of a team.Computer skills and good oral andwritten communication skills areimportant. Fieldwork can demandphysical stamina.

Regulation RequirementsEngineering Technicians and TechnologistsThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).


Employment of this occupationis linked to Nova Scotia’s manufac-turing sector and is forecast forsteady growth which is expected tomaintain and increase employmentgrowth for this occupationalgrouping. This industry is continu-ously undergoing modernization andit is important to keep up to datewith new technologies and informa-tion. The demand for technologistsand technicians often mirrors that of their engineer counterparts, withcompanies sometimes finding itmore cost-effective to have technol-ogists perform some duties oftenperformed by an engineer. Mechan-ical engineering technologists andtechnicians work closely withmechanical engineers in a teamenvironment. The growing use of electronics in machinery andprocess controls has led to a needfor dual trades between mechanical,electrical, and electronics engineering.

The Naval Dockyard in Halifax hasa strong demand for mechanicaltechnologists, with a large portionof their staff due to retire in thenext four years. Non-residentialconstruction activity may increaseopportunities and there is apotential to provide clients withengineering and data managementservices. Most opportunitiesavailable are for those that arehighly qualified, preferably withhands-on manual experience,however companies are becomingmore willing to hire recentgraduates and train on the job.

Typical JobsConstruction EstimatorAeronautical TechnologistPulp and Paper Manufacturing

TechnologistProfessional Quantity SurveyorCAD/CAM Programmer

Related OccupationsTechnical Inspectors and Regulatory

OfficersIndustrial DesignersSurvey Technicians and

TechnologistsArchitectural Technicians and

TechnologistsContractors and Supervisors, Trades

and Related






Outlook

Good

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TComputer Engineers

Nature of the WorkComputer engineers research, plan,design, develop, and test computersand related equipment. Fieldsinclude communications, image andsignal processing, and robotics andartificial intelligence. Activities ofcomputer hardware engineers caninclude designing and coordinatingthe development of computers andrelated equipment; supervising theinstallation, modification, andtesting of computers; and super-vising technicians and technologists.

SkillsYou should enjoy problem solving,be able to think analytically andlogically, and be interested in tech-nology and the development ofcomputer systems and equipment.Strong math skills and effectivecommunication skills are veryimportant. Creativity is helpful.


Other ConsiderationsRapid changes in computer tech-nology mean that people in thisfield should be prepared to keepabreast of new developments incomputer hardware, software, andnetworking technologies.


Most opportunities available arefor those that are highly qualified,however companies will often bring in some recent graduates.Organizations with offices inmultiple locations are now makinguse of high-speed Internet connec-tions to transfer data from onelocation to another, which requirecomputer engineers to integratenetwork systems and ensure thatreliable and secure infrastructure is established. They are typicallyemployed by larger companies.Halifax Metro has approximately 76 percent of the Information Technology employment in NovaScotia, and has a greater proportionof larger firms compared to the restof the province. Provincial reportsfrom the information technologyindustry in Nova Scotia shows antic-ipated job growth in all InformationTechnology (IT) sectors.

Typical JobsMicrowave Systems EngineerComputer EngineerComputer Systems EngineerComputer Hardware Engineer

Related OccupationsElectrical and Electronic EngineersSoftware EngineersElectronics and Electrical







Outlook

Fair

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TDrafting Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkDrafting technologists and techni-cians prepare engineering designs,drawings, and related technicalinformation. They might work alone,as part of an engineering team, orin support of engineers, architects,or industrial designers. Drafting technologists operatecomputer-aided design (CAD) anddrafting stations, develop andprepare design sketches, and writetechnical reports. Drafting techni-cians develop and prepare engi-neering drawings, plans, diagrams,and layouts from sketches.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldhave talent in drawing andsketching. A neat and systematicapproach to projects is important.You must be accurate, precise, andefficient. The ability to work underpressure and meet deadlines isusually required. You will need goodcomputer skills and knowledge ofCAD applications.


Other ConsiderationsJobs tend to be seasonal, perhapsas a result of increased constructionand renovation activity duringsummer months. Continued employ-ment in these occupations willrequire constant learning to keeppace with the rapidly changingtechnology in this highly computer-ized field. Because the work isclosely related to constructionactivity, employment levels aresensitive to changes in economicconditions.


Public and private investment inmajor construction projects andinfrastructure renewal should have a positive effect on this occupationover the next few years. The growthof Computer Assisted Drafting(CADD) technology has increasedskill requirements for this occupa-tion. Knowledge of drafting andInternet software, as well asprogramming languages andnetwork administration, willimprove employment prospects forpersons seeking employment in thisfield. Employment in this occupationis sensitive to manufacturing andconstruction. CADD skills are almostessential in gaining employment.

Typical JobsStructural DraftspersonTechnical IllustratorMechanical DraftspersonComputer-aided Design (CAD)

TechnicianArchitectural Drafter

Related OccupationsIndustrial DesignersCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial


Electronics and Electrical Engineering Technicians and Technologists







Outlook

Good

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Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Nature of the WorkThese engineers design, develop,and supervise the manufacture ofelectrical and electronic equipment.They develop maintenance andoperating standards for electricaland electronic equipment; designcircuits, components, systems, andequipment; prepare estimates tocomplete required work; and writeperformance reports and designspecifications. There are a numberof choices for specialization,including electrical design for resi-dential, commercial, or industrialinstallations; communicationssystems; and instrumentation andcontrol systems.

Some engineers work in theoffice most of the time, whileothers work in laboratories, indus-trial plants, or construction siteswhere they inspect, supervise, andsolve on-site problems.

SkillsTo work in this field, you should beinterested in the design andoperation of electrical systems andequipment. The ability to communi-cate and co-operate with others isimportant, as engineers often workin teams. You should enjoyproblem-solving and be able tothink analytically and logically.Computer skills are important.

Regulation RequirementsEngineersThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. his occupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsThe growing use of telecommunica-tion, multi-media, and other electronic equipment in homes,businesses, and manufacturing facilities will help generate jobopportunities for people withrelevant electrical and electronicsengineering skills. Therefore, it isimportant that workers keep up todate with changing technology.

Employment ProspectsThe employment outlook for thisoccupational group is Good, whichindicates the chances of a qualifiedindividual finding work is aboveaverage.

The growing use of electronics inmachinery and process controls maylead to increased overlap betweenmechanical, electrical, and elec-tronics engineering. Engineers witha combination of these skills will besought-after, as there is a limitedsupply of qualified applicants.Demand is strong becausecompanies are increasingly usingnew manufacturing technologies.Employers generally have difficultyin finding electrical and electronicsengineers with relevant work expe-rience.

Electronics was identified as agrowing sector in the Halifax area,particularly in the area of instru-mentation. There is also a strongdemand for this occupation acrossNova Scotia and Canada, withemployers often having to advertisenationally to fill positions. We antici-pate that the growth in the devel-opment of the information highwayand new communication systems,banking services and other conven-iences are continuing to proliferate.This will transfer into demands forpersons with such engineering skillsin the future.

Typical JobsAvionics EngineerCommunications EngineerTelevision Systems EngineerRoadway Lighting Design Engineer



Computer EngineersMechanical Engineers






Outlook

Fair

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TElectronics and Electrical Engineering and Instrumentation Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkThis group of occupations includestechnicians, technologists, andmechanics in fields related to electrical engineering and instrumentation.

Electrical and electronics engi-neering technologists and techni-cians provide technical support inthe design, testing, and operation ofelectrical and electronic equipmentand systems. Electronic servicetechnicians service and repairhousehold and business electronicequipment. Industrial instrumenttechnicians and mechanics repair,maintain, adjust, and install indus-trial measuring and controllinginstrumentation.

Aircraft and avionics mechanicsand technicians adjust, repair, andoverhaul aircraft instruments andelectrical and avionics systems onaircraft.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldbe interested in technology anddiscovering how things work. You must have good mechanicalaptitude, attention to detail, andpatience. You must be able to workunder pressure and be able tocollaborate and co-operate withothers as part of a team. Effectiveoral and written communicationskills are also important.

Regulation RequirementsEngineering Technicians and TechnologistsThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).

Alarm and Security TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Electronics Technician, ConsumerProductsNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Instrumentation and Control TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.


Employment may be found in a variety of settings, such ascomputer, industrial, medical, or communication environments.Employers can include universitiesto manufacturing companies.Turnover accounts for someopenings, especially in the installation related positions. Those employed in the aerospaceindustry have the best employmentprospects, at this time, in theHalifax Metro area. Demand isstrong because companies areincreasingly using new manufac-turing technologies. Electronics wasidentified as a growing sector in theHalifax area, particularly in the areaof instrumentation. Most openingsoccur through attrition.

Typical JobsAircraft Instrument MechanicAvionics TechnicianComputer Service TechnicianElectronics Design TechnologistIndustrial Instrument Mechanic


OfficersAircraft Technicians and InspectorsConstruction Millwrights and

Industrial Mechanics






Outlook

Fair

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TForesters

Nature of the WorkForesters work in teams to conductresearch, develop sustainable forestmanagement plans, and administerand direct programs related to thesustainable management of forestresources. They apply theirknowledge and experience tomanage the forest for theiremployers and the public byplanning and directing forestsurveys, preparing recommenda-tions, and establishing short- andlong-term objectives for themanagement of forest resources.They plan and direct programs forharvesting, reforestation, silvicul-ture, fire prevention and firesuppression, road building, wildlifemanagement, environmental protec-tion, and insect and vegetationcontrol.

Foresters also plan and directeducation and extension programsrelated to forestry, develop policyrelated to forestry, and provideadvice and recommendations asconsultants on forestry issues toprivate woodlot owners, companies,and municipal, provincial, andfederal governments.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave an aptitude for seeing thebigger picture, which is necessaryfor long-term resource manage-ment. You need good communica-tion skills to convey this picture to your coworkers and the public.Leadership and effective oral andwritten communication skills arenecessary. You must be able towork as part of a team, using bothadministrative and project manage-ment skills. You should enjoyworking outdoors and be physicallycapable of travelling through roughterrain, but also recognize that aportion of your time will be spentworking in an office environmentwhere computer skills are required.An interest in science and biologyand the relationships between livingorganisms will help set you on theright path.

Regulation RequirementsForestersThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. Certifica-tion may be required by employers,however, a certificate is not requiredto work in this occupation. The jobtitle is protected (you may not usethis job title without certification).

Other ConsiderationsUnlike other forestry occupations,foresters have no significantseasonal patterns of unemployment.


These professionals tend to headtheir own company and do contractor consulting work with either busi-nesses or private land owners.Provincial regulations on the properharvesting of timber can have aneffect on the amount of business or opportunities for this occupation.The trend toward an increasingemphasis on sustainable forests willcontinue to maintain or create workfor forestry professionals. There islittle turnover among professionalsemployed with the provincialgovernment, and opportunities arelikely to occur through attrition.However, the workforce is relativelyolder and opportunities should arisethrough retirements within the nextfew years.

Typical JobsRegistered Professional ForesterConsulting ForesterForest AgrologistForest EngineerForest Pathologist

Related OccupationsFarm Management Specialists and

Agricultural ConsultantsBiologists and Related ScientistsLogging and Forestry WorkersForestry Technicians and

Technologists





Outlook

Fair

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Forestry Technicians and Technologists

Nature of the WorkForestry technologists and techni-cians work to manage forests andprotect the environment. They canwork independently or providetechnical and supervisory services in support of forestry research andforest resources conservation andprotection.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldenjoy technical work and have aninterest in science. A high degree ofmanual dexterity and mechanicalability might be necessary. You mustbe methodical, precise and analyt-ical, and able to work alone or aspart of a team. Good oral andwritten communication skills areimportant, as well as the ability tosupervise and coordinate the workof others. You might have to befamiliar with mapping techniquesand computerized informationsystems for some positions.Fieldwork can demand physicalstamina.

Regulation RequirementsScalers LicenceThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. A certifi-cate is required to work in thisoccupation.

Other ConsiderationsPeople in these occupations usuallywork regular hours; however,fieldwork and experimental follow-up can result in irregular hours.


Openings over the coming yearswill come largely from retirements.Many individuals work in the publicsector, which makes for a competi-tive labour market when positionsbecome available due to therelative stability and good hourlycompensation for these jobs. Themajority of opportunities for thisoccupation are concentrated in NovaScotia’s North Shore region. Mobilitymay be possible to occupations innatural resources and wildlifemanagement, and in parks manage-ment. The increasing application oftechnology in forestry managementrequires individuals to upgrade theirskills to remain employable. Envi-ronmental regulations will ensurethat forest management work issustained in future years.

Typical JobsForest Fire TechnicianSilviculture TechnicianForestry TechnologistForest Technician

Related OccupationsForestersBiological Technicians and

TechnologistsConservation and Fishery Officers






Outlook

Fair

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TGeologists and Oceanographers

Nature of the WorkGeologists, geochemists, andgeophysicists explore to locatehydrocarbon, mineral, and ground-water resources; plan andimplement programs of hydrocarbonand mineral extraction; and assessthe effects of development andwaste disposal projects on the envi-ronment.

Geologists conduct research intothe nature and history of the earth’scrust. To do this, they search formineral and energy resources, andstudy the distribution, circulation,and properties of water andsediment. They might do geologicalmapping using remote sensing andfield techniques, identify mineralsand rocks, direct field studies, anddevelop software for the analysisand interpretation of data.

Activities can also include identi-fying and anticipating natural riskssuch as slope erosion, landslides,and earthquakes; conductinggeochemical analysis of water andsediments for environmental assess-ments; and identifying factors thatinfluence environmental quality,such as the effects of wastedisposal.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave an interest in the earth’sstructure and materials. The abilityto communicate and co-operatewith others is important, asteamwork is common. Familiaritywith computers is essential. Youshould be curious, adaptable, andpatient, and enjoy working withscientific data. Doing fieldwork inremote areas or at sea can demandphysical stamina.

Regulation RequirementsGeoscientistsThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. A certifi-cate is required to work in thisoccupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsAny future oil and natural gasexploration and developmentactivity could generate job opportu-nities for geologists with the appro-priate training.


There are few employers of thisoccupation in the province. Somemining activity exists and there maybe some upcoming opportunities in oil and gas exploration. Environ-mental assessment and monitoringprovides some opportunities forwork. There is little turnover amongthose employed in governmentpositions. Those entering this fieldshould enjoy working with scientificdata. Physical stamina may benecessary for those doing fieldworkin remote areas or at sea.

Typical JobsEnvironmental GeologistGeophysicistGeochemistPetroleum GeologistPaleontologist


TechnologistsChemistsGeological Engineers





Outlook

Fair

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Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers

Nature of the WorkIndustrial and manufacturingengineers study, develop, andsupervise programs to achieveefficient industrial production anduse of industrial human resources,machinery, materials, information,and energy. They plan and designplant layouts and facilities, developmanufacturing systems, analyseproduction costs, assess facilities,and determine skill requirements ofworkers.

Industrial engineers are a bridgebetween management and opera-tions. They are concerned withincreasing productivity through themanagement of people andmethods of business organization,but they must also spend time withthe people who are key compo-nents of the systems beingdesigned.

Manufacturing engineers plan,direct, and coordinate elements ofdesign, materials, and manufac-turing process in industrial plants.They design products and developprocesses and standards for produc-tion and quality control.

SkillsTo work in this field, you should beinterested in organizing, managing,and integrating automation in theworkplace. Persistence, ingenuity,and the ability to think analyticallyand logically are important. Youmust be able to communicate andwork well with others, as engineersoften work in teams. Goodjudgment, problem-solving, andleadership skills are also expected.Computer skills are essential.

Regulation RequirementsEngineersThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. A certifi-cate is required to work in thisoccupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsThe services provided by people inthese occupations are becomingmore important as firms strive tobecome more competitive throughthe use of technologically advancedequipment and more efficientmeans of production. The risingimportance of research into thedesign and production of newproducts should also contribute tojob openings in these fields. It isessential for workers to keep up todate with changing technology.


Industrial engineering hasbroadened into such areas as food,banking, health care, and commer-cial aviation with a focus onservices to clients. The increasinglydiverse sectors in which industrialengineers work will broaden theiremployment opportunities incoming years.

Experienced engineers willusually find employment, althoughthe employment base in this occupation locally is not very large.An emphasis on quality control inmanufacturing may offer someopportunity. This occupation doesnot employ a large number ofpeople in the province, but futuredevelopments may increase oppor-tunities down the road.

Typical JobsCost EngineerQuality Control EngineerProduction EngineerSafety Engineer

Related OccupationsAdvertising, Management, and

Promotion ConsultantsMechanical EngineersCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial







Outlook

Fair

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TIndustrial Designers

Nature of the WorkIndustrial designers design anddevelop countless manufacturedproducts such as cars, home appli-ances, children’s toys, computerequipment, and medical, office, orrecreational equipment. They createdesign concepts, sketches, ormodels, and prepare specificationsand guidelines for production. Theycombine artistic talent with researchon product use, marketing,materials, and production methodsto create the most functional andappealing design and to make theproduct competitive with others inthe marketplace. As an industrialdesigner, you would consult withclients, engineers, or productionspecialists to establish productrequirements; analyse the intendeduse of the product; and conductresearch into the costs and methodsof production.

Furniture designers designfurniture for manufacture, accordingto knowledge of design trends,competitors’ products, productioncosts, capability of production facilities, and characteristics of a company’s market. To facilitateproduction, they may also designand prepare detailed drawings forthe required fixtures, forms.

SkillsTo work in this field, you should becreative, imaginative, and artistic.You must be able to communicateideas both visually and verbally. You must be able to work well withpeople and be open to new ideasand influences. Computer skills,especially familiarity with computer-aided design, are an asset.


Other ConsiderationsThe rate at which new manufac-turing technology is adopted willaffect the number of job openingsin these occupations.


Industrial designers work across a diverse set of industries. Althoughthis occupation is considered lowopportunity, it is hard to define thefuture demand as there are only a few potential employers in NovaScotia while there are also very fewnoted as unemployed should jobopenings come up. Opportunities forself-employment may exist in thisoccupation group.

Typical JobsFurniture DesignerIndustrial Products DesignerIndustrial Design ConsultantProduct DesignerPackage Designer





Drafting Technicians and Technologists

Graphic DesignersInterior Designers





Outlook

Good

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Information Systems Analysts and Consultants

Nature of the WorkPeople in these jobs research,develop, and implement plans andprocedures for information systems.They develop information systemsolutions for business problems andprovide advice on a wide range ofinformation issues. Informationsystems business analysts andconsultants meet with their clientsto discuss issues and requirements;research both business and technicalissues; design, develop andimplement solutions; and provideadvice on the best way to use infor-mation systems.

Systems security analysts assessphysical and technical security risksto data, software, and hardware.They develop policies and proce-dures to prevent security breaches,and contingency plans to minimizethe effects of breaches. Informationsystems quality assurance analystsdevelop and implement policies andprocedures at each stage ofsoftware development. They workto maximize the efficiency, effec-tiveness, and overall quality ofsoftware products and informationsystems.

Systems auditors review qualityassurance practices, softwareproducts, and information systems.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould enjoy helping your clientsdevelop ways to meet their needs.You need good analytical andproblem-solving skills. You musthave an understanding of mathe-matics and be good with number.You should be methodical, precise,and accurate, and you’ll need goodproofreading skills to detect, locate,and avoid errors in code. Oral andwritten communication skills areimportant in working with andadvising clients. As these fields areconstantly changing, you should beprepared to update your knowledgeand skills on a regular basis.



Employment of informationsystems analysts and consultants is expected to grow in the comingyears as the need to process,manage, and secure informationgrows. Falling prices of computerhardware and software shouldcontinue to induce businesses toexpand their computerized opera-tions. The expansion of electroniccommerce in both the public andprivate sectors should fuel demandfor these occupations. Work is oftenon a casual contract or term basis.

Employment growth will also beseen in computer system designand related technologies. Mostopportunities available are for thosethat are highly qualified, howevercompanies are becoming morewilling to hire recent graduates.Many inexperienced workers canobtain employment with callcentres, but are not required to do the full duties typically requiredof an Information System Analyst. A sub-specialty and background inbusiness is an advantage in findingemployment.

Typical JobsBusiness Systems AnalystComputer ConsultantSystems Security AnalystInformatics ConsultantSystems Analyst

Related OccupationsAdvertising, Management and

Promotion ConsultantsAccountants and Financial AuditorsDatabase Analysts and Data

AdministratorsSoftware Engineers

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Nature of the WorkMechanical engineers plan anddesign tools, engines, machines,and other mechanical equipment.They design and develop power-producing machines, such asinternal combustion engines, steamand gas turbines, and jet and rocketengines. They also research, design,and develop machinery andsystems for heating, ventilating andair-conditioning, processing, andmanufacturing.

They can be responsible for theevaluation, installation, operation,and maintenance of mechanicalsystems. Activities can includepreparing material, cost, and timingestimates; writing reports anddesign specifications for machineryand systems; and investigatingmechanical failures or unexpectedmaintenance problems. Someengineers work in an office most of the time, while others work in laboratories, industrial plants, or construction sites where theyinspect, supervise, and solve on-siteproblems.

SkillsTo work in this field, you shouldhave an interest in the design andoperation of machines and mechan-ical processes. Persistence, goodjudgment, and the ability to thinkanalytically and logically areimportant. You must be able tocommunicate and work well withothers, as engineers often work inteams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also important.Computer experience is essential.


Other ConsiderationsEngineers should be prepared tokeep up to date with changingtechnology.


Mechanical engineering is notseasonal, and employment is notvery sensitive to overall economicconditions. Employers generallyhave difficulty in finding mechanicalengineers with the appropriate skillsand candidates with highly soughtafter qualifications may be hired,even when employers are notactively recruiting. There are someentry-level opportunities for engi-neering graduates and engineerswith minimal experience in thefield.

The growing use of electronics inmachinery and process controls willlead to increased overlap betweenmechanical, electrical, and elec-tronics engineering. Engineers witha combination of these skills will besought-after, as there is a limitedsupply of qualified applicants.

Typical JobsEnergy Conservation EngineerFluid Mechanics EngineerAutomotive EngineerMechanical EngineerRefrigeration Engineer



Ship’s Captain and Other DeckOfficers

Stationary and Power EngineersElectrical and Electronics Engineers

Mechanical Engineers


Outlook

Good

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Nature of the WorkMining engineers design andmanage mines and other largegeotechnical projects. Theydetermine the best processes toextract minerals and ores fromunderground and surface mines, andthey supervise these processes.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, you need persistence and goodjudgment. The ability to thinkanalytically and logically isimportant. You must be able tocommunicate and co-operate withothers, as engineers often work inteams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also necessary.Computer experience is important.



This is a very small occupationalgroup in Nova Scotia. A decline in the local coal-mining industry has decreased demand for thisoccupation. It is possible that thedevelopment of a coal mine in theCape Breton region may createsome employment opportunities.Retirements are expected to createjob openings.

Typical JobsMine Safety EngineerMineral EngineerMine Layout EngineerMining Engineer

Related OccupationsGeologists and OceanographersPetroleum Engineers

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Nature of the WorkMeteorologists analyse and forecastweather, provide consultation onatmospheric conditions, and conductresearch into the nature andprocesses of weather, climate, andrelated issues. Activities includeanalysing and interpreting dataobtained from many sources, suchas meteorological stations, weathersatellites, and radar.

Atmospheric physicists analysethe impact of industrial projects onthe climate and quality of the air,and develop and test mathematicalcomputer models of weather andclimate.

SkillsThis work is detailed and precise,and it often demands close concen-tration for long periods of time. Youmust have good judgment, initia-tive, and the ability to handlestressful situations. You must beable to meet deadlines and commu-nicate effectively, both orally and inwriting. Computer skills are helpful.



This is a very small occupationalgroup in Nova Scotia, and thenumber of employers is limited. The main employers of meteorolo-gists are Environment Canada, theCanadian Armed Forces, privateconsulting companies, resource andutility companies, and provincialgovernments. Environment Canadahas centralized its meteorologicalservice in recent years, which hasnegatively affected demand for thisoccupation. However, increased

funding for research to examineclimate change may create someemployment opportunities for thisoccupation. This is an older occupa-tion so retirements are expected to contribute to job openings.

Typical JobsClimatologistAtmospheric PhysicistMeteorologistWeather Forecaster


Technologists

Meteorologists

Outlook

Limited

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Estimated hourly earnings in 2009Average N/AMinimum N/AMaximum N/A

Mining Engineers



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Nature of the WorkPetroleum engineers conductstudies related to the explorationfor, the development of, and extrac-tion from oil and gas deposits. They plan and supervise oil and gasproduction facilities.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, you need persistence and goodjudgment. The ability to thinkanalytically and logically isimportant. You must be able tocommunicate and co-operate withothers, as engineers often work inteams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also necessary.Computer experience is important.


Employment OutlookThe employment outlook for thisoccupational group is Limited, orbelow average, primarily as a resultof more job seekers than jobsavailable.

Petroleum engineers conductstudies for the exploration, develop-ment, and extraction of oil and gasdeposits. Employers generally havedifficulty in finding petroleumengineers with significant workexperience. The number ofemployers for this occupationalgroup in Nova Scotia is limited, and demand for this occupation isinfluenced by growth in the oil andnatural gas industry, which hasexperienced a slowdown in recentyears. Retirements are not expectedto contribute to job openings.

Typical JobsDrilling Engineer, Oil and GasProduction Engineer, Oil and GasSubsea EngineerPetroleum Engineer

Related OccupationsGeologists and OceanographersChemical Engineers

Petroleum Engineers

Outlook

Limited

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Nature of the WorkThese occupations specialize in thephysical sciences such as geology,chemistry, oceanography, and mete-orology.

Chemical engineering andpetroleum engineering techniciansand technologists use the principlesand theories of science, engi-neering, and mathematics to solveproblems in research and develop-ment, manufacturing, sales,construction, and customer service.Chemical technologists and techni-cians can provide technical supportin chemical engineering andbiochemical research, among otherduties.

Geological technologists conductor direct geochemical, hydrographic,or oceanographic surveys;exploratory drilling; well logging;and underground mine surveyprograms. They might operate andmaintain equipment and assistengineers and geologists in theevaluation and analysis ofpetroleum and mineral reservoirs.Meteorological technicians work insuch areas as observation, dataacquisition, inspection, and qualityassurance.

Oceanographic techniciansprepare, maintain, and operate avariety of instruments; collect andprocess data; and write reports. Thework takes place both in the laband at sea.

SkillsThe skills and aptitudes for theseoccupations are as varied as theentrance requirements. You shouldbe interested in science and tech-nology and be able to work withdetailed processes, machines, and techniques. Familiarity withcomputers is necessary for mostpositions. You should have anaptitude for mathematics and thesciences at the high school level.


Other ConsiderationsSome of these jobs involveexposure to heat, noise, vibration,fumes, and dust, while other jobsare in a relatively clean laboratoryenvironment.


Although the demand for technologists and technicians oftenmirrors that of their engineer counterparts, companies sometimesfind it more cost-effective to havetechnologists perform some dutiesoften performed by an engineer.Technologists and technicians workclosely with engineers in a teamenvironment. Chemical technolo-gists are increasingly working in theenvironmental industry. Engineeringconsulting firms and N.S. NaturalResources employ geological andmineral technologists. There is noemployment for meteorologicaltechnicians in Nova Scotia.

Typical JobsChemical Research TechnicianGeological TechnologistClimate Service SpecialistPetroleum Engineering TechnologistOceanographic TechnicianMeteorological Technician


OfficersSurvey Technicians and

TechnologistsCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial



Central Control and ProcessOperators in Manufacturing andProcessing

Physical Sciences Technicians and Technologists

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkLand surveyors establish legalboundaries of land, water, and airunder the provisions of the LandSurveyors Act. They determine thelocation of boundaries, and theyprepare and certify legal plans andwritten descriptions for leases,rights-of-way, and other interests in land, water, and air. They alsosurvey land surfaces to determinethe location of physical features ofboundaries; describe and locatetopographic and hydrographicfeatures of land and land coveredby water; measure land areas formap-making; set alignment forconstruction projects; survey surfaceand underground features of mines;and survey sea, river, and lake beds.

Associated activities include thepreparation of plans, charts, records,and documents related to surveys.Land surveyors provide consultingservices on legal survey issues, suchas land developments and construc-tion projects. Land surveyors mustbe up-to-date with the latest tech-nology, including electronic totalstations, global positioningequipment, and a wide variety ofcomputers using survey, computer-aided design (CAD), and geographicinformation system (GIS) software.

SkillsFor this type of work, you should bephysically fit and enjoy workingoutdoors. Good health and eyesightare necessary. You must be capableof precise and detailed work, andbe able to perform mathematicalcalculations quickly. You need strongtechnical abilities in the use of newand emerging technologies and anaptitude for mathematics andphysics at the high school level. A high level of communication skillsis essential. You must be able tocommunicate both orally and inwritten form on technical, legal, and business issues.

Regulation RequirementsLand SurveyorsThis occupation is regulated in NovaScotia. Certification attests that theholder has met provincial require-ments for the occupation. A certifi-cate is required to work in thisoccupation, and the job title isprotected (you may not use this jobtitle without certification).

Other ConsiderationsWork in these occupations isseasonal, with unemploymenthighest in the winter months.Surveyors usually work regularhours; however, they often worklonger hours during the summer inorder to meet clients’ deadlines.


Demand for this occupation islinked to new construction develop-ments. Overall, in the next fewyears, a slowdown in constructionactivity will reduce employment forthis group. Declining population haslimited the amount of new homeconstruction in rural regions inrecent years. Approximately one-third of these professionals are self-employed. Employment in thisoccupation has been affected bynew technologies such as theGlobal Positioning System (GPS) andGeographic Information System(GIS), which may induce more landsurveying to be done. Knowledge of and GPS and GIS technology is an asset to gaining employment.

Typical JobsSurveyorProfessional Land SurveyorLand SurveyorProperty Surveyor

Related OccupationsSurvey Technicians and

TechnologistsCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial


Civil Engineers

Professional Land Surveyors

Outlook

Fair

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Estimated hourly earnings in 2009Average $24.25Minimum $16.50Maximum $35.50LA

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Nature of the WorkThese occupations coordinatepassenger and freight train trafficand coastal and inland marinetraffic.

Activities of railway trafficcontrollers can include operatingcentralized traffic control systems tocoordinate railway traffic, chartingtrain movements, calculating arrivaland departure times, and issuingorders to control the movement ofpassenger and freight train traffic.Activities of marine trafficcontrollers can include directingvessel movements, advising vessels

of traffic and weather conditions,and reporting accidents, distresssignals, and navigational hazards to authorities.

SkillsFor these occupations, you need a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to perform underpressure. Attention to detail isimportant. You must be alert andarticulate, and have excellentcommunication skills.



This is a very small occupationalgroup in Nova Scotia. Retirementswill contribute to some jobopenings in the coming years.

Typical JobsTrain DispatcherTrain OperatorRailway Traffic ControllerMarine Traffic Regulator

Railway and Marine Traffic Controllers

Outlook

Limited

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Estimated employmentin 2009<50




Ship’s Captain and Other Deck Officers

Nature of the WorkShip’s deck officers are responsiblefor ships or self-propelled vesselsthat are used to transport passen-gers and cargo. They plan andexecute safe passage using naviga-tional aids and determine thegeographical position of the shipusing navigational instruments,maps, and charts. They also directand oversee the loading andunloading of cargo and record onthe ship’s log the vessel’s progress,crew’s activities, and weather andsea conditions.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould enjoy being at sea. You needa sense of responsibility and strongleadership qualities. You must be ingood health and meet eyesight andcolour-vision requirements. Problem-solving and decision-making skillsare also important. Mechanicalaptitude is helpful.


Other ConsiderationsEmployment opportunities willmainly depend on export levels andthe ability of shipping companies tobe competitive with other forms oftransportation.


Employment in deep-seashipping for mariners, includingship’s captains, is expected to besteady in the coming years. Therehas not been much employmentgrowth in this province and thenumber of jobs is limited. There is a potential for work on theHalifax-Dartmouth ferries, the CoastGuard, the Department of NationalDefence, the Atlantic PilotageAuthority, and within the shippingindustry. Ferry service to Newfound-land and other smaller ferryservices around the province areother major employers for deckofficers. These occupations aretypically seasonal. Experience isimportant in gaining employment in

this occupation and may requireleaving the province in order to gainexperience and the required certifi-cation. Occasional opportunities doexist, mostly due to turnover orretirement.

Typical JobsNavigation OfficerShip’s CaptainShip’s First Mate

Related OccupationsMechanical EngineersFishing Vessel Masters, Skippers,

and Fishermen/womenTransport Equipment Operators and

Ramp AttendantsShip’s Engineer Officers

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Nature of the WorkEngineer officers supervise andcoordinate the work of the engineroom crew. Duties include operatingmain engines, machinery, and allauxiliary equipment aboard ships;standing engine room watch; andinspecting and conducting mainte-nance and emergency repair toengines and machinery.

SkillsAs a ship’s officer, you should enjoybeing at sea. You need a sense ofresponsibility and strong leadershipqualities. You must be in goodhealth and meet eyesight andcolour-vision requirements. Problem-solving and decision-making skillsare important. Mechanical aptitudeis helpful.


Other ConsiderationsEmployment opportunities willdepend mainly on export levels andthe ability of shipping companies tobe competitive with other forms oftransportation.


Engineer officers are employedby marine transportation companiesand federal government depart-ments, including the armed forces.Ship’s engineer officers areemployed across Nova Scotia, withthe majority of positions concen-trated in the Halifax area and insouthern Nova Scotia. On CapeBreton there is seasonal demand forshipboard engineers with 1st or 2ndclass certification. In general, therehas not been much employmentgrowth in this occupational area andthe number of jobs is limited, butsome opportunities are available forthose with experience.

Typical JobsShip’s Engineer OfficerMarine Engineer OfficerChief Engineer, Water Transport

Related OccupationsMechanical EngineersShip’s Captain and Other Deck

OfficersTransport Equipment Operators and

Ramp AttendantsBiomedical, Marine, and Other

Engineers

Ship’s Engineer Officers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkSoftware engineers develop,redesign, and troubleshoot variousforms of software (for example,software applications, technicalenvironments, operating systems,and embedded software). Theymust understand user requirements,be able to research and interprettechnical information, developperformance models and designs,and coordinate the required steps tobring software and systems intooperation. Software engineers mightalso lead teams of informationsystems professionals whencomplex projects are in develop-ment.

SkillsYou will need an understanding ofcomputer languages and IT termi-nology. You must be analytical, havea solid grasp of mathematics, andbe both innovative and methodical.Accuracy and proofreading skills arerequired to detect, locate, and avoiderrors in code. You need goodcommunication skills to understanduser requirements and to lead andcoordinate teams of informationprofessionals.


Other ConsiderationsBecause of rapid changes incomputer technology, you must be prepared to keep abreast of new developments in computerhardware, software, and networkingtechnologies.


It is anticipated that there will be expansion in Nova Scotia’s information technology sector in the coming years, which will fuelemployment growth for this occupation. There is a smallersupply of new workers, as univer-sity enrolment in computer scienceand computer engineering has beendeclining over the past severalyears. Most opportunities availableare for those that are highlyqualified, however companies arebecoming more willing to hirerecent graduates.

People within this occupation are typically employed by largercompanies. Halifax Metro hasapproximately three quarters of theInformation Technology employmentin Nova Scotia, since it has a greaterproportion of larger firms comparedto the rest of the province. Provin-cial reports from the informationtechnology industry in Nova Scotiapredict a strong job growth in allInformation Technology (IT) sectors.

Typical JobsSystems Design EngineerSoftware ConsultantSoftware Sales RepresentativeTechnical Architect, SoftwareSystems Integration Engineer

Related OccupationsComputer EngineersInformation Systems Analysts

and ConsultantsDatabase Analysts and Data

AdministratorsComputer Programmers and

Interactive Media DevelopersWeb Designers and DevelopersComputer Support Technicians

Software Engineers

Outlook

Good

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MAR

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Nature of the WorkSurvey technologists and techniciansconduct surveys to determine the exact locations and relativepositions of natural features andother structures on the earth’ssurface.

Survey technologists conductfield surveys and operate surveyinstruments to measure distance,angles, and elevations; record meas-urements obtained during fieldsurvey activities; and preparedetailed drawings, charts, and plans.Survey technicians participate infield surveys; keep records, meas-urements, and other survey infor-mation; and assist in the calculation,analysis, and computing of meas-urements obtained during fieldsurveys.

SkillsFor this type of work, you should be physically fit and enjoy workingoutdoors. You must have goodhealth, good eyesight, and manualdexterity. You must be capable ofprecise and detailed work and beable to perform mathematical calcu-lations quickly. Strong technicalabilities in the use of new andemerging technologies and anaptitude for mathematics andphysics at the high school level areimportant. A high level of communi-cation skills is necessary.



Many surveyors are selfemployed. Employment is oftensensitive to activity in construction.Contract work is common in thisoccupation. The newly expandedGeomatics facilities at COGS (Centreof Geographic Sciences) whichfocuses on onshore and offshoremapping, environmental impactstudies, flood risk assessment, oiland gas exploration, aquaculturesite selection and other applicationsin Atlantic coastal areas, is expectedto help attract good, high-payingjobs to the area. Nationally, theGeomatics industry is growing at a rate of 20% per year.

Typical JobsSurvey Technician/TechnologistTopographic SurveyTechnician/TechnologistGeomatics Technician/TechnologistLand Survey TechnicianLegal or Cadastral Survey

Technologist/TechnicianEngineering Survey Technician/

Technologist

Related OccupationsProfessional Land SurveyorsCivil, Mechanical, and Industrial



Civil Engineers

Survey Technicians and Technologists

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkNon-destructive testers and inspec-tors, such as radiographic techni-cians, operate testing equipment todetect defects in objects of variouscompositions and materials.

Engineering inspectors and regu-latory officers, such as elevatorinspectors, inspect transportationvehicles and weighing andmeasuring devices to ensurecompliance with government andindustrial standards and regulations.Public health or environmentalhealth inspectors work to reducerisks to public health through food,water, and other environments.Occupational health and safetyofficials investigate health- andsafety-related complaints, andmanage workplace occupationalhealth and safety programs.

Construction inspectors inspectthe construction and maintenanceof new and existing structures, andmonitor work-site safety. Homeinspectors provide technical adviceto buyers and owners of real estate.

SkillsFor these occupations, the ability to work effectively with the publicunder various circumstances iscrucial. You must have good obser-vational and analytical skills. Youmust be accurate and able to payclose attention to detail. Honestyand integrity are important.Excellent communication skills arealso important.



Most opportunities in this occu-pational group are in public admin-istration and demand for this workis expected to be in environmentaland safety regulation. Inspectors areusually specialized to certain disci-plines, such as food, health andsafety or environmental assess-ment. Employment opportunitiesmainly result from retirements orgeneral turnover.

Typical JobsOccupational Health and Safety

OfficialPublic Health InspectorConstruction InspectorEnvironmental Health OfficerElectrical Inspector, Construction


TechnologistsContractors and Supervisors, Trades

and Related

Technical Inspectors and Regulatory Officers

Outlook

Fair

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MAR

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nscareeroptions.ca

OCCUPATIONS IN ART, CULTURE,RECREATION, AND SPORT

Section6_Art 07/10/10 11:25 AM Page 119

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations in Art, Culture, Recreation, and Sport 135

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes specialists inpublic relations and communicationswho develop and implementcommunication strategies and infor-mation programs, publicize activitiesand events, and maintain mediarelations.

Activities include researching andediting material for internal andexternal audiences; preparingreports, speeches, brochures, pressreleases, or newsletters; developingworkshops, meetings, and otherevents for publicity, fundraising, and information purposes; arranginginterviews and news conferences;and acting as spokespersons fororganizations. Increasingly, thesepeople are required to developpresentations and slide shows onvarious media (film, DVD, computerapplications).

SkillsTo work in this field, you must beorganized and resourceful. You musthave excellent oral and writtencommunication skills. You musthave good interpersonal skills andbe able to work as part of a team.Ability to meet deadlines and workunder pressure is essential.Computer and word processing skillsand knowledge of French arestrongly recommended.



Many larger organizations havecentralized public relations andcommunications to head offices.Consulting and contract work createoccasional opportunities, particularlywith non profit organizations. Thereis a demand for professionals in thisfield as businesses and govern-ments understand the importance of proper communication of infor-mation and its role in creating apositive image. The Halifax areaemploys a large number of theseprofessionals working in NovaScotia, it is a large group, and somany positions are created throughreplacement needs. However, thereis also a steady supply of universitygraduates from this and similarfields in the area. This creates anaccessible labour pool and strongcompetition for more desirablepositions, especially among lessexperienced workers.

A number of graduates findemployment through internshipprograms. Many larger firms havecommunications specialists, andwhile many small and mid-levelorganizations recruit them as well,the positions there may involve a wider range of duties, includingthose from other related occupa-tions. Persons entering the occupa-tion may work on a contract basisfor a local event, or as fund-raisingcoordinators, where there seems to be favourable employmentprospects. Government hasemployed a fair number of those in the field, but Public-relationsconsulting firms and large privatecorporations may offer betterprospects in the future. Outsourcinghas created opportunities withconsulting firms, and freelance workis increasingly common. The occupa-tion is moving steadily towardscontract-based work.

Typical JobsTalent AgentFundraising ConsultantPublicity AgentPress SecretaryMedia Relations OfficerCommunications OfficerPublic Relations Officer

Related OccupationsAdvertising Management and

Promotion ConsultantsAnnouncers and Other Broadcasters

Public Relations and Communications Officers

Outlook

Fair

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Section6_Art 07/10/10 11:25 AM Page 135

nscareeroptions.ca

OCCUPATIONS IN SOCIAL SCIENCE, EDUCATION, GOVERNMENT SERVICE, AND RELIGION

Section7_SocialServices 07/10/10 11:26 AM Page 139

Nature of the WorkBusiness development officers andmarketing researchers and consult-ants conduct research, developpolicies, and manage programsdesigned to stimulate businessactivity, investment, or tourism. Forexample, economic developmentofficers design and administerprograms to encourage and supportthe development of new industriesin rural areas. Tourism industryconsultants research andrecommend marketing strategies to attract more tourists to an area.

SkillsTo work in these fields, you shouldbe organized, resourceful, and ableto co-operate with others in a team.You must be able to communicateclearly, both orally and in writing.You will need an interest in researchand familiarity with computers.Advanced computer and technicalskills for data manipulation andstatistical analysis can be requiredin some positions.



Major employers for this occupational group are governmentdepartments and agencies,marketing firms, and business associations. Self-employment inthis occupation is also common.Turnover creates some openings in this field, while specific projectfunding results in new short-termopportunities. Employers are lookingfor candidates with strong people,computer, and presentation skills.

Typical JobsCommunity Economic Development

OfficerBusiness Development OfficerMarketing ConsultantTourism Development OfficerMarket Researcher

Related OccupationsUrban and Land Use PlannersFinancial and Investment AnalystsFinancial Planners and Other

Financial OfficersEconomists and Economic Policy

Researchers and AnalystsSocial Policy Researchers,

Consultants, and Program Officers

Business Development Officers, and Marketing Researchers and ConsultantsLA

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Outlook

Fair

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140 Occupations in Social Science, Education, Government Service, and Religion Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013






Nature of the WorkThis group includes instructors whoteach courses that are outsideeducational institutions and not job-related. For example, drivinginstructors teach proper motorvehicle driving skills and trafficregulations to individuals, whilesewing instructors teach studentstechniques of sewing, tailoring, anddressmaking.

SkillsTo work in this field, you should bepatient, imaginative, objective, andresourceful. Leadership skills andthe ability to motivate students areimportant. You must be able tocommunicate ideas in a clear,concise, and interesting way.

Planning and organizational skillsare also necessary. Instructors mustbe knowledgeable about theirsubjects and keep informed of newmaterial or methods of teaching.



There is a high incidence of part-time work in many of these occupa-tions, such as driving instructor, andself-employment is common. Thereis little turnover among the fewdriver’s licence examiners, who areemployed by the provincial govern-ment. Persons with skills andtraining in this occupational fieldshould be initially prepared torelocate to wherever the opportuni-ties are available.

Typical JobsDriver Training InstructorMotorcycle Driving InstructorDriver’s Licence ExaminerSewing InstructorModelling and Finishing School

Instructor

Related OccupationsCollege and Vocational Instructors

Driving Instructors and Other Teachers

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations in Social Science, Education, Government Service, and Religion 143

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Fair

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Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts

Nature of the WorkThis group includes people whoconsult with and advise governmentand business about economicbehaviour and patterns. Theyconduct research, analyse data andinformation, provide forecasts onmarket potential and economictrends, and develop reports andprovide advice in a wide variety of areas related to economics. They might advise governments andgovernment agencies on policies to enhance economic activities.They conduct research on marketconditions to set sales and pricingfor goods and services produced by businesses.

SkillsTo work in these fields, you shouldbe organized, resourceful, and ableto co-operate with others in a team.You must be able to communicateclearly, both orally and in writing.You will need an interest in researchand familiarity with computers. Forsome positions, you might needadvanced computer and technicalskills for data manipulation andstatistical analysis.



Economists and economic policyresearchers and analysts aregenerally employed by govern-ments, private industry, universitiesand consulting firms. Opportunitiestend to be contract work that origi-nates from a government fundeddepartment or agency, or employedwithin the government itself. To work in this field, you shouldhave an interest in research and a strong familiarity with computers.Advanced computer and technicalskills for data manipulation andstatistical analysis may be requiredin some positions.

Typical JobsEconomistEconomic AdvisorEnergy EconomistInternational Trade EconomistTax Economist

Related OccupationsUniversity Professors and AssistantsFinancial and Investment AnalystsBusiness Development Officers and

Marketing Researchers andConsultants

Social Policy Researchers, Consultants, and Program Officers

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Nature of the WorkSocial policy researchers consult andprovide advice to government andbusiness about social policy andprogram development, healthpromotion, regulations, standards,and financing. They conductresearch; interpret demographic,social, and economic studies; anddevelop and monitor legislation,policies, and programs. Home economists focus onconsumer affairs and the selectionand proper use of food products,textiles and other goods.

Housing policy analysts research,implement, and administer housingpolicy and programs. Internationalaid and development projectofficers specialize in the research,development, and implementationof international aid and develop-ment programs.

Social survey researchers studyissues related to employment,immigration, corrections, housing,labour, and family services. Socialservices planners develop newsocial programs and evaluate, coordinate, and develop awarenessof existing programs.

SkillsTo work in these fields, you shouldbe organized, resourceful, and ableto co-operate with others in a team.You must be able to communicateclearly, both orally and in writing.You will need an interest in researchand familiarity with computers.Some positions might requireadvanced computer and technicalskills for data manipulation andstatistical analysis.



Social policy researchers, consult-ants, and program officers work in a wide variety of areas. They areemployed by government depart-ments and agencies, industry,hospitals, educational institutions,consulting establishments, professional associations, researchinstitutes, non-government organizations, and internationalorganizations, or they may be self-employed. There are minimum full-time opportunities and opportunitiesusually occur as existing programofficers retire. Vacancies are oftenfilled from within. Term and contractwork account for occasional opportunities.

Typical JobsHuman Rights OfficerHome EconomistHousing Policy AnalystInternational Aid OfficerInternational Development OfficerSocial Services Planner

Related OccupationsCommunity and Social Service

WorkersHealth Policy Researchers,

Consultants, and Program OfficersEconomists and Economic Policy

Researchers and AnalystsBusiness Development Officers,

and Marketing Researchers andConsultants

Social Workers

Social Policy Researchers, Consultants, and Program Officers

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations in Social Science, Education, Government Service, and Religion 157

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Fair

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nscareeroptions.ca

OCCUPATIONS UNIQUE TO PRIMARY INDUSTRY

Section8_PrimaryIndustry 07/10/10 11:27 AM Page 161

Nature of the WorkLabourers in primary industryinclude many general labouringoccupations that do not requiremuch formal training but do requirea high level of strength and physicalstamina.

These workers sort, load, andpack materials; operate andmaintain machinery and equipment;and assist tradespeople.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and mechanical aptitudewould be helpful. You must be ableto take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.


Other ConsiderationsMost labourers work for part of theyear and typically earn less thanhalf the yearly income ofemployees who work year round.Some labouring jobs are seasonal;others are not. Wages varyaccording to the specific type ofwork performed, and annualincomes of many workers in theseoccupations are relatively low.Labourers in primary industry areoften exposed to harsh weatherconditions. The physical demands of this work can make it difficult forpeople to stay in these jobs for a long time.


Jobs in this occupational categoryinclude labourers in harvesting,landscaping and grounds mainte-nance, aquaculture and marineharvest, mines, oil and gas drillingand servicing and logging andforestry. The part-time and/orseasonal nature of jobs and low paycontribute to a large turnover rateand a strong availability of employ-ment opportunities. Workers aregenerally young and thereforeretirements will not contributesignificantly to job openings.Although the introduction ofautomation such as mechanicalharvesters have offset some of the historical demand for harvestlabourers, foreign workers areregularly hired by some employersto ensure that crops are harvested.

Forest harvesting has becomeincreasingly mechanized andrequires fewer labourers, howeverthe nature of the work createsopenings through attrition. Thelimited amount of explorationactivity for natural gas offshore hasconstrained employment opportuni-ties for oil and gas drilling andservicing labourers. The currentdemand/supply situation for minelabourers is in reasonable balancewhen compared to occupationsoverall. Aquaculture operations are generally small with limitednumbers of jobs. Sales to the U.S.market have been negativelyaffected by the strengthening of the Canadian dollar against the U.S.As a result production is down andjob opportunities are reduced.

Typical JobsApple PickerFish Farm HelperSod LayerTree PlanterMine Labourer

Related OccupationsAgriculture and Horticulture WorkersAquaculture Operators and

ManagersFishing Vessel Deckhands, Trappers,

and HuntersResidential, Automotive, and

Other Installers and RepairersUnderground Drillers, Blasters,

and MinersOil and Gas Well Drilling and

Services Workers

Labourers in Primary Industry

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations Unique to Primary Industry 167

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Fair

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Nature of the WorkOil and gas well drillers and wellservicers control the operation ofdrilling and hoisting equipment ondrilling rigs and direct the activitiesof the rig crew. They are alsoresponsible for training the rig crewand maintaining records of drillingand servicing operations. Oil and gas well loggers and testersuse specialized tools and equipmentto collect data, record information,and conduct procedures and tests.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudeare helpful. You must be able totake direction and carry out instruc-tions given by supervisors.

Regulation RequirementsRig TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.


No large employment increasesare anticipated, even during periodsof active drilling. The number ofretiring workers will not contributesignificantly to job openingsbecause most vacancies are filledinternally from existing staff.Competition for positions can comefrom outside and workers need tobe very mobile to maintain employ-ment over long periods of time.Most vacancies are filled from thosewho have worked in the industryand moved up through the ranks.

Typical JobsService Rig OperatorGas DrillerDriller, Oil and Gas DrillingDrill Stem TesterWell Testing Operator

Related OccupationsOil and Gas Well Drilling and

Services WorkersWater Well Drillers

Oil and Gas Well Drillers and Related OccupationsLA

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Outlook

Limited

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170 Occupations Unique to Primary Industry Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013






Nature of the WorkOil and gas well drilling workersoperate drilling and service rigmachinery as intermediatemembers of the rig crew. They helpto align sections of pipe and drillstems from platforms on rigderricks, maintain drilling mudsystems and pumps, and operatemotors and other mechanicalequipment.

Oil and gas well servicesoperators drive trucks, treat wells to stimulate production, and placecement in wells using specializedhydraulic pumping equipment.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudeare helpful. You must be able totake direction and carry out instruc-tions given by supervisors.



Workers in this occupationalgroup are employed by drilling andwell service contractors, petroleum-producing companies, and welllogging or testing companies.Energy prices will impact theamount of new exploration andmajor production projects for thepetroleum industry in Nova Scotia.Offshore oil and gas companiesstationed off Sable Island havecreated some jobs for NovaScotians.

This is not a large occupationalgroup, and no large employmentincreases are anticipated, evenduring periods of active drilling.Competition for positions can comefrom outside the area and workersneed to be very mobile to maintainemployment over long periods oftime. Most vacancies are filled fromthose who have worked in theindustry and moved up through theranks. Retirements are not expectedto contribute significantly to jobopenings in the coming years.

Typical JobsChemical Services OperatorAcid Truck DriverDerrickman/womanPumpman/woman

Related OccupationsLabourers in Primary IndustryOil and Gas Well Drillers and

Related Occupations

Oil and Gas Well Drilling and Services Workers

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations Unique to Primary Industry 171

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Limited

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Estimated openings due to growthand retirements, 2009-2014-1



Nature of the WorkMiners drill, blast, operate miningmachinery, and perform relatedduties to extract coal and ore inunderground mines and to constructtunnels, passageways, and shaftsfor mining operations.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudeare also helpful. You must be ableto take direction and carry outinstructions given by supervisors.



Employment prospects for thosein the mining industry are verysensitive to changes in the businesscycle, in addition to other factorssuch as government regulations and rules, tax incentives, availabilityof reserves, and technologicaladvancement. High metal andenergy product prices, driven bygrowing demand from emergingmarkets such as China, may createemployment opportunities in theevent of increased mining activity.

The mining industry has seenhigh levels of unemployment due to mine closures in the province.Also, the mining industry has seen atrend towards the use of technologywhich allows more work to be donewith fewer workers, resulting in a decline in the number of under-ground and production miners.Retirements are not anticipated to contribute significantly to jobopenings for this occupation in the coming years.

Typical JobsDriller, Underground MiningMining Machine OperatorShaft InspectorBlaster, Underground MiningMiner

Related OccupationsLabourers in Primary IndustryUnderground Mine Service and

Support WorkersDrillers and Blasters

Underground Drillers, Blasters, and MinersLA

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Outlook

Limited

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172 Occupations Unique to Primary Industry Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013






nscareeroptions.ca

OCCUPATIONS UNIQUE TO PROCESSING, MANUFACTURING, AND UTILITIES

Section9_ProcManu 07/10/10 11:29 AM Page 173

Nature of the WorkWorkers in these occupationsassemble, fit, and wire heavy-dutyindustrial electrical equipment.

SkillsThis work requires excellent spatialperception, form perception, andeye-to-finger coordination. You mustbe accurate and able to pay closeattention to detail. You must have a keen interest in working withmachines and routine processes.You should also be physically fit andhave good eyesight and hearing.



This industry is increasinglyadopting high-technology manufac-turing processes in order to remaincompetitive. In this occupationalgroup, the outlook is best forproduction assemblers in electricalequipment manufacturing. Thisoccupation is sensitive to overalleconomic conditions. The number of employers for this occupation islimited, and self-employment israre.

Typical JobsIndustrial Electrical FitterIndustrial Electrical Motor InspectorElectrical FitterTransformer Inspector



Assemblers, Electrical Appliance andIndustrial Motors

Oil Burner, Electrical and OtherMechanics

Assemblers and Inspectors, Electrical Appliance and Industrial Motors

Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Occupations Unique to Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities 175

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176 Occupations Unique to Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013

Nature of the WorkThis group includes those who puttogether, make, and inspect elec-trical and electronic parts andequipment.

Assemblers and fabricatorsoperate machinery to make orassemble parts and products,assemble parts by hand, set upequipment, and perform minorrepairs to items rejected from theproduction line. Inspectors monitor production andtroubleshoot production problems,identify and mark assemblies asacceptable or defective, returnfaulty assemblies for repair, andcollect, record, and summarizeinspection results.




This occupation is sensitive tooverall economic conditions andmany of this industry’s products,such as industrial electricalequipment, face global competitionfor market share. This is a verysmall occupational group in NovaScotia. Retirements will notcontribute significantly to jobopenings, and self-employment is rare.

Typical JobsElectrical AssemblerDishwasher AssemblerAC and DC Motor AssemblerElectrical Appliance AssemblerElectrical Appliance AssemblyInspector

Related OccupationsElectronics Assemblers, Fabricators,

and TestersAssemblers, Fabricators, and

Inspectors, Industrial etc.Oil Burner, Electrical, and Other

Mechanics

Assemblers, Fabricators, and Inspectors, Industrial Electrical Equipment

Outlook

Limited

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes those whomake, assemble, and finish a widevariety of products or inspect thefinished products for quality.For example, boat builders makewooden, fibreglass, and metal boatssuch as sailboats, canoes, andmotor boats. Boat inspectors checkthe assembled boats to ensureproduct quality.

Furniture assemblers makearticles of furniture, and inspectorscheck the finished products toensure product quality. Assemblersmight work with other woodproducts, such as window sashesand doors, or with plastics or fibreglass. Furniture finishers applyspecified colours and finishes tonew wood or metal furniture.Furniture refinishers make repaired,used, or old furniture look like new.

Industrial painters and coaterswork with brushes or sprayequipment to apply paint, enamel,lacquer, and other coatings to awide variety of products, includingairplanes, automobiles, andbathtubs.

Metal sprayers and platers coatarticles with metal. Other workersin this group assemble or inspectjewellery, silverware, clocks,watches, musical instruments,sporting goods, and toys.

SkillsThese occupations require mechan-ical aptitude and physical fitness.Good spatial perception, formperception, and hand-eye coordina-tion are important. You must beaccurate and attentive to detail.



Employment prospects differ forthe various occupations included inthis grouping.

Demand for boatbuilders is linkedto the strength of the boatbuildingindustry in Nova Scotia. The boat-building industry in Nova Scotia issensitive to conditions in the fishingindustry. During years in whichcatches are low or fish or lobsterprices are low, the demand for newfishing boats decreases. Someemployers have diversified and alsomake pleasure craft. While this hasled to better overall prospects, thepleasure craft business is sensitiveto global economic conditions,particularly the demand for luxuryproducts. Strong foreign competitionhas been adding pressure to thepleasure craft business. There arefew employers of this occupation inNova Scotia, and a few employershave closed in recent years.

Demand for furniture and woodproduct assemblers and inspectorsis also sensitive to economic condi-tions. Also, companies face strongcompetition for market share fromglobal competitors. Occasionalopportunities may arise formillwork. Many furniture finishersand refinishers are self-employed.

There may be some opportunitiesfor plastic products assemblers,finishers, and inspectors throughoutthe province, since the occupationgroup may work in a variety ofindustries, including as fibreglasslaminators for boatbuilders, plasticcontainer manufacturing, andothers.

Typical JobsMetal Spray OperatorPrefabricated Housing AssemblerBoat BuilderFurniture AssemblerBicycle Assembler

Related OccupationsMachining, Metalworking,

Woodworking, and RelatedMachine Operators

Labourers in Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities

Motor Vehicle Body RepairersCarpentersCabinetmakersPainters, Roofers, and Other

Construction Trades

Boat Builders, Furniture Assemblers, and Related Occupations

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkThese people operate processcontrol machinery and equipment in industries such as refineries, steelmills, chemical plants, and pulpmills. Duties include coordinatingand monitoring the operation of a particular aspect of mineral,metal, cement, chemical, or pulpprocessing through control panels orcomputer terminals; completing andmaintaining production reports;participating in safety audits andprograms; and providing emergencyresponse when required.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould be responsible and alert. You need mechanical aptitude andstrong computer skills. You must beable to work as part of a team.



There are few employers thathire significantly in these occupa-tions. Decreased offshore gasproduction and the abandonment ofoffshore exploration licenses havelowered the prospects for operatorsin oil, gas, and chemical processes.Pulp and paper operations aresensitive to global economic condi-tions, and some employers havereduced output. In addition, a smallbut stable workforce exists for theseoperators, with vacancies rare.While some opportunities may arise from retirements, retirementand attrition is not expected tocontribute significantly to prospectsfor these occupations.

Typical JobsChemical Process OperatorGas Plant OperatorPipeline Compressor Station

OperatorPulping Control OperatorRolling Mill Control Operator



Stationary and Power EngineersMachine Operators in Metal and

Mineral Products ProcessingMachine Operators in Chemical,

Plastic, and Rubber ProcessingMachine Operators in Pulp and

Paper Production and WoodProcessing

Central Control and Process Operators in Manufacturing and Processing

Outlook

Limited

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Nature of the WorkAssemblers and fabricators operatemachinery to make or put togetherparts and products, assemble partsby hand, set up equipment, andperform minor repairs to itemsrejected from the production line.Inspectors and testers ensure thatelectronic assemblies, parts, andcomponents meet expectedstandards.



Other ConsiderationsSelf-employment in these occupa-tions is rare, and work is nottypically seasonal.


The electronic componentsindustry in Nova Scotia is affectedby global competition from foreignproducers who have loweroperating costs. This occupationalfield is sensitive to overall economicconditions. The recent resurgence inactivity for electronic manufacturinghas, however, increased thedemands for persons with an elec-tronic and engineering background.As these businesses enhance theirglobal marketing potential thedemand may well out-perform thecurrent local labour supply withthese skills.

Although an academic educationand related job skills are oftendesired for persons entering thisoccupational group, as the labourmarket tightens, some employersmay be willing to hire people withminimal education if they have apositive attitude and the necessarysoft skills like problem solving,team work and good communica-tion skills. This industry excels inNova Scotia especially in the MetroHalifax area and the AnnapolisValley area, where recent expansionhas increased demand for theseoccupations.

Typical JobsWave Soldering Machine OperatorElectronics InspectorElectronic Components TesterCircuit Board Assembler



Assemblers and Inspectors, ElectricalAppliance and Industrial Motors

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes many occupa-tions that do not require a highlevel of formal training. Theyoperate and monitor various typesof machinery and equipment, loadand transport materials, and check,sort, assemble, or packagematerials and products. Theygenerally work indoors.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good physical health.You must be able to take directionand carry out instructions given by a supervisor.


Other ConsiderationsWork patterns vary according to thetype of business and the type ofwork. Much of the work is seasonal.Part-time and shift work arecommon.


The largest occupations includedin this group are labourers in food,beverage and tobacco, labourers infish processing, and labourers inrubber and plastic product manufac-turing.

For fish-plant workers, mostemployment opportunities for thisoccupation are found in thesouthwest and South Shore areas ofNova Scotia. Resource availabilityhas impacted the processing sector.Due to the decline of the groundfishery, the demand for fish workershas also declined. Also, there hasbeen a significant consolidation

of fish-processing operations. This work is often seasonal, and it is common for employers to hirethe same workers year after year.Promotions generally occur fromwithin the organization.

For labourers in food, beverageand tobacco, employment isconcentrated in the Annapolis Valleyarea and involves processing agri-cultural products. For this occupa-tional group, many positions areseasonal. Wages are typically lowfor these occupations, and turnoveris commonly high.

The demand for labourers inmetal fabrication depends on largeprojects starting in the province. In turn, these projects depend on global economic conditions,including the demand for variouscommodities such as oil and gas.Some opportunities may arise forlabourers in wood and paperprocessing, but the demand forthese workers is often seasonal. For rubber and plastic productsmanufacturing labourers, a fairlylarge number of labourers are hiredeach year, some on a seasonalbasis. Most labourers are graduatingstudents, and particular skills aredemanded.

Typical JobsShellfish PackerPlywood Drier FeederLabourer, Rubber ManufacturingFoundry LabourerBox PackerDairy Helper

Related OccupationsBoatbuilders, Furniture Assemblers,

and Related OccupationsMachining, Metalworking,


Central Control and ProcessOperators in Manufacturing andProducing

Residential, Automotive, and OtherInstallers and Repairers

Power Station and Power SystemsOperators

Machine Operators (various)

Labourers in Processing, Manufacturing, and UtilitiesLA

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Fair

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes many machine-related occupations that requiresome skill and are generallyperformed indoors. These workershelp with repairs and maintenanceof machinery, handle materials,monitor machine operations, andclean work areas.

Chemical plant machine operatorsmix, process, and packagechemicals, pharmaceuticals, andcleaning and toiletry products.Mixing machine operators, extrudingprocess operators, moulding processoperators, and calendering processoperators operate machines used tomanufacture plastic products.Rubber processing machineoperators, assemblers, and inspec-tors are involved in the manufactureof rubber products.

Water plant operators and wasteplant operators monitor and operatecomputerized control systems andequipment to regulate thetreatment and distribution of waterand the treatment and disposal ofsewage and wastes.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould be responsible, alert, and ingood physical health. You needgood coordination, agility, andmechanical aptitude. You must beable to take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.



Employment prospects in thechemicals industry has beenaffected by the announcement ofdelays in starting major projects.There are few employers of theseoccupations. However, vacanciesoccasionally arise for plasticsprocessing machine operators.Employers of this occupation aresensitive to changes in generaleconomic conditions and demandfor their products. Recently, someemployers have slowed production.

Opportunities may arise forprocessing machine operators in therubber industry. In particular, skilledcandidates may find opportunities.While employers of these occupa-tions are sensitive to global demandfor their products, some operationshave managed to avoid layoffs in recent years. Retirements andattrition will contribute to jobopenings in the coming years. Thereis little turnover in water and wasteplant operators. However, upgradesto treatment plants may providesome opportunities in the comingyears.

Typical JobsMixer, Chemical ProcessingExtruder Operator, Plastic

ManufacturingRubber Processing Machine OperatorTire BuilderWater Treatment Plant OperatorSewage Plant Operator

Related OccupationsBoat Builders, Furniture Assemblers,

and Related OccupationsLabourers in Processing,

Manufacturing, and UtilitiesCentral Control and Process

Operators in Manufacturing andProcessing

Residential, Automotive and OtherInstallers and Repairers

Machine Operators in Chemical, Plastic, and Rubber Processing

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes many machine-related occupations that requiresome skill and are generallyperformed indoors. These workershelp with repairs and maintenanceof machinery, feed conveyors andother equipment, handle materials,monitor machine operations, andclean work areas.

Mineral and metal processingmachine operators process mineralore and metal products. Foundryfurnace operators run the furnacesin foundries to melt and castmetals. Mineral and metal inspec-tors and testers inspect and gradethe finished product.

Other machine operators in thisgroup control machinery to formproducts made of glass, concrete,clay, or stone.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould be responsible, alert, and ingood physical health. You must havegood coordination, agility, andmechanical aptitude. You must beable to take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.



Employment prospects forconcrete, clay, and stone formingoperators are closely tied to activityin the construction industry, whichuses these products. There aregenerally few vacancies in theseoccupations. There are fewemployers for machine operators inmetal and mineral processing, glassforming and finishing, and foundryworkers. Employment prospects foroccupations mineral and metalprocessing operations are affectedby global mining activity and thestrength of mineral prices. Mineralproduction in Nova Scotia isdominated by industrial mineralssuch as gypsum, sand and gravel,and salt. Employment for theseoccupations is also tied to the levelof activity in the constructionindustry.

Typical JobsMetal Processing Machine OperatorDie-casting Machine OperatorFoundry WorkerGlass MoulderGlass CutterConcrete Miller


OfficersArtisans, Craftspersons, and Related

OccupationsLabourers in Processing,

Manufacturing, and UtilitiesCentral Control and Process

Operators in Manufacturing andProcessing

BricklayersConcrete Finishers

Machine Operators in Metal and Mineral Products Processing

Outlook

Limited

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Nature of the WorkThis group includes many occupa-tions that make use of machinery.

Machining tool operators workwith metal-cutting machinesdesigned to do repetitive machiningwork. Forging machine operatorsform and shape metal into variousshapes and sizes with the desiredstrength or hardness. Woodworkingmachine operators make and repairwooden parts for furniture andother wood products. Metalworkingmachine operators form metal intoparts and products. Others operatemachines to make jewellery,buttons, pencils, crayons, brushes,and many other items.

Duties of operators can includesetting up and operating machinery,cleaning and lubricating equipment,replacing parts as necessary, andreading and interpreting specifica-tions or following verbal instruc-tions.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have mechanical aptitudeand good physical health. You mustbe accurate and attentive to detail.You must be able to take directionand carry out instructions.


Other ConsiderationsShift work is common in these occupations.


Machining tool operators in metaland woodworking have betteremployment prospects if they haveCNC experience and a backgroundin modern production technologies.Automation has affected thedemand for these occupations.Opportunities arise occasionally inthese occupations, and there isgenerally enough labour availableto meet the demand. In addition,NSCC campuses provide a steadysupply of graduates in these

occupations. While machining tooloperators may work in a variety ofindustries, many manufacturingindustries have been facing chal-lenges in recent years: Industriesthat employ these occupations aresensitive to global economic condi-tions.

Typical JobsAircraft Parts EtcherForging Press OperatorLathe Machine OperatorPunch Press OperatorWoodworking Machine Operator

Related OccupationsWeldersMachinists, Tool and Die Makers,

and Tooling Inspectors

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Nature of the WorkWeavers, knitters, and loomoperators process yarn and threadinto products and may also quiltand embroider fabrics. Textile fibreand yarn preparation machineoperators prepare textile fibres andspin, wind, and twist yarn andthread. Textile dyers and finishingmachine operators bleach, dye, andfinish textile products. Inspectors,graders, and samplers ensure thatthe finished products meet qualitystandards.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould be responsible, alert, and ingood physical health. You must havegood coordination, agility, and

mechanical aptitude. You must beable to take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.


Other ConsiderationsShift work is common in many of these jobs.


The textiles industry in NovaScotia faces extremely tough inter-national competition. Inexpensiveforeign clothing imports competewith locally produced clothing,which has higher operating costs.The development of niche marketsis important for this industry as suchmarkets are less susceptible to fluc-tuations in economic conditions andchanges in taste and fashion. Somelarger employers for this occupa-tional group have scaled back theiroperations significantly in the pastfew years and this has negativelyaffected demand for these occupa-tions. Overall, the number ofemployers for these occupations inNova Scotia is limited, and laid offworkers throughout the province

adequately supply the needs ofemployers in these occupations.

Typical JobsWeaverCarpet WeaverKnitting Machine OperatorDyerScreen Printing Operator, Textile

ManufacturingCloth Grader

Related OccupationsArtisans, Craftspersons, and Related

OccupationsMachine Operators in Fabric, Fur,

and Leather Products Manufacturing

Textile Machinery Mechanics andRepairers

Machine Operators in Textile Processing

Outlook

Limited

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Machining, Metalworking, Woodworking, and Related Machine Operators



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Nature of the WorkMechanical assemblers put togethera wide variety of products such astrucks, buses, snowmobiles, tractors,hydraulic pumps, and sewingmachines.

Mechanical inspectors check bothsubassemblies and finished productsfor quality and performance.

SkillsThis work requires excellent spatialperception, form perception, andeye-to-finger coordination. You mustbe accurate and able to pay closeattention to detail. You need a keeninterest in working with machinesand routine processes. You shouldalso be physically fit and have goodeyesight and hearing.



Assemblers and inspectors in thisgroup are primarily employed bymachinery and transportationequipment manufacturers. Many of these products compete globallyfor market share, and these manu-facturers are sensitive to overalleconomic conditions. Because theUnited States is a large exportmarket of many of these goods, thestrength of the US economy affectsthis occupation. There are very fewpotential employers in this occupa-tion, and some plants were shut

down in recent years. While there issome opportunity in this occupation,overall employment for this occupa-tional group is low.

Typical JobsAutomotive Engine AssemblerSewing Machine AssemblerSnowmobile AssemblerVending Machine AssemblerTruck Assembly Inspector

Related OccupationsAircraft Assemblers and Aircraft

Assembly InspectorsMotor Vehicle Assemblers,

Inspectors, and TestersMachine Fitters

Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors

Outlook

Fair

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Motor Vehicle Assemblers, Inspectors, and Testers

Nature of the WorkMotor vehicle assemblers build carsby installing parts and componentsto form subassemblies, and fittingand adjusting parts such as doors,hoods, and trunk lids.

Inspectors and testers ensureproper performance of the parts andtest the finished vehicles by drivingthem or using roll-testing devices.

SkillsThis work requires excellent spatialperception, form perception, andeye-to-finger coordination. You mustbe accurate and able to pay closeattention to detail. You need tohave a keen interest in workingwith machines and routineprocesses. You should be physicallyfit and have good eyesight andhearing.



There is little or no motor vehicleassembly done in Nova Scotia.Motor vehicle inspectors are oftenemployed by the provincial govern-ment, and is a very small occupa-tion group. Due to the small size of the occupation group, employeeturnover and retirements is notexpected to contribute significantlyto employment opportunities.

Typical JobsTransmission AssemblerAuto Assembly WorkerMotor Vehicle AssemblerMotor Vehicle Assembly InspectorTest Driver, Automobile Assembly

Related OccupationsMotor Vehicle MechanicsMechanical Assemblers and

Inspectors

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nscareeroptions.ca

TRADES, TRANSPORT AND EQUIPMENTOPERATORS, AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS

Section11_Trade 07/10/10 11:33 AM Page 213

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Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013 Trades, Transport and Equipment Operators, and Related Occupations 215

Boilermakers

Nature of the WorkBoilermakers fabricate, assemble,erect, and repair boilers; read blue-prints or specifications to plan oper-ations; and set up and operateheavy metalworking machines.

SkillsThis work requires a good mechan-ical aptitude. You must beresourceful and able to makedecisions. You will need good form perception, physical strength,coordination, and agility.

Regulation RequirementsBoilermakerThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsAdvances in technology, newmaterials, higher-quality welds andwelding material, and larger liftsand lifting capacity have createdmany changes in this occupation.The increased size and complexityof construction projects, often inremote areas, contributes to a morecompetitive contractor environmentand to a very mobile trade. Boiler-makers are generally mobile andmove to where there is employ-ment. The work of a boilermaker is extremely hazardous, due to thepossibility of exposure to materialsand gases that could create healthproblems. Attention to safety andaccident prevention is veryimportant for this occupation. Thewage rate for apprentices is usuallya percentage of the journeypersonrate, increasing on completion ofeach stage of the apprenticeshipprogram.

Boilermaker is a Red Seal trade.Those who pass the certificationexam will receive the Red Sealendorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Boilermakers are employed in a variety of industries such as manufacturing, shipbuilding,construction and electric powergeneration. This is not a large occupational group and boiler-makers need to be mobile, as work can be tied to large industrialprojects spread around the province.There are few employers that wouldmaintain a permanent staff of boil-ermakers and so periods of unem-ployment are not uncommon. Theterm “boilermaker” is often usedbroadly, and can sometimes referlocally to workers in other similaroccupations with similar skills as well.

Not much growth is expectedoverall in the occupation over the next five years, although theamount of work should remain relatively stable. Most of thedemand for new workers will come through attrition. This is a compulsory certified trade in Nova Scotia.

Typical JobsBoiler InstallerBoiler Shop MechanicBoilermaker

Related OccupationsWeldersContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and RelatedStructural Metal and Platework

Fabricators and FittersIronworkers


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220 Trades, Transport and Equipment Operators, and Related Occupations Nova Scotia Career Options 2011-2013





Outlook

Limited

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Commercial Divers

Nature of the WorkCommercial divers perform under-water tasks related to construction,inspection, search, salvage, repair,seafood harvesting, aquaculture,and photography.

For example, they performoffshore oil and gas exploration andextraction duties. They operateunderwater video or film produc-tion, sonar, and recordingequipment. They inspect vessels,buoyancy systems, and pipelines;perform underwater constructionduties; set up and detonate explo-sives; and participate in search andrescue operations. In addition, theyare required to check and maintaindiving equipment.

SkillsTo be a dive, you should be adven-turous, yet cautious, alert, and ableto remain calm under stress.Physical stamina, good health,agility, coordination, and mechanicalaptitude are important. You must beable to take direction and carry outinstructions given by supervisors.


Other ConsiderationsMost successful commercial divershave an additional specialty such as welding.


Activity in offshore oil and gas aswell as fishing generates work forthis occasion. The work tends to beon a contract basis and often forshort periods of time. In order tomaximize chances for employment,divers must be mobile throughoutthe country and even the world.Concerns have been raised about an aging workforce and globalshortages.

Many commercial divers are selfemployed. Those with additionalrelated skills, such as welding orelectronics, will have an advantagein gaining employment. It can bemore difficult for newly traineddivers to get full time work in the area, and some end up leavingthe occupation because of this andother factors, such as the physicaldemands and challenging workenvironment.

Typical JobsSeafood HarvesterUnderwater ContractorUnderwater Film ProductionEquipment OperatorUnderwater WelderOffshore Diver

Related OccupationsPolice OfficersWeldersCanadian Forces Occupations


Nature of the WorkConstruction trades helpers andlabourers help skilled tradespersonsand perform labouring duties atconstruction sites. Labourers helpinstall and repair equipment andmachinery in a wide variety ofsettings, including industry, trans-portation, refrigeration and airconditioning, and telecommunica-tions.

SkillsYou need good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudewould be helpful. You must be ableto take direction and be able tocarry out instructions given by a supervisor.

Regulation RequirementsConstruction Craft WorkerNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsMost construction trades helpersand labourers work full-time, butoften for only part of the yearbecause this work is highlyseasonal.


Demand for construction andother trades labourers is tied toconstruction activity, transportationand warehousing, and variousservice-sector industries. Investmentin non-residential building andhome renovations will drivedemand, as new residential buildingis expected to decline. Employmentfor construction labourers is forecastto decline over the next five years.

There are typically a largenumber of postings for constructionlabourers throughout a year, espe-cially during peak times and relatedto large projects. However, therealso appears to be a large supply ofworkers and entry requirements arelimited. The work is often seasonaland related to short-term projects,so periods of unemployment arecommon. The workforce is youngand most of the openings are eitherat the start of the season or due toturnover; retirements will notgenerate a substantial number ofopenings. Workers may need to bemobile when large projects occuroutside their area.

Typical JobsCarpenter HelperFlagman/womanAircraft Mechanic HelperConstruction LabourerSurveyor Helper

Related OccupationsAircraft Technicians and InspectorsCarpentersPublic Works, Railway, and MotorTransport LabourersSurvey Technicians and

Technologists

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Estimated openings due to growthand retirements, 2009-2014-125




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Nature of the WorkConstruction millwrights and indus-trial mechanics install, maintain,and repair stationary industrialmachinery and mechanicalequipment.

They read diagrams andschematic drawings to determinework procedures and construct foun-dations for machinery, stationaryindustrial machinery, and mechan-ical equipment. They also assemblemachinery and equipment prior toinstallation; inspect and examinemachinery and equipment formalfunctions; and perform routinemaintenance work on machinery.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have an interest in elec-tronics and mechanical operations. A background in mathematics andthe sciences is helpful. You must beable to co-operate with others andperform routine tasks. You needagility, physical strength, and hand-eye coordination. You must alsohave good vision and hearing andan inclination to work with tools.

Regulation RequirementsIndustrial Mechanic (Millwright)Nova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Mine MechanicNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsThe wage rate for apprentices isusually a percentage of the jour-neyperson rate, increasing uponcompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program. Construc-tion millwrights are employed bymillwrighting contractors, and industrial mechanics are employedin manufacturing plants, utilities,and other industrial establishments.Employment in these occupations is not seasonal but can be sensitiveto overall economic conditions.

Industrial Mechanic and Mill-wright are Red Seal trades. Thosewho pass the certification exam will receive the Red Seal endorse-ment (allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


Employment conditions for thisoccupations are tied to generaleconomic conditions and the stateof the manufacturing sector. Thereare ongoing job vacancies for thisoccupation and some employers areindicating their workers are nearingretirement. Opportunities will bebest for those with certificationand/or have lots of experience.Less experienced workers mayexperience difficulty finding work,and work opportunities can vary,depending on the ability of majoremployers in manufacturing andindustrial construction to obtaincontracts. Construction millwrightsneed to be mobile when workslows down. Many workers, inrecent years, have been spendingpart of their year working inwestern Canada.

Ongoing developments amongmanufacturers to streamline workprocesses, improve ISO quality,minimize waste and create greateroverall efficiencies in production haskept this occupational group at theforefront. However, some manufac-turers use electronic technicians to perform some types of worktraditionally done by millwrights.The NSCC has a program in electromechanics which incorporateelements required for industrialelectricians and industrialmechanics. Overall, this occupationappears to be stable.

Typical JobsOil DrillerMaintenance MillwrightPlant Equipment MechanicTreatment Plant Mechanic



Contractors and Supervisors, Tradesand Related

Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics

Outlook

Fair

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Contractors and Supervisors, Trades and Related

Nature of the WorkThese people supervise machinists,electricians, plumbers, sheet metalworkers, carpenters, mechanics,heavy equipment operators, roofers,and painters.

They establish methods to meetwork schedules and coordinatework activities with other depart-ments, order supplies, and resolvework problems. They recommendways to improve productivity;recommend hiring and promotions;arrange for training of workers; test,grade, and sample work for qualitycontrol; and prepare productionreports.

SkillsYou must be able to work well witha variety of people. You needphysical stamina and good motorskills. Leadership and effective oraland written communication skillsare essential. You must also be ableto prepare cost estimates, maintainproduction schedules, supervisestaff, and work as part of a team.You should be prepared to keep upwith new techniques, equipment,and materials.


Other ConsiderationsMost people in these occupationswork full-time, but often for onlypart of each year. Jobs in theconstruction industry are stronglyaffected by seasonal changes andgeneral economic conditions, andworkers should be prepared forperiods of unemployment. Also,many work on a project basis andcan expect periods of unemploy-ment throughout the year. People in these occupations usually havesignificant non-supervisory experience in related occupations.

Many of the occupations in thisgroup are Red Seal trades. Thosewho pass the certification exam willreceive the Red Seal endorsement(allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


A wide variety of occupations areincluded in the group. The majorityare employed in either the construc-tion or manufacturing sector, whereemployment conditions aresensitive to the business cycle.Investment in non-residentialbuilding and home renovations willdrive demand for trades contractorsand supervisors, as new residentialbuilding is expected to decline. Themanufacturing sector was hurt bythe recent economic recession, butactivity is expected to rebound overthe coming few years.

Self-employment is an optionacross most of the trades within thisgroup. Companies often fill supervi-sory positions through internalpromotion, which may make itmore difficult for external personsto enter them directly. The employ-ment prospects are best for thosewith experience and certification.The majority of vacancies over thecoming years are expected to arisethrough turnover and retirements,as this is an older workforce.

Typical JobsPlumbing ContractorRoofing ContractorCarpenter SupervisorCable Maintenance and Repair

SupervisorHeavy Equipment Operator

SupervisorContractor, Heating Systems

Related OccupationsPlumbersWeldersElectriciansHeavy Equipment OperatorsMachinists, Tool and Die Makers,

and Tooling MakersCarpentersSheet Metal WorkersRefrigeration and Air Conditioning

MechanicsCable Television Service and

Maintenance Technicians



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Crane Operators

Nature of the WorkPeople in these occupations operatecranes or draglines to lift, move,position, or place machinery,equipment, and other large objects. Crane operators work at construc-tion and industrial sites, ports,railway yards, and other locations.They operate mobile and towercranes, cranes equipped withdredging attachments, gantrycranes, locomotive cranes, bridge or overhead cranes, offshore oil rigcranes, and cranes mounted onboats. They dredge waterways,drive piles into the ground toprovide support for buildings andother structures, and move, lift,load, or unload machinery. Craneoperators might also performroutine maintenance work such as cleaning and lubricating cranes.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and mechanical aptitudeare helpful qualities. You must alsobe able to work at heights, workwith precision and attention todetail, take direction, and carry outinstructions given by supervisors.

Regulation RequirementsBoom Truck OperatorsNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Tower Crane OperatorsThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Mobile Crane OperatorThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Overhead Crane OperatorsThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsRobotics and computerized controlswill increase the skill requirementsfor crane operators.

Mobile Crane Operators is a RedSeal trade. Those who pass thecertification exam will receive theRed Seal endorsement (allowing forinterprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


The occupation is found acrossmany industries including construc-tion, manufacturing,shipbuilding/repair, and ware-housing. It can be difficult to findqualified and experienced workersat peak times of the year. Duringslow periods crane operators may have to be mobile to takeadvantage of opportunities. Thework is often seasonal or part yearin nature, and so periods of unem-ployment are common. Overtimeand weekend work can be expectedduring the summer months. Most jobs will take place throughreplacement needs, as opposed toemployment growth.

Typical JobsDragline Crane OperatorConstruction Crane OperatorBridge Crane OperatorMobile Crane OperatorTractor Crane Operator

Related OccupationsHeavy Equipment OperatorsContractors and Supervisors, Trades

and Related



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Nature of the WorkDrillers in this group operate mobiledrilling machines to bore blast holesin open-pit mines and quarries, andto bore holes for blasting and forbuilding foundations at constructionsites. They fill blast holes withexplosives and detonate explosivesto dislodge coal, ore and rock or to demolish structures. They areemployed by mining, quarrying, and construction companies and bydrilling and blasting contractors.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldhave good physical strength,stamina, and health. The ability tofollow precise instructions and obeysafety regulations is essential. Youmust be cautious, responsible, andable to work as a member of ateam. You should have mechanicalaptitude and an ability to use tools.

Regulation RequirementsBlasterNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.


Demand for this occupation islinked to activity in the mining andconstruction sectors. The economicrecession negatively impacted themining industry, resulting in layoffsand closures. As economic condi-tions improve and commodity pricesrebound, some activity will return.However, employment declines areexpected in mining and residentialconstruction in Nova Scotia over thecoming five years. Non-residentialbuilding and infrastructure construc-tion are expected to remain stableover this period.

This is a small occupationalgroup, employing around 100, and so not many positions willcome available through retirementsover the next five years. The workis often seasonal and periods ofunemployment are common.Workers in the occupation arerequired to be mobile.

Typical JobsBlaster, Surface MiningConstruction BlasterConstruction DrillerFoundation Drill Operator

Related OccupationsContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and RelatedUnderground Drillers, Blasters,

and MinersOil and Gas Well Drillers and

Related Occupations

Drillers and Blasters

Outlook

Limited

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Nature of the WorkPower line technicians and cableworkers construct, maintain, andrepair lines and cables or overheadand underground electrical powertransmission and distributionsystems. Power line technicianserect and maintain steel, wood, or concrete poles, towers, and guywires. These workers inspect andtest overhead and undergroundlines and cables. They must climbladders or operate hydraulic bucketswhen working on poles and towers,and they sometimes work inconfined spaces such as trenchesand tunnels.

SkillsThis work requires accuracy, caution,and attention to detail. You must beable to work to precise specifica-tions and levels of safety wheninstalling and repairing cables andpower lines. You need physicalstamina, good hand-eye coordina-tion, and electrical aptitude. Youshould also have a background in mathematics and the sciences.

Regulation RequirementsPowerline TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsPower Line Technician is a Red Sealtrade. Those who pass the certifica-tion exam will receive the Red Sealendorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


The main employer for this occu-pation is Nova Scotia Power(Emera), which has the responsi-bility for generating and transmit-ting electrical power to customers in Nova Scotia. Legislated require-ments for Nova Scotia Power tomeet renewable energy targets is driving investment in alternativeenergy sources including wind,biomass and tidal. There is also aongoing need to repair and upgradeinfrastructure. The constructionsector also employs this occupa-tional group and investment incommercial, industrial, and institu-tional buildings should providestable opportunities in the comingyears.

This is not a large workforce, so opportunities are infrequent.However, the workforce is agingand so opportunities will begin toarise through retirements.

Typical JobsPower Line TechnicianElectrical Power Cable InstallerPower Lineman/womanCable Splicer, Electrical Power


Trades and RelatedTelecommunications Line and

Cable WorkersPower System Electricians

Electrical Power Line and Cable WorkersLA

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MAR

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Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkElectricians assemble, install, test,and repair electrical wiring, fixtures,and control devices in buildings andother structures. They interpretdrawings and electrical code specifi-cations to decide wiring layouts fornew or existing installations. Theysplice and connect wire to fixturesand components to form circuits.Electricians also perform preventivemaintenance work.

SkillsThis work requires a good mechan-ical and electrical aptitude. A back-ground in mathematics and thesciences is helpful. You need basiccalculation and blueprint-readingskills. You must also be able tofollow instructions and be comfort-able working with tools. You needgood eyesight, colour vision, andhand-eye coordination.

Regulation RequirementsConstruction ElectricianThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsJobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonalchanges and general economicconditions. As a result, workers inthese occupations should beprepared for periods of unemploy-ment. Also, many work on a projectbasis and can expect periods ofunemployment throughout the year.The wage rate for apprentices isusually a percentage of the jour-neyperson rate, increasing oncompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program.

Electrician is a Red Seal trade.Those who pass the certificationexam will receive the Red Sealendorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Employment opportunities aretied mainly to new buildingconstruction and renovation activity.Although residential development isexpected to decline, the renovationmarket and non-residential sectorshould remain stable. This is a largeoccupation and many replacementpositions occur as workers retire orleave their position. Work is oftenseasonal and tied to majorcontracts, so periods of unemploy-ment are common. Workers areoften required to be mobile, espe-cially those with less experience,and some spend part of their yearin other regions of Canada.

The stable demand should beoffset by an ample supply of newentrants and existing workers.Employment opportunities are best for experienced, certified journeypersons. Many electriciansare self-employed and operate asmall business. This is a compulsorycertified trade in Nova Scotia.

Typical JobsConstruction ElectricianElectrical Wirer, ConstructionElectrical Fixture InstallerHouse Wirer


Trades and RelatedIndustrial ElectriciansPower System ElectriciansOil Burner, Electrical, and Other

Mechanics

Electricians

Outlook

Fair

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Outlook

Fair

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Gas Fitters

Nature of the WorkGas fitters install, inspect, repair,and maintain gas lines and gasequipment such as meters, regula-tors, heating units, and appliancesin residential, commercial, andindustrial establishments.

They study drawings and specifi-cations to prepare for installation,measure and mark reference pointsfor installation of gas lines andequipment, and test and adjustcontrol mechanisms. They alsocheck pipes and piping connectionsfor gas leaks, attend to gas escapecalls, and assist in the investigationof gas fires and explosions. Gasfitters can also prepare reports andadvise on standards, safety features,and the maintenance of gas unitsand systems.

SkillsThis work requires a methodicalapproach, mechanical aptitude, andan ability to plan ahead. You mustbe agile, coordinated, and capableof working in cramped andawkward conditions. You must havepatience and the ability to followinstructions. You should also be ableto co-operate and work well withothers on large projects.

Regulation RequirementsGas FitterNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Fuel Safety Technician CertificateThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Gas Technician licenceThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.


The number of persons workingstrictly as gas fitters is not large, as many fall into the occupations of plumbers and pipe fitters havingacquired the necessary licensingrequirements. This also makes themmore versatile in the job market, as they can work as gas fitters incombination with their other trades.There has been an expansion of gas as a residential/commercial fuel in the Halifax area and somecompanies indicate there can bedifficulties finding certified gasfitters at points in the year.However, there is still uncertaintyaround how popular gas willbecome as a fuel of choice, as itdepends on its price and availability,and so the long-term demand forgas fitters is not certain.

Work can be inconsistent andpart-year, so mobility is oftenrequired during slow times andunemployed is not uncommon.There are generally few opportuni-ties outside the Halifax area for gas fitters.

Typical JobsGas ServicerGas FitterGas Fitter ApprenticeGas Customer Servicer

Related OccupationsPlumbersSteamfitters, Pipefitters, and

Sprinkler System InstallersContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related



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Fair

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Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanics

Nature of the WorkHeavy duty equipment mechanicsrepair, overhaul, and maintainmobile heavy duty equipment usedin construction, forestry, mining,material handling, landscaping, landclearing, and farming. They checkheavy construction equipment suchas bulldozers, cranes, and gradersfor proper performance.

They inspect the equipment forfaults and malfunctions; diagnosefor faults and estimate the extent of repair; adjust, repair, or replacedefective parts; and perform routinemaintenance work on equipment.

SkillsTo work in this occupation, youshould have an interest in elec-tronics and mechanical operations. A background in mathematics andthe sciences is helpful. You must beable to co-operate with others andperform routine tasks. You needagility, physical strength, and hand-eye coordination. You must alsohave good vision and hearing andan inclination to work with tools.

Regulation RequirementsAgricultural Equipment TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Heavy Duty Equipment TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsThe skills learned in this trade aretransferable to other motive powertrades.

The wage rate for apprentices is usually a percentage of the jour-neyperson rate, increasing uponcompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program.

Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanicis a Red Seal trade. Those who passthe certification exam will receivethe Red Seal endorsement (allowingfor interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Heavy duty mechanics work in a variety of industries includingconstruction, transportation, ware-housing, mining, manufacturing,public works, etc. This meansdemand is steadier and less suscep-tible to fluctuations in one particularindustry than many other trades.While the work is not highlyseasonal, demand can be greater at certain times of the year andperiods of unemployment can occur.Employment should remain stableover the coming five years and jobopportunities will arise mainlythrough attrition and retirements.There continues to be significantdemand for this occupation in otherareas of the country, particularlyAlberta.

Opportunities are best for thosewith more experience and jour-neyperson status. Self-employmentcan also be a viable option forsomeone with the right skills. Some employers experience difficulty in finding qualifiedworkers to fill vacancies. Heavyduty equipment mechanics arerequired to learn and adapt tochanges in technology.

Typical JobsHeavy Mobile Mining Equipment

MechanicHeavy-Duty Equipment MechanicConstruction Equipment MechanicDiesel MechanicTractor Mechanic

Related OccupationsMotor Vehicle MechanicConstruction Millwrights and

Industrial MechanicsContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related


Nature of the WorkHeavy equipment operators operateheavy equipment used in theconstruction and maintenance ofroads, bridges, airports, gas and oilpipelines, tunnels, and buildings. Public Works maintenanceequipment operators maintainstreets, highways, and sewersystems, or operate garbage trucksto remove refuse. They must alsoconduct pre-operational checks onequipment and clean, lubricate, andrefill equipment.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudewould be helpful. You must also beable to take direction and carry outinstructions given by supervisors.


Other ConsiderationsWork in these occupations tends to be seasonal, with employmentusually peaking in the summermonths and declining during thewinter months.


Heavy equipment operators are employed by constructioncompanies, heavy equipmentcontractors, public works depart-ments, and pipeline, logging, andcargo handling companies. Theoverall strength of the economy and the ability of large employersto acquire contracts influence thisoccupation. Being employed acrossa range of industries is beneficial to the occupation; if one industry is experiencing difficulties, heavyequipment operators may still be in demand in other areas.

This is a large labour pool that is growing older. Although employ-ment is projected to decline overthe coming five years, a largenumber of opportunities should stillarise through retirements. Whilefulltime, year-round employmentcan be found in some industries, it is less common. Operators inconstruction, particularly, may needto be mobile to remain steadilyemployed. Supply of labour hasbeen affected by operators workingparts of the year on projects inother parts of Canada; so some employers have expressed difficul-ties in filling positions during peaksperiods.

Typical JobsBackhoe OperatorBulldozer OperatorLoader OperatorExcavator OperatorSnow Removal Equipment Operator

Related OccupationsCrane OperatorsContractors and Supervisors, Trades

and RelatedTruck Drivers

Heavy Equipment OperatorsLA

BOUR

MAR

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Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkIndustrial electricians install,examine, replace, or repair electricalwiring, receptacles, switch boxes,conduits, and other electricalequipment. They maintain, repair,test, and install electrical motors,generators, industrial storagebatteries, and hydraulic andpneumatic electrical controlsystems. Electricians in thesesettings conduct preventive maintenance programs and keepmaintenance records.

SkillsThis work requires mechanical andelectrical aptitude. A background inmathematics and the sciences canbe useful. You need basic calcula-tion and blueprint-reading skills. Youmust also be able to follow instruc-tions and be comfortable workingwith tools. You need good eyesight,colour vision, and hand-eye coordination.

Regulation RequirementsIndustrial ElectricianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Mine ElectricianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsThe wage rate for apprentices isusually a percentage of the jour-neyperson rate, increasing uponcompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program.

Industrial Electrician is a Red Seal trade. Those who pass thecertification exam will receive theRed Seal endorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Industrial electricians are widelyemployed across manufacturing(e.g., shipbuilding) and other industries including warehousing,construction and public administra-tion (national defence). Recentshutdowns and closures in manufac-turing have resulted in reduceddemand for this trade, althoughmuch of this capacity is expected to return as the economy recovers.A high, persistent Canadian dollar(impacting exports) and foreigncompetition are expected tocontinue to challenge Nova Scotia’smanufacturing sector over the long-term.

The introduction of new tech-nologies such as fibre optics andcomputer-aided manufacturing haschanged the work of industrial elec-tricians. There is now more overlapamong skills required by industrialelectricians and those in millwright,instrumentation, and electrical andelectronics engineering occupations.It is anticipated that retirements willbe the primary factor contributing toemployment opportunities in thecoming years.

Typical JobsPlant ElectricianMine ElectricianMarine ElectricianIndustrial Electrician

Related OccupationsElectriciansContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and RelatedPower System Electricians

Industrial Electricians

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkLongshore workers and materialshandlers transfer cargo throughoutthe dock areas and onto and offships and other vessels. They handle, move, load, andunload materials by hand or byusing a variety of material-handlingequipment. They operate industrialtrucks, tractors, and winches, andalso use equipment to transfer bulkmaterials. They perform other activi-ties such as lashing and shoringcargo aboard ships, opening andclosing hatches, and cleaning holdsof ships. In addition, they might berequired to count, weigh, sort, pack,and unpack cargo.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould have good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and a mechanical aptitudewould be helpful. You must be ableto take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.



This outlook is based heavily on the conditions and outlook formaterial handlers. Whereas,employment opportunities forlongshore workers are expected tobe limited over the coming years.While Halifax is a busy port, cargovolumes have been down in recentyears, which has resulted in fewerwork hours. Modern technology andnew procedures for loading goodshas resulted in the need for fewerlongshore workers in past years.Also, there appears to be an amplesupply of longshore workers tomeet demand. This is not a largeoccupation, with a workforce ofapproximately 500-600, much ofwhich is based in Halifax. Someopenings may arise through retire-ments, but competition will likelybe strong.

There will be numerous employ-ment opportunities for materialhandlers over the coming years,despite the increased use of tech-nology for loading. This is mainlydue to high turnover and lowwages. Employment is spread across industries and regions of the province, making the occupationaccessible and relatively stable.Material handlers is a large occupation with a workforce ofapproximately 4,400.

Typical JobsStevedoreRailway Car LoaderLumber Piler, Building SuppliesCoal HandlerFurniture MoverForklift Truck Operator

Related OccupationsTransport Equipment Operators

and Ramp AttendantsCrane OperatorsHeavy Equipment OperatorsContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related

Longshore Workers and Materials HandlersLA

BOUR

MAR

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Outlook

Good

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Nature of the WorkPeople in these occupations inspect,maintain, assemble, and buildindustrial machinery. They trou-bleshoot mechanical systems,recommend equipment changes or modifications, evaluate newequipment, and carry out preven-tive maintenance programs.

SkillsYou should have an interest in electronics and mechanical opera-tions. A background in mathematicsand the sciences is useful. You mustbe able to co-operate with othersand perform routine tasks. You needagility, physical strength, and hand-eye coordination. You must alsohave good vision and hearing andan inclination to work with tools.



Machine fitters is a relativelysmall occupational group in NovaScotia and so vacancies are notnumerous; however, it is expectedto grow over the next five years.Employment conditions are tied tothe strength of the economy, whichgenerates contracts for industrialmachinery and transportationequipment. Industries such asaerospace and defence and ship-building are expected provideopportunities for fitters in thecoming years.

Trade certificates as well asseveral years of experience aregenerally required to perform thework. There are not a large numberof employers of this occupation inthe province, so interested individ-uals may benefit from establishingcontacts. The term “fitter” maysometimes be heard to refer todifferent occupations, such asAircraft Assemblers (NOC 9481).

Typical JobsAircraft Engine FitterAssembly FitterMachine FitterMachine Tool BuilderMachine Tool Builder/Integrator

Related OccupationsWeldersAssemblers and Inspectors, Electrical

Appliance and Industrial MotorsAircraft Assemblers and Aircraft

Assembly InspectorsMechanical Assemblers and

Inspectors

Machine Fitters

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkMachinists set up and operate avariety of machine tools to cut orgrind metal and similar materialsinto parts or products with precisedimensions. They read and interpretblueprints, charts, and tables, orstudy sample parts to determinethe machine operation to beperformed; compute dimensionsand tolerances; measure workpieces; and fit and assemblemachine parts using hand andpower tools. Machinists in largemanufacturing facilities, and increas-ingly in smaller shops, usecomputer-controlled metal-cuttingsystems, such as CNC machinetools.

Tool and die makers manufactureand repair custom tools, dies,fixtures, and other devices. Theyread and interpret specifications,compute dimensions and tolerances,fit and assemble parts, operate a variety of machine tools, and testand inspect completed devices.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldhave an interest in machines,precision techniques, and processes.You need good hand-eye coordina-tion and agility. You should becomfortable working with tools andable to read mechanical drawings.You must have the ability to worksystematically, think analytically,and perform basic mathematicalcalculations. Employees inautomated shops must be comfort-able using computer equipment.

Regulation RequirementsMachinistNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Tool & Dye MakerNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsTo maintain employment, workerswill have to keep abreast ofchanging technology. In particular,the use of sophisticated computer-controlled equipment has trans-formed the work of machinists andwill continue to do so.

The wage rate for apprentices is usually a percentage of the journeyperson rate, increasing oncompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program.

Machinist and Tool and Die Makerare Red Seal trades. Those who passthe certification exam will receivethe Red Seal endorsement (allowingfor interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Machinists are employed byautomotive parts, shipbuilders,aircraft and other metal productsmanufacturing companies and bymachine shops. The work ofmachinists continues to be trans-formed by the increasing use ofsophisticated numerical controlmachine tools, autoloaders, andhigh speed machining. Tool and die makers are a very small occupa-tional group in Nova Scotia andopportunities for employment willbe fewer than for machinists.

The recent economic recessionhurt Nova Scotia’s manufacturing

sector, resulting in layoffs andclosures. The sector should reboundover the next couple of years andemployment conditions willimprove. Experienced machinists,especially those with CNC certifica-tion, will have less difficulty findingemployment over the recoveryperiod. The workforce is expected togrow modestly, while opportunitieswill also arise through attrition.Demand from other provinces likeAlberta has drawn many freshlytrained machinists away from theprovince, improving job prospectsfor those remaining.

Typical JobsAutomotive MachinistDie FinisherMould MakerMachining Inspector




Machinists, Tool and Die Makers, and Tooling Inspectors

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkThese people install and serviceelectrical equipment such as oil,coal, and wood burners; appliancessuch as televisions and VCRs;electric motors and transformers;and motor scooters, motorcycles,and snowmobiles. They cut andsolder wires, replace defectiveparts, analyse faults with test instru-ments, and make adjustments andreplacements using a variety ofhand and power tools and special-ized equipment. They calculateestimates of repair cost and advisecustomers on condition ofequipment and work to beperformed.

SkillsThis work requires an understandingof the principles of electricity and a mechanical aptitude. You shouldbe able to follow instructions andperform detailed work. A back-ground in mathematics and thesciences is helpful. You should alsohave physical strength, stamina, andthe ability to work at heights.

Regulation RequirementsOil Burner MechanicThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Appliance Service TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Electric Motor System TechnicianNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Motorcycle MechanicNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsWorkers might be self-employedand provide services as needed to their clients. Therefore, earningscan vary throughout the year anddepend upon a person’s ability toattract and retain customers.

Many of the occupations in thisgroup are Red Seal trades. Thosewho pass the certification exam willreceive the Red Seal endorsement(allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


This is a medium-sized occupa-tional group, employed acrossindustries such as retail/wholesaletrade, maintenance and repairservices, construction, and publicadministration. Advances in tech-nology have made such items aselectric appliances, heating systems,electrical equipment and trans-formers, and small engines morereliable, thus reducing maintenanceneeds. Also, the increasing afford-ability of many of these items hasled to consumers replacing malfunc-tioning machinery and equipmentrather than repairing it.

The largest occupation in thisgrouping is oil and solid fuelheating mechanics. Factors such asinsurance regulations and concernsover energy efficiency haveincreased the public’s demand forthis occupation. Prospects are betterfor those heating system mechanicswith experience, especially thosecross-trained in other heating technologies (wood, gas, HVAC).

Self-employment is an option formany of the mechanics occupationsin this grouping. Retirements areexpected to contribute to anaverage number of job openings in the coming years.

Typical JobsOil Burner MechanicMotorcycle MechanicSmall Engine RepairerElectrical MechanicAppliance Service Technician



Contractors and Supervisors, Tradesand Related Industrial Electricians

Refrigeration and Air ConditioningMechanics

Oil Burner, Electrical, and Other Mechanics

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkRoofers install and repair flat roofs,and they install shingles and roofingtiles on sloped roofs. Glaziers installglass windows in buildings andvehicles and decorative glass infurniture and other products. Insula-tors insulate pipes, walls, floors,ceilings, and other structures. Floorcovering installers install carpet,wood, linoleum, vinyl, and otherresilient floor coverings in varioustypes of buildings. Painters anddecorators apply paint, varnish,wallpaper, and other finishes.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldhave physical stamina, agility, andcoordination, and be capable ofclimbing, reaching, crouching, andhandling heavy materials. Whilemost of the work is done indoors,you must be willing to workoutdoors and at heights. You mustbe able to perform basic mathemat-ical calculations and read blueprintsand drafting specifications.

Regulation RequirementsRooferNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

GlazierNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Insulator (Heat & Frost)Nova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Painter and DecoratorNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Floorcovering InstallerNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsJobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonalchanges and general economicconditions, and many are on a project basis. As a result, workersin these occupations should beprepared for periods of unemploy-ment. The physical demands of thework might make it difficult forpeople to stay in these jobs for a long time.

Floor Covering Installers, Glaziers,Insulators (heat and frost), andRoofer are Red Seal trades. Thosewho pass the certification exam will receive the Red Seal endorse-ment (allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


Demand for these occupations is tied to new building constructionand renovation activity in theprovince. Although housingconstruction is expected to declineover the coming years, renovationactivity and non-residential buildingis expected to remain stable.Seasonality does affect some thesetrades and so periods of unemploy-ment are common.

Employers often report difficultyin finding experienced roofers andshinglers, given the work can bedriven by short projects andturnover is high.

This is a large occupational groupwith a relatively young workforce,so retirements are not expected to contribute significantly to jobopenings. Experienced and certifiedworkers will have the best chanceof finding longer-term work.

Typical JobsPainter and DecoratorFloor Covering InstallerGlazierHouse PainterHeat and Frost Insulator


Trades and Related

Painters, Roofers, and Other Construction Trades

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkPower systems operators monitorand operate switchboards andrelated equipment in electricalcontrol centres to control the distri-bution of electrical power in trans-mission networks.

Power station operators operatereactors, turbines, boilers, genera-tors, and other related equipment inelectrical generating stations andsubstations. They coordinate,schedule, and direct generatingstation and substation power loadsand line voltages; monitor andvisually inspect station instruments,meters, and alarms; issue work andtest permits to maintenancepersonnel; and maintain records.

SkillsThis work requires accuracy,attention to detail, good mechanicalaptitude, and mathematical ability.You must be alert, reliable, andcapable of working with minimalsupervision. You need verbalcommunication, decision-making,and problem-solving skills as wellas the ability to follow instructions.You should be agile, coordinated,and in good physical condition.


Other ConsiderationsConstruction of new power genera-tion facilities over the next fewyears is unlikely, and any new jobgrowth is likely to be limited.


Power system and power stationoperators are employed by electricpower utilities, such as Nova ScotiaPower, and by some large manufac-turing facilities. There are opportuni-ties for those with industryexperience, and having a 1st or 2ndclass ticket. Power station operatorsgenerally require experience as ahigher level stationary engineer.Power systems operators generallyrequire experience inelectrical/electronics occupations.

This is not a large occupationalgroup, with approximately 150workers across the province.Competition is relatively strong forthe few openings and retirementsare not expected to contributesignificantly to job openings.

Typical JobsPower DispatcherPower Plant OperatorNuclear Reactor OperatorGenerating Station OperatorDistribution Control Operator



Stationary and Power Engineers

Power Station and Power Systems Operators

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkPublic works labourers maintainsidewalks, streets, roads, and publicareas. Railway labourers assist trackmaintenance workers and railwayyard workers. Other helpers workon delivery trucks and moving vans.

SkillsYou need good health, physicalstamina, and strength. Agility, coor-dination, and mechanical aptitudewould be helpful. You must be ableto take direction and carry outinstructions given by a supervisor.


Other ConsiderationsMost people in these occupationswork full-time, but often for onlypart of the year.


Employment conditions for publicworks and maintenance workers is expected to remain stable overthe coming years, based on thenecessity maintain the delivery of public goods/services such aswaste removal, street cleaning andsidewalk maintenance. However,municipal, provincial, and federalgovernment public works budgetswill likely be constrained over thecoming 3 to 5 years (in response to significant economic stimulusspending through the recession).Most of the opportunities will arisethrough turnover or retirements, and work is often seasonal.

Opportunities for railway andmotor transport labourers will belimited mainly due to the small sizeof this occupation and low industrygrowth outlook.

Typical JobsRailway Yard WorkerGarbage CollectorMover Helper

Related OccupationsLabourers in Primary IndustryTransport Equipment Operators

and Ramp AttendantsLongshore Workers and Materials

HandlersHeavy Equipment OperatorsConstruction and Other Trades

Helpers and Labourers

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Fair

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Nature of the WorkIndustrial and power system electri-cians install, examine, replace, orrepair electrical wiring, receptacles,switch boxes, conduits, trans-formers, generators, voltage regula-tors, and other electrical equipment.They maintain, repair, test, andinstall electric motors, generators,industrial storage batteries, andhydraulic and pneumatic electricalcontrol systems. Electricians in these settings conduct preventivemaintenance programs and keepmaintenance records.

SkillsThis work requires good mechanicaland electrical aptitude. You shouldcompetent in mathematics andsciences. You need basic calculationand blueprint-reading skills. You

must be able to follow instructionsand be comfortable working withtools. You must have good eyesight,colour vision, and hand-eye coordination.




This is a small occupation,employing around 100 workers, and so openings infrequent andusually occur through attrition. NovaScotia Power (NSP), the companyresponsible for over 97% of thegeneration, transmission, and distribution of electrical power toNova Scotians, is the main employerof this occupation.

There is an ongoing need torepair and upgrade power systeminfrastructure, as well as work onnew projects, which generatesstable demand for these skills.However, advancing technology has

resulted in more electrical technolo-gists and technicians (NOC 2241)working in power plants in recentyears. Some growth is expected in the occupation to support theintegration of renewable energysources, such as wind, as they areconnected to the power grid.

Typical JobsPower Station ElectricianPower System Electrician

Related OccupationsElectriciansContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and RelatedElectrical Power Line and Cable

WorkersIndustrial ElectriciansOil Burner, Electrical and Other

Mechanics

Power System Electricians

Outlook

Fair

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Public Works, Railway, and Motor Transport Labourers



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Nature of the WorkRefrigeration and air conditioningmechanics install and maintain airconditioning, refrigeration, andcombined heating/cooling systemsin houses, businesses, and industry.

SkillsThis work requires an understandingof the principles of electricity and a mechanical aptitude. You shouldbe able to follow instructions andperform detailed work. A back-ground in mathematics and thesciences is useful. You should alsohave physical strength, stamina, andthe ability to work at heights.

Regulation RequirementsRefrigeration & Air ConditioningMechanicThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsWorkers may be self-employed andprovide services as needed to theirclients. Therefore, earnings can varythroughout the year and dependupon a person’s ability to attractand retain customers.

Refrigeration and Air ConditioningMechanic is a Red Seal trade. Thosewho pass the certification exam willreceive the Red Seal endorsement(allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


The renovation and constructionof commercial, institutional andindustrial buildings increasinglyincorporates sophisticated, comput-erized climate-control systems. Thismeans highly-skilled refrigerationand air conditioning mechanics(HVAC technicians) are required toinstall and maintain these systems.A concern with air quality andenergy efficiency in offices andpublic buildings also createsdemand for these occupations.

This occupational group is moder-ately affected by seasonality, assome employers hire additional(non-core) staff over the warmermonths and so unemployment iscommon. Opportunities are best forexperienced, certified mechanics;those with less experience mayneed to be mobile to find work.Opportunities for self-employmentmay exist. Retirements shouldgenerate a modest number ofopenings over the next severalyears.

Typical JobsCentral Air Conditioning MechanicHeating and Cooling MechanicTransport Refrigeration Mechanic


Trades and RelatedOil Burner, Electrical, and Other

Mechanics

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkThese workers install, repair, andmaintain parts in a variety ofsettings. For instance, they mightinstall and service interior andexterior prefabricated products suchas windows, doors, electrical appli-ances, water heaters, play struc-tures, fences, and septic systems.They might maintain and repairwaterworks equipment and facili-ties, inspect buildings and outsideareas for pest infestations and spraychemical treatments, or replaceautomotive mechanical parts.

These workers are required todetermine the type of repairneeded, provide estimates, andkeep records of work performed.

SkillsTo work in these occupations, youshould be in good physical conditionand comfortable working outdoorsand at varying heights. You willneed basic mathematical skills tomake accurate measurements. Youmust be able to follow instructionsand work well with others. Theability to read blueprints is an asset.

Regulation RequirementsPartspersonNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.


This occupational group capturesa wide range of functions related to installation and maintenance.Most individuals are employed bycompanies specializing in specificproduct installation, such as eave-stroughs or hot tubs. The employeroften provides the necessarytraining, although those with relatedexperience and training will bemost successful in finding work.

Demand for various automotiveinstallers (to perform tasks such asan oil change or tire installation)should remain steady, as vehicleswill continue to require ongoingmaintenance. Demand for residen-tial and commercial installers willbe supported by a steady renova-tion market, whereas the outlookfor new residential/commercialbuilding construction indicatesemployment declines over the next five years.

Typical JobsMuffler InstallerFire Equipment WorkerGas Maintenance WorkerSiding InstallerPest Controller

Related OccupationsMotor Vehicle MechanicsGas FittersContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related

Residential, Automotive, and Other Installers and RepairersLA

BOUR

MAR

KET

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkSheet metal workers fabricate,assemble, install, and repair sheetmetal products. They read drawingsand sketches; draft patterns; lay out,measure, and mark sheet metal;operate light metalworkingmachines and laser equipment; fit,join, shape, and form sheet metalparts; and inspect product quality.These workers often assist othertradespersons.

SkillsFor these occupations, you shouldhave physical stamina, agility, andcoordination, and be capable ofclimbing, reaching, crouching, andhandling heavy materials. Althoughmost of the work is done indoors,you must be willing to workoutdoors and at heights. You mustbe able to read blueprints anddrafting specifications and performbasic mathematical calculations.

Regulation RequirementsSheet Metal WorkerNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsJobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonalchanges and general economicconditions, and many jobs are on a project basis. As a result, workersin these occupations should expectperiods of unemploymentthroughout the year, with employ-ment peaking in the summermonths. The physical demands ofthis work might make it hard forpeople to stay in these jobs for a long time.

Technology is affecting the skilllevels required for this occupation.New materials and different instal-lation techniques and joiningmethods require an upgrading ofskills for some sheet metal workers.Also, the increased use of computer-controlled equipment is trans-forming the skills required.

Sheet Metal Worker is a Red Seal trade. Those who pass thecertification exam will receive theRed Seal endorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Employment for this occupationdepends to a large degree onconstruction activity, which isexpected to remain stable for non-residential building and infrastruc-ture projects over the coming years.Unlike many other building tradesworkers, sheet metal workers spenda lot of time on maintenanceprojects, which is a fairly stablemarket. Activity at the shipyardsshould provide steady employmentfor sheet metal workers as well.

Competition for qualified workersfrom employers in western Canadahas created some hiring challengesfor employers in Nova Scotia. Jour-neypersons and more experiencedworkers are periodically in greatdemand, especially with non-unionsmall companies involved withfabrication or heating/ventilationsystems. Periods of unemploymentare common and workers may beneed to be mobile to find work. An aging workforce will likelyaccount for most openings in thisoccupation.

Typical JobsSheet Metal FabricatorTinsmithSheet Metal Worker




BoilermakersStructural Metal and Platework

Fabricators and FittersIronworkers

Sheet Metal Workers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkPower engineers, also known asstationary engineers, operate andmaintain various types of stationaryengines and auxiliary equipment,such as boilers, turbines, generators,and compressors, to provide heat,ventilation, refrigeration, light, andpower for buildings and industrialplants. They monitor and inspectplant equipment and meters tomeasure temperature, pressure, andfuel flow to detect leaks or malfunc-tions. They also analyze and recordinstrument readings and equipmentmalfunctions; and clean andlubricate generators, turbines,pumps, and compressors.Skills

This work requires good mechan-ical aptitude and mathematicalability. You must be alert, reliable,and capable of working withminimal supervision. Verbal commu-nication, decision-making, andproblem-solving skills are needed,as well as the ability to followinstructions. You should be agile,coordinated, and in good physicalcondition.

Regulation RequirementsPower EngineerThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsPeople in these occupations areusually required to do shiftwork.The wage rate for apprentices isusually a percentage of the jour-neyperson rate, increasing uponcompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program. There is noRed Seal certification for stationaryengineers. The interprovincialstandard for stationary/powerengineers in Canada is that set outby the Standardization of PowerEngineers Examination Committee(SOPEEC). This committee is affili-ated with the Association of

Chief Inspectors (ACI). Examina-tions are prepared by the Coordi-nator of Examinations, who isappointed by ACI. Candidates whomeet the provincial requirementsand who pass the prescribed examinations are issued provincialcertification with a SOPEEC seal or have the word ‘standardized’printed on their certificate. ThisCertificate of Qualification isaccepted across Canada. Pleasecontact the Nova Scotia Departmentof Labour and Workforce Develop-ment for more information.


Individuals in this occupationwork across a number of settingsincluding manufacturing plants,utility facilities, hospitals and univer-sities. Employment demand is rela-tively stable, however, advances inautomated controls have increasedequipment efficiency and reducedthe demand somewhat. The supplyof local stationary engineers hasbeen affected in recent years by out migration to western Canada.

The employment prospects arebetter for operators with experienceand first consideration is often givento those with higher certifications.The majority of recent job postingsrequired a 2nd or 3rd class ticket.Retirements are expected to be a main contributor to job openingsin the coming years.

Typical JobsAuxiliary Plant OperatorBoiler OperatorSteam Plant OperatorStationary EngineerPower Engineer

Related OccupationsCivil, Mechanical, and IndustrialEngineering Technicians andTechnologistsPower Station and Power Systems

Operators

Stationary and Power Engineers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkAll workers in this occupationalgroup install, maintain, and repairpipelines and systems. They readblueprints and specifications;measure, cut, and thread pipes;operate hand and power tools; joinpipes using clamps, cement, orwelding equipment; and cutopenings in walls, floors, andceilings. They install support forpiping systems, connect pipingsystems to water mains and pumps,clean pipes, and test for leaks.

Sprinkler fitters work mainly onpressure pipeline systems used forextinguishing and preventing fires.Steamfitters and pipefitters workmainly on high- and low-pressurepiping systems used to conductliquids and gases for heating,cooling, and lubricating.

SkillsThis work requires a methodicalapproach, mechanical aptitude, andan ability to plan ahead. You mustbe agile, coordinated, and capableof working in cramped andawkward conditions. You needpatience and the ability to followinstructions. You should be able to co-operate and work well withothers on large projects.

Regulation RequirementsSprinkler System InstallerThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Steamfitter/PipefitterThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.


Steam/Pipefitter and SprinklerSystem Installer are Red Seal trades.Those who pass the certificationexam will receive the Red Sealendorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Activity in non-residentialconstruction and large-scale manu-facturing generate employment forthis occupation. Investment isexpected to remain stable in non-residential building over the comingyears and the renovations marketwill generate a steady amount ofwork. The Department of NationalDefence and Irving Shipyards willalso require pipefitters, givenexpected attrition and the numberof awarded contracts to build andrepair vessels.

Employers indicate shortages canoccur in this occupation periodicallyand that those with extensive skillsand experience can be difficult tofind. Workers often experienceperiods of unemployment outside of peak activity. Many local trades-people work part of the year onprojects in other parts of Canada,most notably Alberta.

The workforce is older and shouldsee some retirements in the comingyears.

Typical JobsSprinkler System FitterSprinkler System InstallerSteamfitterMarine Pipefitter

Related OccupationsPlumbersGas FittersContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related

Steamfitters, Pipefitters, and Sprinkler System Installers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkPlaters and structural metal fabrica-tors make metal parts for storagetanks, ships, scaffolding, and otherstructures made from steel plates,tubes, beams, or similar materials.They lay out patterns on heavymetal according to specifications;assemble and fit metal plates toform complete units using tackwelding, bolting, or other methods;set up and operate metalworkingmachines, including computernumerical control equipment; andconstruct patterns and templates as guides for layouts.

SkillsThis work requires mechanicalaptitude. You must be resourcefuland able to make decisions. Youneed good form perception, physicalstrength, coordination, and agility.Anyone interested in the structuralmetal fabricating trade should nothave fear of heights and should beable to move quickly.

Regulation RequirementsMetal Fabricator (Fitter)Nova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

Marine FitterNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.


Metal Fabricator is a Red Seal trade. Those who pass thecertification exam will receive theRed Seal endorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) on theircertificate of qualification.


Structural metal and plateworkfabricators and fitters are employedin structural steel, boiler, andplatework fabrication plants and by heavy machinery manufacturingand shipbuilding companies.Employment for this occupation isdriven by construction and majorproject activity, although much ofthe work takes place in a manufac-turing setting. The outlook for non-residential building and infrastructure development is stablein the coming years; shipbuildingshould also provide opportunitiesfor employment. Modest growth isexpected in the occupation over thenext 5 years, but the majority ofopportunities will arise throughretirements.

Some employers have expresseddifficulty finding experienced,certified metal fabricators overrecent years, especially whenrequired on short notice. However,work can be inconsistent andworkers often experience periods of unemployment. Some individualschoose to spend part of their yearworking in other parts of Canada. As in many trades, opportunities are much better for certified, experienced workers. Some structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters may also becertified as skilled welders.

Typical JobsPlatework FitterMarine FitterMetal FabricatorSteel FabricatorShipfitter


Trades and RelatedBoilermakersIronworkers

Structural Metal and Platework Fabricators and Fitters

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkTelecommunications installation andrepair workers install, arrange,remove, and maintain telephoneequipment. They test installedequipment and repair or replacedefective and damaged telephonewire and associated equipment. Thiswork requires operating computer-ized testing systems to conductservice tests on customer lines andequipment, identifying serviceproblems, arranging for repair,working with fibre optics media,and completing reports of servicecalls. Climbing and working onpoles, ladders, or other supportstructures is part of the job.

SkillsThis work requires good mechanicaland electrical aptitude. You shouldhave a background in mathematicsand the sciences. Accuracy and a keen eye for detail are important.You need good eyesight, colourvision, and hand-eye coordination.


Other ConsiderationsThe amount of data that can becarried by communications linesthrough both analog data anddigital signals has increased dramat-ically. Advances in telecommunica-tions and multi-media technologyand the ways in which they aredelivered to customers might affectthe type of work performed and jobprospects in these occupations.


The telecommunications industryis rapidly changing. Advances inwireless communication may affectfuture demand for this occupation,as increased use of wireless internetand phone will lessen demands forwired services. The main employersof this occupational group in NovaScotia are the telecommunicationscompanies Aliant and Eastlink. A $74.4 million governmentsponsored initiative to expand high-speed internet access across NovaScotia created demand for this occu-pation in recent years, but much ofthis work is now completed. Retire-ments will be the main contributingfactor to job openings for this occu-pational group in coming years, butnot a large number of openings areexpected.

Workers in this occupation maydeal with new (e.g., wireless, cell,satellite) and old technologies.There may be room for mobility for those with the right skill setsbetween this and similar occupa-tions. Therefore, workers may bewell advised to have a solid educa-tional background in a relatedtraining path, such as electrical/electronics to maximize theiremployment potential.

Typical JobsTelecommunications Service TestersCellular Telephone TechnicianTelecommunications Equipment

TechnicianTelephone Line Installer


Engineering TechniciansContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and RelatedTelecommunications Line and

Cable Workers

Telecommunications Installation and Repair Workers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkTelecommunications line and cableworkers install, remove, maintain,and repair aerial and undergroundtelephone and other telecommuni-cation transmission and distributionlines, cables, and associatedhardware. They splice and repairvarious types of wiring and cablesusing splicing tools and related elec-trical equipment and tools. Theseworkers inspect and test overheadand underground lines and cables.To do this they must climb laddersor operate hydraulic buckets whenworking on poles and towers, orwork in confined spaces such astrenches and tunnels.

SkillsThis work requires accuracy, caution,and attention to detail. You must beable to work to precise specifica-tions and levels of safety wheninstalling and repairing cables. Youneed physical stamina, good hand-eye coordination, and electricalaptitude. You should also have a background in mathematics andsciences.

Regulation RequirementsCommunications Cabling SpecialistThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.


Advances in telecommunications,such as fibre optics, and the deregu-lation of the telecommunicationsindustry mean that there are now a wider variety of available servicesand a wider variety of employersfor this occupational group.Continued advances in wirelesstechnologies may affect futuredemand for this occupation, asincreased use of wireless internetand phone will lessen demands forwired services. The main employersof this occupational group in NovaScotia are the telecommunicationscompanies Aliant and Eastlink.

Vacancies are currently stilloccurring on a fairly regular basis,however, with subcontractors espe-cially. Anticipated retirements in thecoming years are expected to bethe main contributor to jobopenings.

Typical JobsCommunications Cabling SpecialistTelecommunications Cable InstallerTelecommunications Line InstallerTelephone Line Technician


Trades and RelatedElectrical Power Line and Cable

WorkersTelecommunications Installation

and Repair WorkersCable Television Service and

Maintenance Technicians

Telecommunications Line and Cable Workers

Outlook

Fair

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Nature of the WorkWelders fabricate and repair metalparts and structures. They cut andjoin metal, interpret blueprints, andoperate metal shaping machinesand welding, flame-cutting, brazing,and soldering equipment.

These workers might specialize in certain types of welding, such ascustom fabrication, ship building, or machinery and equipment repair.

Welders might have to work incramped, awkward places. Soldermachine operators operate previ-ously set up brazing or solderingmachines to bond metal parts or to fill holes and seams of metalarticles with solder.

SkillsFor this occupation, you shouldenjoy working with your hands. Youneed good hand-eye coordination,physical strength, and stamina. Youmust also be cautious, alert, andable to concentrate over longperiods of time. An ability toperform mathematical functions ishelpful. In most cases, you mustalso be able to co-operate and coordinate your work with others.

Regulation RequirementsWelderNova Scotia endorses standards forthis occupation, or it is a designatedtrade. Certification is available andattests that the holder has metprovincial standards for the occupation. Certification may berequired by employers, however, a certificate is not required to workin this occupation.

High Pressure WelderThis occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia. Certification attests that the holder has met provincialrequirements for the occupation. A certificate is required to work in this occupation.

Other ConsiderationsTechnology has affected these occu-pations. The use of computerizedequipment has tended to make thework of welders physically lessstressful and more precise. Becauseof more stringent laws and regula-tions, welders are increasinglyexpected to document and maintainrecords. This places more responsi-bility on supervisors, quality controlpersonnel, and those who shapeand assemble components.

Shift work is common in thesetrades. The wage rate for appren-tices is usually a percentage of thejourneyperson rate, increasing oncompletion of each stage of theapprenticeship program.

Welder is a Red Seal trade. Thosewho pass the certification exam willreceive the Red Seal endorsement(allowing for interprovincialmobility) on their certificate of qualification.


Opportunities for this occupationare tied to general economic condi-tions, large manufacturing contracts(as expected in Shipbuilding), andlarge scale industrial projects (suchas Deep Panuke). The nature of theindustry requires welders to bemobile as contracts arise acrossregions of the province. Significantindustrial activity in other provinceslike Alberta has attracted manyrecently trained trades workersincluding welders.

Opportunities are often quitegood for experienced, certifiedwelders with skills in a variety ofadvanced technological applications.Welding has seen advances in tech-nology which affects demand incertain types of welding whererobotics and computer controls can be used, but this is generallyconfined to major manufacturing.Less skilled welders will have muchmore difficulty, and the ability toremain mobile during slow times isan asset. Periods of unemploymentare common for welders. This is a large occupational group, sopositions often arise through workerturnover and retirements.

Typical JobsPrecision WelderSpot WelderStructural Steel WelderSolder Machine OperatorAircraft Welder

Related OccupationsCommercial DiversContractors and Supervisors,

Trades and Related

Welders

Outlook

Fair

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Documents

Careers in Energy Handbookenergy.novascotia.ca/.../2011-2013-Careers-in-Energy-Handbook.pdf · Careers in Energy Handbook . ... Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers 101 Industrial