Construction Craft Worker (Labourer)

Construction Craft 

Worker (Labourer)

tradeworker in warehouse
Construction Oil and Gas Forestry
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to perform various labour activities
  • How to load and unload construction materials
  • How to set up construction sites
  • How to operate construction equipment and tools
  • How to assist with forming, mixing, drilling, and demolition 

Construction Craft Workers (Labourers) do it all—from setting up and taking down construction sites, to collaborating with other tradespeople to build, maintain and remove the structures around us. 

As a Construction Craft Worker, you’ll find that no two days are the same. Whether you’re unloading tools and equipment or helping to set up forms, drill or demolish buildings, you’ll use your physical abilities, flexible nature and knack for working with others.  

Above all, you’ll enjoy working with your hands and delivering a dependable level of quality in every task. 

8.00
2.00
Training Hours
4000
True

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

 

 

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Coordination and communication
  • Construction tools and equipment
  • Construction area setup
  • Concrete and asphalt mixing and pouring
  • Health and safety monitoring 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

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Concrete Finisher

Concrete 

Finisher 

Construction Oil and Gas Maritime Forestry
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to finish freshly poured concrete
  • How to apply curing and surface treatments 
  • How to install various concrete structures 
  • How to install anchor bolts, steel plates and other fixtures
  • How to repair, resurface and replace worn or damaged concrete structures 

Concrete Finishers are hands-on, collaborative tradespeople who create, repair and maintain the solid structures that surround and support us—from foundations to walls, sidewalks, and more. 

As a Concrete Finisher, you’ll be required to use the various tools and equipment needed to install, maintain and repair concrete structures. You’ll also use your math and problem-solving skills to determine the best approach to concrete treatment and repairs. 

You’ll get to practice precision, shaping the concrete around us into not just dependable structures, but visually pleasing ones as well.

12.00
2.00
Training Hours
3240
False

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Coordination and focus
  • Troubleshooting
  • Concrete finishing tools and techniques
  • Concrete quality control
  • Safety techniques 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

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Carpenter

Carpenter

carpenter working in shop
Construction Oil and Gas Maritime Manufacturing Forestry Mining Transportation & Transit
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read blueprints and follow building codes
  • How to use construction hand and power tools
  • How to measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials on site
  • How to build foundations, install floors, sub-flooring, walls and roofs
  • How to install doors, stairs, moulding and hardware 

Carpenters build the world around us, from our homes, city centres, and more. They are collaborative and enjoy physical and precise work—as well as the reward of seeing their projects materialize. 

As a Carpenter, you’ll work on a wide range of projects, from furnishings to skyscrapers, mastering numerous materials. While you’re a builder, you’ll take satisfaction in the challenging physical and mathematical nature of the work.  

You can work for construction companies, in maintenance departments, or for yourself, often working as part of a team of trade professionals on the job site.  

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6360
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized (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. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

  • July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)

  • February 2024: Carpenter Standardized Level Exams on-hold pending alignment to the 2024 Carpenter Program Outline and 2024 British Columbia Building Code. The level challenge process and trade challenge pathway are not impacted. Please see this Program Update for details.

  • November 2022: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update

  • March 2023: OPSN-2022-015.1 (Revised Implementation Date)

  • November 2022: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)

  • August 2022: OPSN 2022-015 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)

  • March 2022: All Current (pre-harmonized) levels have been phased out. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) and are interested in registering for Harmonized Level 3 (HL3) or Harmonized Level 4 (HL4) of training are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering to discuss potential gaps in their training. Please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for details. 

  • OPSN Archives

  • July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)

  • February 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. 

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking and coordination
  • Hand and power tool operation
  • Construction site layout
  • Formwork and framing
  • Finishing materials  
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

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Boilermaker

Boilermaker

Construction Oil and Gas Manufacturing Maritime Forestry
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read blueprints and specifications
  • How to lay out and mark bending and cutting lines on plate and sheet steel
  • How to set up heavy metal working machines
  • How to fit and weld metal parts
  • How to erect, install and repair boilers and other products  

Boilermakers are attentive and precise tradespeople who create and maintain the structures that heat, store and transfer essential resources. They possess a wide range of skills to fit a unique role. 

As a Boilermaker you’ll make, test and repair a wide range of items—from boilers to vessels, heat exchangers and other heavy-metal structures.  

You’ll bring a diverse skillset to each task, as you weld, fit, repair and install boilers and other products. This will require you to draw on your precise nature, strong math skills and creativity as you work out blueprints and specifications.  

15.00
3.00
Training Hours
4950
False

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information and Resources

Effective April 1, 2026

Program Information and Resources

Effective until March 31, 2026

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

This program does not have a Standardized Level Exam for Level 1.

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

  • September 2025: OPSN 2025 020 (Revised Program Outline and Profile effective April 1, 2026. For implementation details, please refer to the Implementation plan attached to the OPSN.)

  • OPSN Archives

None

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Metal fabrication
  • Boiler construction, installation and repairs
  • Equipment operation 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

Start Your Apprenticeship

Welder

Welder

tradeworker
Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Manufacturing
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to perform basic trade-related mathematical calculations
  • How to use automatic and semi-automatic cutting machines
  • How to read and interpret welding drawings
  • How to perform welding inspections and testing procedures
  • How to perform a range of welding techniques 

Welders are precise and physical individuals who enjoy the challenge of working with intense focus and hot temperatures. They are the masters of metal, fusing metals into all positions.

As a Welder, you’ll get to meld, attach and affix pieces of metal together with precision, watching objects come to life in your hands.  

You’ll learn how to use a variety of manual and computerized equipment. As you progress, your opportunities will open up pathways to become an expert in areas such as pressure welding, custom fabrication—and more.  

26.00
3.00
Training Hours
4620
True

Program Updates

Certified welders may apply to Technical Safety BC for their pressure welder certificate of qualification, provided they meet eligibility criteria and pass the standardized certification exam. Once certified as pressure welders, individuals must complete additional performance qualification test(s) in accordance with any registered welding procedure specification in order to perform pressure welding in BC.

 

Program Updates

Optional Endorsement

The Welder Endorsement - Multi-Process Alloy Welding enables a welder to weld specialized alloys, by any manual welding process, in any position, and such other work as is usually done by a Red Seal Certified Welder.

To register for this program you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement OR a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement.

Learn more about the MPAW Endorsement.

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:

  • None

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.

Welder Practical Examination for Trade Qualifiers

The Welder Challenge Pathway requires written and practical examinations to achieve Welder certification in British Columbia. Trade qualifiers challenging the Welder certification must successfully pass the written examination (Welder Interprovincial Red Seal) with a score of 70% or higher before applying to complete the practical examination.

  • Precision
  • Coordination
  • Basic drafting
  • Basic metallurgy
  • Specialized tools and 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.

Welder Endorsement: Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW)

Welder Endorsement

Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW)

An Indigenous tradeworker working in a shop.
Manufacturing Construction Maritime ForestryAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to describe and identify specialized welding processes 
  • How to interpret and apply mechanical drawings and layout components 
  • How to fabricate weldments 
  • How to use the Shielded Metal Arc Welding process on low-carbon steel plate and pipe and stainless steel  
  • How to use the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding process for stainless steel 

Multi-Process Alloy Welders combine the skills all welders learn to master and then pushing them to the next level with expertise in specialized alloys and welding processes. 

As a Multi-Process Alloy Welder (MPAW), you’ll enjoy the challenge that comes with taking your welding skills to the next level.  

You’ll test your precision and coordination, as you learn to master specialized welding techniques. Identifying these next-level skills and the types of metals they work with will require focus, and collaboration as you work out the best solution for each task. 

5.00
1.00
Training Hours
900
False

Program Updates

  • March 31, 2017: OPSN 2016 014 (New Program Outline in effect)
    Note: Changes to the Welder program have impacted MPAW endorsement training content. Please refer to the Outline review details attached to the OPSN.

Exam Resources

To register for this program, you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement or a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement. This advanced level of training will appear as an endorsement on the original Welder Certificate of Qualification. 

For more information on the Welder program please refer to the Welder program page.

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.

  • Precision 
  • Coordination 
  • Basic Metallurgy 
  • Weldment fabrication 
  • Specialized welding processes 
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. 

Plumber

Plumber

A female tradesperson stands smiling in a shop in front of a wall of tools.
Construction Forestry Manufacturing Oil and Gas Maritime
Red Seal
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, drawings and project specifications
  • How to install, repair and maintain plumbing fixtures and systems
  • How to install specialized systems
  • How to select, measure, shape and join pipes
  • How to locate, prevent, repair and test pipes for leaks 

Plumbers take great satisfaction creating, and fixing complex systems. Their logical approach is fit for a career centered around installing and repairing the essential plumbing we depend on. 

As a Plumber, you’ll constantly test your troubleshooting skills, demonstrating a persistent and agile approach to work as you think ahead while fixing, installing, and reviewing complex systems and appliances.  

You enjoy challenging and time-sensitive tasks, not to mention working in a key role that upholds high safety standards and ensures we protect the essential water systems around us.

30.00
4.00
Training Hours
6300
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Acronyms
  • Code Books required:
    • One version of each of the following two code books will be required:
      • National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC) 2015 or 2020
      • CSA B149.1:15 or CSA B149.1:20

 

Program, Harmonization and Exam Updates

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

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. 

  • February 2025: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS) with revised Exam Breakdown). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2016 RSOS and the 2023 RSOS can be found here.

  • April 2024: OPSN 2024 011 (Harmonized Level 3 SLE Launch)

  • October 2022: OPSN 2022 025 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Code Book Update)

  • February 2022: OPSN 2022 003 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Launch)

  • October 2019: OPSN 2019 015 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking
  • Monitoring
  • Quality control
  • Plumbing components preparation and assembly
  • Plumbing systems installation  
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

Start Your Apprenticeship

Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technician

Asphalt Paving/

Laydown Technician

Construction Forestry Transportation & TransitAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • How to work safely around asphalt trucks and equipment 
  • How to identify road structures 
  • How to describe asphalt production and products 
  • How to determine asphalt mix and design 
  • How to operate milling, reclaiming, paving, screed, raking and compacting equipment 

Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technicians are confident, calm and coordinated tradespeople who build and repair the roads around us—and whose efforts ensure that we have safe surfaces to drive on.

As an Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technician, you’ll enjoy repairing and making the roads we depend on.

You thrive in an outdoor environment and can concentrate on operating the many pieces of equipment that go into roadwork. You also take great interest in the makeup of our roadways, understanding the various factors that influence gradient and road types. 

4.00
1.00
Training Hours
400
False

Program Updates

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

Certificate of Qualification 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.

  • Coordination and critical thinking 
  • Large machinery operations  
  • Roadwork safety procedures 
  • Road building and paving principles 
  • Equipment 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.

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