Marine Mechanical Technician

Marine Mechanical 

Technician

marina in horsehoe bay bc
Maritime Construction AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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.

20.00
2.00
Training Hours
4800
False

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

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

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.

  • 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 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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

Heavy Equipment Operator
Construction Maritime Oil and Gas Forestry Mining Transportation & Transit AttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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.  

4.00
1.00
Training Hours
0
True

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

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.

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 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Floorcovering Installer

Floorcovering 

Installer

Construction Maritime AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to inspect, measure and mark surfaces to be covered 
  • How to install underlay and under-padding 
  • How to install carpeting, hardwoods, vinyl, linoleum and other materials 
  • How to repair damaged floors 
  • How to estimate material and job costs 

Floorcovering Installers are tactile and creative individuals. They are able to put their thoughts into motion—through strong material estimation skills and precision. 

As a Floorcovering Installer, you’ll create one of the most recognized finished products.

Your mathematical nature will ensure you get it right, as will your knack for working with colours and patterns and ability to accurately estimate materials.  

You’ll enjoy the precise nature of the work, as you install, repair, replace and finish a range of surfaces, each unique.  

15.00
3.00
Training Hours
4560
False

Program Updates

Harmonized Program (2024) Information and Resources

In effect starting September 1, 2024

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

  • March 2024: Standardized Level Exams will be deactivated on September 1, 2024, until Harmonized Standardized Level Exams are implemented.

Updates:

  • March 2024: Standardized Level Exams will be deactivated on September 1, 2024, until Harmonized Standardized Level Exams are implemented.

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.

  • Customer service 
  • Physical fitness 
  • Strong understanding of colour and pattern 
  • Floor marking, preparation and installation 
  • Material and work estimations 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal 

Worker

Construction Manufacturing Maritime Oil and Gas AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read engineering and architectural drawings and sketches
  • How to lay out, measure and mark sheet metal according to drawings or templates
  • How to develop patterns for sheet metal using design and drafting (CAD) software
  • How to operate computerized laser or plasma-cutting equipment
  • How to fit and join sheet metal parts, and grind and buff seams, joints and surfaces 

Sheet metal workers are builders who excel at working with many ideas. These traits suit sheet metal, as it’s a durable, flexible material that’s all around us—in roofs, road signs, vehicle parts, and more.

As a Sheet Metal Worker, you’ll get to create, assemble and install all kinds of different sheet metal products. Your work will often require collaboration, and it may focus on fabrication or installation.  

Either way, it’ll require comfort with physical work, as you build components and put them together. It’ll also require working with your hands, and solid math skills as you build. 

32.00
4.00
Training Hours
6240
False

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Sheet Metal Worker is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

 

Program Updates:

  • January 2023: For information regarding Year 4 of transition, please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for more details. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) should contact their Apprenticeship Advisor to discuss options for addressing gaps in their training before taking their next level of technical training.

  • January 2019: Program Update (Cross-program credits)

  • April 2018: OPSN-2018-011 (Harmonization)

  • OPSN Archives

 

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

Information:

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.

  • Layout and development patterns
  • Fabricating
  • Air handling and industrial system installation
  • Architectural and specialty component installation
  • Service system maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Steamfitter/Pipefitter

Steamfitter/

Pipefitter

Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Oil and Gas AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to cut openings for pipes in walls, floors and ceilings
  • How to select the type and size of pipe required for different types of content
  • How to measure, cut, bend, weld, braze, cement, solder and thread pipes
  • How to test existing piping systems for leaks
  • How to clean and maintain pipe units and fittings 

Steamfitter/Pipefitters are logical, hands-on tradespeople who enjoy shaping pipes and installing them for use in a range of systems—from high-pressure water to fuels, cooling solutions and more.

As a Steamfitter/Pipefitter, you’ll need to use your math skills and agility to figure out how to design, assemble, install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex pipe systems.  

You’ll need to be comfortable working independently as you analyze each situation. You’ll also need to be creative with how you design your systems and master heating and bending pipes at very high temperatures.

30.00
4.00
Training Hours
6300
False

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Steamfitter/Pipefitter is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

Program Updates

Harmonization Progress

  • Level 1 - Harmonized*

  • Level 2 - Harmonized*

  • Level 3 - Harmonized*

  • Level 4 - Harmonized*

*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2019
**Current = Program stream for apprentices who've completed level 1 training before April 2019

If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please contact us

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 2019, as per Transition Plan

Please be aware that changes have been made to the Gasfitter - Class B program, please view OPSN 2018 002.1 for details. 

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

Updates:

Information:

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

Updates

  • March 2025: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to the 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and the 2022 RSOS can be found here.
  • October 2018: Program Update (RSOS 2015)

Exam Information

Active as of April 23, 2025

Active until April 23, 2025

Program Information

Information for the Current (pre-harmonized) program.

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Layout and fabrication
  • Piping component assembly
  • Water supply management
  • Hydronic, natural gas and propane system installation 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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 

Crane (Tradespeople)
Construction Maritime AttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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.

10.00
2.00
Training Hours
2650
False

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)

  • OPSN Archives

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

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:

Updates:

  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

Information:

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 focus 
  • Regulatory compliance procedures 
  • Safe work procedures 
  • Rigging and hoisting  
  • Crane operations and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Electrician Endorsement: Marine

Electrician Endorsement: 

Marine 

marina in horsehoe bay bc
Maritime Construction AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to install marine wiring
  • How to install and maintain power generation components
  • How to install and maintain power distribution components
  • How to install and maintain shipboard systems and controls
  • How to test and troubleshoot  

Marine Electricians enjoy the challenge of managing electrical installation, maintenance and repairs in a marine environment—keeping our ships functioning safely and efficiently. 

As a Marine Electrician, you’ll bring your resourceful approach to a unique environment.  

Every day, you’ll take a hands-on and careful approach to the complex systems that run our ships. You’ll ensure safe distribution of electrical power by installing electrical components, interpreting drawings and applying codes and regulations.  

6.00
1.00
Training Hours
1680
False

Program Updates

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

 

Endorsement Exam

 

Updates:

  • None

Information:

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Troubleshooting 
  • Judgement and decision-making
  • Quality control analysis 
  • Installation and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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. 

Electrician, Industrial

Industrial Electrician

 

Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Transportation & Transit AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret drawings, blueprints and electrical code specifications
  • How to install electrical components
  • How to replace or repair electrical components
  • How to keep maintenance records
  • How to test electrical equipment for current, voltage and resistance 

Industrial Electricians work behind-the-scenes to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a wide range of sites—from mines to shipyards and factories.  

As an Industrial Electrician, you’ll inspect, test and repair industrial equipment and electrical systems.

You’ll be inspecting, installing, maintaining and repairing high-voltage industrial equipment and electrical controls at shipyards, factories, and other industrial sites. You’ll have an analytical skillset and good dexterity to ensure you can safely work in a physical and alert way. 

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Industrial Electrician is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

Program Updates:

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

Logbook and Evidence Guides:

Signoff Form:

 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2016 RSOS and 2021 RSOS can be found here

Information:

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Troubleshooting
  • Judgement and decision-making
  • Quality control analysis
  • Installation and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Electrician, Construction

Construction 

Electrician

tradeworker
Construction Manufacturing Forestry Mining Maritime AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to interpret drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications
  • How to pull wire through walls and floors
  • How to splice, join and connect wires to fixtures
  • How to install and repair electrical equipment
  • How to test and repair faults in electrical systems  

Construction Electricians are tradespeople who keep the lights on. They put their minds and bodies to work, inspecting, testing, installing and replacing the electrical systems that run our world. 

As a Construction Electrician, you’ll know exactly how to deal with complex electrical systems in a wide range of settings.  

Your daily tasks will test your coordination and math skills, as you install, commission, test, maintain and service operating electrical systems and equipment.

You’re calm dealing with powerful systems and take pride in the sense of responsibility your work provides.

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Construction Electrician is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

Program Updates:

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • January 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2015 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.)

Information:

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Troubleshooting
  • Judgement and decision-making
  • Quality control analysis
  • Installation and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.

Gasfitter - Class B

Gasfitter

Class B

CommercialGasFitter
Oil and Gas Construction Forestry Maritime AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to measure and mark reference points for gas installations
  • How to install and maintain gas meters, regulators and lines
  • How to install, maintain and service gas heating units and their components
  • How to repair and service gas appliances and related equipment 
  • How to test for and deal with gas leaks 

Gasfitters are careful people who enjoy a physical workplace and function well under pressure. They are very precise, as they oversee the gas systems that heat and power our homes and businesses. 

As a Gasfitter – Class B, you’ll use your strong math skills and thorough approach to install, repair and maintain propane and natural gas products found in homes and buildings with safety as top of mind. 

You may find yourself inside a building or outside, working on a range of tasks that ensure the proper use of gas.  

20.00
2.00
Training Hours
3000
False

Note: SkilledTradesBC is responsible for administering the apprenticeship for Gasfitter – Class B Certificate of Qualification with Red Seal Endorsement. Technical Safety BC is responsible for overseeing the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment through Gas Certification. Please refer to the Technical Safety BC website for information on its gas certification exam requirements. 

Skilled Trades Certification Updates

Trade workers and their employers are responsible for ensuring they hold the necessary licenses or credentials to meet all applicable regulatory requirements.  

In British Columbia, Gasfitter Class B is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, administered by SkilledTradesBC. Trade workers must also be certified by Technical Safety BC to work in the trade, and more information on that certification is available here on the Technical Safety BC website. 

Skilled Trades Certification, also known as compulsory trades, requires tradespeople working in the trade to be either a registered apprentice with SkilledTradesBC or a certified journeyperson.  

To be considered a certified journeyperson, you must hold one of the following qualifications: 

  • A Gasfitter – Class B Certificate of Qualification issued by SkilledTradesBC (either B.C. or with Red Seal endorsement) or other Canadian jurisdictional authorities; or 

  • A Class B Gas Fitter Certificate of Qualification issued by Technical Safety BC, obtained by successfully passing a full-scope technical exam. 

If you have any questions about Skilled Trades Certification requirements, please complete this Contact form and our Advisors will get in touch with you. 

Program Updates

  • November 2024: The Red Seal Gasfitter - Class B program will be implemented on January 1, 2025. Please see OPSN 2024 026.

  • April 2022: Transition Update (Year 4) All levels of the current (pre-2019) program have been phased out. Apprentices who completed Level 1 before 2019 are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering for Level 2. 

  • September 2018: Transition Plan (revised April 2022)

  • March 2018: OPSN 2018 002.1 Program Changes

 

New Red Seal Program Information

Implemetation Date: January 1, 2025 

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • November 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2014 Gasfitter - Class B NOA)

Information:

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.

  • Monitoring and quality control
  • Operation of power tools and equipment 
  • Fuel systems and gas equipment
  • Venting and air supply
  • Controls and safeguards 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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.