Marine Service Technician

Marine Service 

Technician

marina
Maritime ConstructionAnalyticalCoordinatedDecisiveResourcefulSystematic
  • 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.

24.00
4.00
Training Hours
4000
False

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

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.

Program Profile

Occupational Description

“Marine Service Technician” refers to a tradesperson who performs any combination of service, repair, construction or installation of recreational vessels and light commercial vessels, with marine specialty skills in one or more of the following areas: composites technology, refinishing, woodworking, metals, systems installation and rigging. They may be employed by boat repair yards, marinas, yacht manufacturing facilities, yacht clubs, marine dealerships or specialty marine service providing businesses.

View Profile

Certificate of Qualification Exam Information and Resources

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.

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.

  • Safe & professional work habits
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Troubleshooting & decision-making
  • Applied knowledge of vessel design, structural materials, paint, coatings & onboard 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. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Marine Mechanical Technician

Marine Mechanical 

Technician

marina in horsehoe bay bc
Maritime ConstructionAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Marine Mechanical Technicians install, troubleshoot, repair & maintain engines, drive trains and other mechanical, electrical and fluid systems typically used in the recreational marine industry. Some light commercial & industrial applications are serviced. Their work involves all aspects of repairs to diesel engines, gasoline engines, outboard engines, conventional inboard drive trains and stern drives. They also service some light commercial and industrial applications.

View Profile

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. 

Locksmith

Locksmith

ConstructionAnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to interpret blueprints 
  • How to apply codes and regulations 
  • How to use key-cutting and welding tools and equipment 
  • How to create keys and install and repair locks 
  • How to install electrical components, master key systems and security hardware 

Locksmiths are security experts who build, install, repair and maintain the complex and fascinating systems we use to start our cars, lock our homes and protect our valuable possessions. 

As a Locksmith, you’re a highly inquisitive and precise professional who never shies away from a complex challenge.  

Due to your persistent and logical nature, you’ll greatly enjoy working on all sorts of security components. You’ll not only cut keys, but also repair, service and install various control systems.  

Above all, you’ll take pride in a career that helps people feel more secure.

Training Hours
3600
False

Most locksmiths working in B.C. require a security licence. For more information about the security industry in B.C., and to explore licensing requirements, please visit Security Program Division’s website.

Program Updates

 

Exam Breakdowns

Program 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.

  • Customer service 
  • Communication  
  • Use of tools and equipment 
  • Creating keys and repairing locks 
  • Installing security systems 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment 

Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator
Construction Maritime Oil and Gas Forestry Mining Transportation & TransitAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Heavy Equipment Operators operate heavy machinery such as heavy articulating rock trucks, loaders, excavators, backhoes, dozers and graders. These machines are used universally for all manner of heavy construction including earth moving, road building, mining, forestry, and mega projects. Heavy Equipment Operators may also be responsible for the basic maintenance of equipment, safety around equipment and the compliance of markers, grades and stakes.

View Profile

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.

Geotechnical/ Environmental Driller

Geotechnical/ 

Environmental Driller

Construction

Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time. 

Geotechnical/Environmental Drillers (Geo/Enviro Driller) operate various types of mobile soil and rock drilling equipment for the purpose of gathering site characterization information and data. They typically work with an engineer or technologist to achieve a greater understanding of the stratigraphy or hydrogeological conditions present by collecting soil or water samples, performing various types of probe or in-situ tests, or by setting various types of installations for either geotechnical or environmental monitoring. 

Training Hours
0
False

Program Updates

Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time. 

For further information on this trade and for a detailed list of learning materials please contact BC Ground Water Association on 604-530-8934 (Toll free within BC: 1-855-530-8934) and at secretary [at] bcgwa.org (secretary[at]bcgwa[dot]org)

Program Information

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Geotechnical/Environmental Drillers (Geo/Enviro Driller) operate various types of mobile soil and rock drilling equipment for the purpose of gathering site characterization information and data. They typically work with an engineer or technologist to achieve a greater understanding of the stratigraphy or hydrogeological conditions present by collecting soil or water samples, performing various types of probe or in-situ tests, or by setting various types of installations for either geotechnical or environmental monitoring. 

View Profile

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.

Certification challenge only trade
0

Geoexchange Driller

Geoexchange 

Driller

Construction

Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time.

Geoexchange drillers set up and operate mobile equipment used to drill vertical closed-loop borehole heat exchangers, which provide a heat source/sink for geoexchange heating and cooling systems in residential, commercial and industrial applications. They must have familiarity with the geological formations in the area they are working to enable selection of the most appropriate type of drilling.

Training Hours
0
False

Program Updates

Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time. 

For further information on this trade and for a detailed list of learning materials please contact BC Ground Water Association on 604-530-8934 (Toll free within BC: 1-855-530-8934) and at secretary [at] bcgwa.org (secretary[at]bcgwa[dot]org)

Exam Breakdowns

Program 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.

Certification challenge only trade
0

Floorcovering Installer

Floorcovering 

Installer

Construction Maritime
Red Seal
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.

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.

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
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
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:

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.

  • 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
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
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. 

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Steamfitter/Pipefitters lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain, repair and service equipment and piping systems carrying water, steam, fluids, gases, chemicals and fuel in various systems such as heating, cooling, lubricating and process piping systems. They read and interpret drawings, specifications and codes to determine layout, type and size of pipe, and tools to use. They measure, cut, thread, groove, bend, solder, braze, assemble and install metal, plastic and fiberglass pipes, valves and fittings. As well, they must be able to join and secure pipe sections of related equipment, and they also check systems for leaks. Steamfitters/Pipefitters also do general maintenance work including replacement of worn components.

View Program Profile

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

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
Red Seal
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

  • June 2025: OPSN 2025 010 (Changes to apprentice level exam challenge eligibility requirements) 

  • 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

Challenge a Standardized Level Exam (SLE) as an apprentice

Tower Crane Operator apprentices have specific requirements that differ from other trades when challenging level exams.

To challenge a level exam, submit a completed Tower Crane Operator Level Placement Exam Application Form to Customer Service. Incomplete applications will not be processed and will be returned to you.

There is no cost to apply for a Level Challenge exam.

For more information on eligibility requirements, please refer to OPSN 2025 010 and the Program Profile.

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:

  • June 2025: OPSN 2025 010 (Changes to apprentice level exam challenge eligibility requirements)
  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

Information:

Updates:

  • June 2025: OPSN 2025 010 (Changes to apprentice level exam challenge eligibility requirements)
  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

Information:

Updates:

  • June 2025: OPSN 2025 011 (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2012 NOA and the 2023 RSOS can be found here.

Exam Information:

Active as of July 20, 2025

Active until July 19, 2025

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.

Subscribe to Construction