Mobile Crane Operator
Mobile Crane
Operator
- How to use rigging hardware and tools in the workplace
- How to interpret load charts and drawings
- How to assemble, operate, and disassemble a crane
- How to conduct a site assessment and safely position a crane
- How to operate a mobile crane to lift 80 tonnes and over
Mobile Crane Operators are precise, careful tradespeople who use calculations to safely move and lift the essential items and resources needed to build and repair a wide range of structures.
As a Mobile Crane Operator, you’ll make heavy lifting look easy as you hoist 80 tonnes and more of materials to and from building sites with confidence.
You’ll work largely at construction sites, railway, shipping yards or resource industry yards, managing everything to do with crane work including planning the lift, setting up the crane, and taking the crane down again when you’re done.
BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available at www.bccranesafety.ca
Program Updates
August 2024: OPSN 2024 017 (Changes to practical assessment prerequisites)
May 2024: For information regarding transition, please see the Program Update and Transition Plan
April 2024: OPSN 2024 012 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective September 1, 2024)
April 2022: OPSN 2022 007 (New Credit for Prior Learning in the challenge pathway)
June 2021: OPSN 2021 007 (Minimum operating requirement clarifications)
Practical Assessment Information
To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification.
Program Information (2024) and Resources
Program Information (2024) and Resources
Effective September 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- April 2024: OPSN 2024 012 (Revised Program Outline, Profile, and SLEs effective September 1, 2024)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- April 2024: OPSN 2024 012 (Revised Program Outline, Profile, and SLEs effective September 1, 2024)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- March 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2012 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
- Red Seal Occupational Standard 2021
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: none
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Workplace safety
- Advanced driving
- Hand-eye coordination
- Radio and hand communication
- Critical thinking and time management
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Marine Service Technician
Marine Service
Technician
- How each specialized are of marine trades relates to the whole boat
- How to use industry specific terminology, tools, equipment & materials
- How to build, maintain, repair & refit boats
- How to select & install onboard systems
- How boat structure & system design affects performance
Marine Service Technicians are agile and versatile, often fulfilling the role of mechanic, welder and carpenter all on the same day. They work hard to make sure each vessel sets a smooth course.
As a Marine Service Technician, you’ll constantly put your flexible and persistent nature to the test, as you repair a range of components and systems such as propellers, sails, masts, engines, and navigational equipment.
Faced with a range of challenges, you’ll need to think fast and tackle complex problems on the spot. At the same time, you’re a top-notch fixer, who constantly rights the ship.
Program Updates
Please be advised that the Program Outline and Program Profile have been revised. The changes are effective Jan 1, 2018. Please see OPSN 2018 006 for details.
Program Information
Program Information
Marine Service Technician apprentices and individuals challenging the certification must successfully complete an Advanced Competency Assessment as a completion requirement of this program. Please contact Quadrant Marine Institute for more information and to arrange an assessment.
Certificate of Qualification Exam Information and Resources
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Note: Marine Service Technician apprentices and individuals challenging the certification must successfully complete an Advanced Competency Assessment as a completion requirement of this program. Please contact Quadrant Marine Institute for more information and to arrange an assessment.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Safe & professional work habits
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Troubleshooting & decision-making
- Applied knowledge of vessel design, structural materials, paint, coatings & onboard systems
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Marine Mechanical Technician
Marine Mechanical
Technician
- Critical thinking and troubleshooting
- Monitoring and quality control
- Use of specialized tools and equipment
- General marine maintenance
- Knowledge of marine systems
Marine Mechanical Technicians are the fixers who understand every aspect of how marine vessels work. They’re systematic professionals, who troubleshoot systems and ensure everything runs safely.
As a Marine Mechanical Technician, you’ll be responsible for fixing, repairing, installing and maintaining a wide range of marine systems—from boat engines to electrical systems, pumps, drive trains and more.
You’re an analytical individual, who enjoys working through a problem methodically. You’ll restore engines and systems to optimal levels, ensuring every vessel is in perfect working order.
Program Updates
September 2021: For information regarding transition, see the Program Update and Transition Plan.
August 2021: A new Program Outline and Program Profile will be implemented April 1, 2022. Please see OPSN 2021 008 for details
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2022
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- How to use tools, equipment and materials
- How to inspect and repair water, mechanical, and electrical systems
- How to service and install hydraulic systems
- How to perform metal fabrication and electrical work
- How to service engines, as well as drive, ignition, fuel and control systems
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Heavy Equipment
Operator
- How to run bulldozers, backhoes, loaders and graders
- How to run dredging and pile-driving equipment
- How to operate heavy paving equipment for building roads
- How to assess safety for yourself and site workers
- How to do pre-operational checks and clean, lubricate and refill equipment
Heavy Equipment Operators are coordinated and decisive experts, whose focus on safety make them a perfect fit to operate the essential machines that move earth and excavate resources.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you’re a careful and confident professional who is completely at home operating a wide range of machines including bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, excavators—and more.
On any day, you could also be excavating rock and ore at a mine, running dredging equipment to deepen waterways, or clearing brush and stumps for roads or new construction.
Note: Training Provider designation applications are not accepted at this time. For questions or support, please contact designation [at] skilledtradesbc.ca.
Program Updates
Please note that the Forestry equipment endorsements (Feller/Buncher, Wheel Skidder, Track Skidder, Dangle Head Processor, Grapple Yarder & Log Loader) are unavailable pending further consultation.
The Exam Breakdown for the Certificate of Qualification is available and shows the approximate percentage of weighting per General Area of Competency (GAC).
Completion Declaration Forms:
Program Information
Program Information
Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation Information and Resources
Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation Information and Resources
The Road Builder and Heavy Construction Foundation program is intended to serve as a pre-employment program for individuals who wish to enter the road building and heavy construction industry.
Foundation Profile
Describes the training that can be taken to learn more about the trade before becoming an apprentice
Foundation Outline
Guidelines for the delivery of pre-apprenticeship training at SkilledTradesBC Recognized Training Providers
Exam Breakdown
Shows the approximate percentage of weighting per General Area of Competency represented on the Foundation Program Road Builder & Heavy Equipment Exam.
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
- Coordination and monitoring
- Essential heavy equipment knowledge
- Job control and engineering basics
- Environmental awareness, protection and enhancement
- Operation of haul trucks, loaders, dozers, excavators, graders and other equipment
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Embalmer and Funeral Director
Embalmer and
Funeral Director
- How to plan and schedule funeral services
- How to preserve and prepare human remains
- How to coordinate burials and cremations
- How to speak to grieving families about funeral arrangements and survivor benefits
- How to manage funeral home operations and staff
Embalmer and Funeral Directors play a very important role in a major event in many people’s lives. They are able to take on a big responsibility while ensuring the care and compassion needed.
As an Embalmer and Funeral Director, you’ll draw on your strong attention to detail and precision to oversee the many details that go into the preparation of human remains and the many different types of funerals.
You’re a compassionate & expressive individual, who works well in a challenging situation, taking great care to follow instructions while finding ways to be expressive in your work.
No challenge process is currently available for this certification. This decision is currently under review. For further information please contact the BC Funeral Association on 1-250-592-3213 and at info [at] bcfunerals.com (info[at]bcfunerals[dot]com).
Program Update
- August 2024: Instructor requirements for this program were updated. Please see the Program Update for more details.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
- Communication and Coordination
- Funeral practices, law and service ethics
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Safety, sanitation and hygiene practice
- Embalming
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Embalmer
Embalmer
- How to identify and describe human anatomy
- How to identify and describe safety, sanitation and hygiene practices
- How to describe and practice embalming
- How to identify and describe funeral law
- How to employ strong communications skills
Embalmers are caring and attentive people. Their trustworthy nature make them a valuable resource in what is often a challenging time for families and friends.
As an Embalmer, you’ll take on a role that requires not just precision, but also allows for expression as you help to prepare or restore human remains.
You’ll be comfortable with large responsibility, as your work is a crucial part in an important and often very emotional time for others.
No challenge process is currently available for this certification. This decision is currently under review. For further information please contact the BC Funeral Association on 1-250-592-3213 and at info [at] bcfunerals.com (info[at]bcfunerals[dot]com).
Program Updates
- August 2024: Instructor requirements for this program were updated. Please see the Program Update for more details.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
- Communication
- Coordination
- Judgement and decision-making
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Embalming
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Tower Crane Operator
Tower Crane
Operator
- How to follow safe operation procedures
- How to identify various crane components
- How to install and inspect wire rope and rigging
- How to determine load and lifting capacity
- How to operate, transport and maintain a tower crane
Tower Crane Operators are calm, decisive and coordinated professionals who take on the challenge of lifting heavy loads to great heights while ensuring the safety of everyone around them.
As a Tower Crane Operator, you’ll enjoy taking on a challenging and satisfying role where you’re responsible for the safe movement of building materials and equipment.
You'll maintain focus on the task at hand. At the same time, you’ll be an expert in understanding the various procedures that go into a safe lift, including proper load and lifting capacities.
BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available at www.bccranesafety.ca
Program Updates
September 2024: For information regarding transition, please see the Program Update
August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)
August 2024: OPSN 2024 017 (Changes to practical assessment prerequisites)
June 2021: OPSN 2021 007 (Minimum operating requirement clarifications)
Information for BC CofQ Holders
If you already hold a Tower Crane Operator BC Certificate of Qualification (CofQ), your certification is still valid and no action is required. If you wish to earn a Red Seal Endorsement on your BC CofQ, you may do so by writing and passing the Tower Crane Operator Interprovincial Red Seal exam. View Forms.
Practical Assessment Information
To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- None
Information:
- National Occupational Analysis
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: none
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Coordination and focus
- Regulatory compliance procedures
- Safe work procedures
- Rigging and hoisting
- Crane operations and maintenance
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Transport Trailer Technician
Transport Trailer
Technician
- How to operate shop equipment including winches, cutting and welding equipment
- How to service and repair brake systems
- How to service hydraulic and electrical systems
- How to service frames, steering and suspension
- How to service HVAC systems and trailer components
Transport Trailer Technicians are mechanical and resourceful tradespeople who enjoy fixing, building and maintaining the wide range of commercial trailers.
As a Transport Trailer Technician, you’ll be comfortable working on high-value commercial trailers, taking charge to apply a systematic and analytical approach.
You’ll regularly repair, rebuild and maintain these trailers, identifying solutions and the tools you need. You’ll quickly work your way through the many systems ensuring that every trailer you work on is safe and ready to hit the road.
Program Updates
- December 2023: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)
- November 2023: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update.
- June 2023: OPSN 2023-008 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)
- April 2023: Program Update (Revised Target Implementation Date).
- OPSN Archives
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- January 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 NOA and 2022 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Troubleshooting
- Critical thinking
- Monitoring and quality assurance
- Power and hand tool use
- Trailer system repair and maintenance
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
Diesel Engine Mechanic
Diesel Engine
Mechanic
- How to use tools and shop equipment
- How to service and repair diesel engine systems
- How to service and repair brakes, frames, steering and suspension
- How to service and repair electrical systems and trailers
- How to service and repair air conditioning and accessories
Diesel Engine Mechanics are systematic and resourceful professionals who enjoy analyzing diesel systems and ensuring every item is properly assessed and fixed—getting vehicles back on the road.
As a Diesel Engine Mechanic, you’ll spend each day collaborating with team members and working with your hands as you inspect and repair vehicles.
You’ll enjoy mechanics and troubleshooting, which you’ll do a lot of as you not only handle routine repairs, but also interpret diagnostic testing and develop repair plans. You’ll also work on a wide range of vehicles, with no two issues ever the same.
Program Updates
December 2023: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)
November 2023: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update.
June 2023: OPSN 2023-008 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)
April 2023: Program Update (Revised Target Implementation Date).
2024 Program Information and Resources
2024 Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking
- Vehicle systems repair
- Equipment maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Systems monitoring
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
Boom Truck Operator (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)
Boom Truck Operator
(Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)
- How to conduct crane operations within safety guidelines
- How to employ proper rigging and lifting techniques
- How to calculate lifting methods
- How to transport and deliver a boom truck
- How to plan a site
Boom Truck Operators (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage) move and lift the essential items and resources needed to build and repair a wide range of structures. They’re confident drivers and safety experts.
As a Boom Truck Operator (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage) you’ll use your coordination skills to lift and hoist items. You’ll operate a complex piece of machinery, well-suited to placing loads on a smaller worksite, either on the ground or your truck deck. Every job requires your careful approach. You’ll demonstrate mental stamina—thriving when faced with complex tasks that demand great concentration.
BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available on the BC Crane Safety website.
Program Updates
August 2024: OPSN 2024 017 (Changes to practical assessment prerequisites)
June 2021: OPSN 2021 007 (Minimum operating requirement clarifications)
Practical Assessment Information
To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Workplace safety
- Excellent driving skills
- Hand-eye coordination
- Boom truck operations
- Rigging and lifting skills
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.