Career_tag: Build

Electrician

Electrician

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Electricians can work on new construction, renovations, and maintenance in homes, offices, schools, and factories. In Ontario, Electrician – Construction and Maintenance (309A) is a compulsory trade, so you normally work as a registered apprentice and then become certified by passing the Certificate of Qualification exam. Electrical work is usually done through a Licensed Electrical Contractor, and all work must meet safety rules and code.

Electricians install, repair, and test wiring, lights, outlets, and other electrical equipment. They follow the Canadian Electrical Code and work safely to keep power on and prevent electrical hazards, keeping homes, buildings, and workplaces safe and powered by installing and fixing electrical systems the correct way. Electricians may work on construction sites, with renewable technologies, in power generation, or on large infrastructure projects. Career pathways can include roles in maintenance, inspection, project management, or specialized areas like automation and emerging energy systems.

Salary Information
Pay Range: ~ $41,600 - $105,000 per year (Ontario; full-time equivalent).
Average Salary: Around ~ $70,700 per year (Ontario; based on median wage).

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work to code: Install electrical systems that meet code and pass inspection.
  • Protect people: Keep people safe by preventing shocks, fires, and equipment damage.
  • Respond to issues: Restore power and fix problems quickly to reduce downtime.
  • Be organized: Work cleanly and keep tools, materials, and notes organized.

DAILY TASKS

  • Read blueprints, circuit diagrams, and specifications to plan the wiring layout.
  • Install, replace, and repair wiring, outlets, switches, lights, and electrical panels.
  • Measure, cut, bend, and install conduit and cable trays.
  • Connect and splice wires, and terminate conductors in boxes and panels.
  • Test circuits and equipment using meters to make sure everything works safely.
  • Troubleshoot electrical problems, find faults, and replace damaged parts.
  • Work with other trades and explain what needs to be done on site.
  • Keep basic records of work completed and follow lockout/tagout and other safety steps.
  • Write reports to explain your work and findings.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: Completion of secondary school is usually required.
  • Special training: Complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship that includes paid on-the-job training and in-school technical training. Apprentices learn wiring methods, electrical theory, safety, and how to read drawings and follow code.
  • Extra certifications: In Ontario, you usually need a Certificate of Qualification in a compulsory electrician trade (for example, 309A). A Red Seal endorsement can help you work across Canada. Many employers also ask for Working at Heights, WHMIS, and First Aid/CPR.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Read and use blueprints, circuit diagrams, and the Canadian Electrical Code.
  • Install and repair panels, breakers, switches, receptacles, and lighting.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, conduit benders, and cable pulling equipment.
  • Test and troubleshoot using meters (for example, a multimeter).
  • Follow lockout/tagout and safe work procedures.

Other Skills

  • Problem-solving & decision-making: Finds and fixes electrical problems while staying calm.
  • Safety & attention to detail: Follows safety rules and pays close attention to details.
  • Communication & interpersonal skills: Speaks clearly with customers, supervisors, and other workers.
  • Physical readiness: Has the strength and stamina to stand, climb, and lift safely.
  • Organization & time management: Plans work and finishes tasks on time.
  • Work well under pressure: Stay calm in tough situations.

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Boilermaker

Boilermaker

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Boilermakers work in many settings—including construction sites, manufacturing shops, ships, and energy facilities—helping to create and maintain the critical infrastructure needed for power generation and industrial operations. Their work is essential to keeping factories, plants, and power systems running safely and efficiently. As demand for energy and industrial development grows, skilled boilermakers will continue to play a vital role in supporting these important sectors.

Boilermakers build, install, and repair boilers, tanks, and pressure vessels that hold water, steam, oil, or gas. They read blueprints, cut and shape heavy metal, weld parts together, and test systems to ensure safety and reliability.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $53,000 - $113,000 per year.
Typical Salary: Around $76,000 per year.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Build: Strong and safe pressure systems, boilers and tanks meet safety standards.
  • Prepare: Read drawings and plans to know how parts should be made.
  • Test systems: To make sure they do not leak and work properly.
  • Be safe: Follow safety rules when working with heavy equipment.
  • Maintain: Help keep buildings, factories, and power systems running safely.

DAILY TASKS

  • Read and interpret blueprints to plan the job.
  • Measure and mark metal for cutting and bending.
  • Use large machines to cut, shape, and form metal.
  • Weld metal parts together to make large structures.
  • Use cranes and hoists to lift and move heavy pieces.
  • Test finished work and repair damaged equipment when needed.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: Completion of high school, and completion of a three or four year apprenticeship program OR a combination of four years of work experience in the trade + some college/ industry courses in boilermaker.
    • Complete a total of 6,600 hours (approximately four years), which consists of 5,880 hours on the job work experience and 720 hours of in-school training.
    • Afterwards, you must complete the Skilled Trades Ontario certifying exam with a grade of 70% or higher to obtain your Certificate of Qualification.
  • Special training:
    • Attend skills-upgrading courses at your Local Union training centre, covering topics like safety, welding, rigging, supervision, and others.
    • Boilermakers who work in nuclear facilities will need to obtain Nuclear- Qualified Worker Status (NQW), which encompasses two components: “Nuclear Energy Worker (NEW)” status and “Personnel Certification and Qualification”. This can be obtained in collaboration with a union and/ or employer. After obtaining NQW, you will have a designation signalling your potential to be exposed to radiation, and job-related training to work within a nuclear power plant.
  • Extra certifications: Red Seal (optional).

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Good math skills, and the ability to use protractors, compasses, drawing instruments or templates to make measurements.
  • Working with hands, power tools, and heavy-metal working machines, including brakes, rolls, shears, flame cutters and drill presses.
  • Use various skills, including welding, fitting, and rigging.

Other Skills

  • Safety & awareness: Follows safety rules, uses protective gear, and stays aware of surroundings.
  • Teamwork & communication: Works well with others and communicates clearly.
  • Problem-solving & detail: Finds and fixes problems carefully.
  • Physical readiness & flexibility: Can do physically demanding work in various settings.
  • Learning & adaptability: Learns new skills and uses tools safely.

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Welder

Welder

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Welders work in many industries, including energy, where they help create and maintain the infrastructure needed for power generation and delivery. Their skills are essential to keeping critical systems safe, strong, and reliable. As the energy sector grows, welders will continue to play a vital role in building and maintaining the equipment that keeps things running smoothly.

Welders join, cut, and shape metal parts to build and repair products, equipment, and structures. They read blueprints and instructions, use different welding methods, and inspect their work for safety and quality.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $43,680 – $85,862
Average Salary: Around $58,240

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Weld: Create, build, or repair metal parts. that meet high safety and quality standards.
  • Be flexible: Use different welding methods depending on the job.
  • Be safe: Follow safety rules to protect yourself and others.

DAILY TASKS

  • Read blueprints, technical drawings, or welding instructions.
  • Use welding tools, machines, metal filler, heat, or pressure to join metal pieces together.
  • Works with metal to cut pieces, make formations, and assemble to build and create products.
  • Repair damaged metal by adding new layers.
  • Check or inspect welds to make sure they are strong and clean.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: Completion of high school, and completion of a 3-year apprenticeship program OR 3 years of combined work experience in the trade + some college/ industry courses.
    • Complete a total of 6,000 hours (approximately three years), which consists of 5,280 hours of on-the-job work experience and 720 hours of in-school training.
    • Afterwards, you must complete the Skilled Trades Ontario exam with a grade of 70% or higher to obtain your Certificate of Qualification.
  • Special training: Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Certification may be required for certain welding jobs, ASME Welding Certification may be required for certain welding jobs.
  • Extra certifications: Red Seal (optional), Microcredentials from CWB, Standard/ Emergency First AID, WHMIS, Confined Space Entry, Construction Safety Training System (CSTS), Pipeline Construction Safety Training (PCST).

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Work with your hands and tools, machines, or equipment.
  • Perform various types of welding, such as shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, flux-cored arc welding, and oxy-fuel welding.
  • Good at math, reading and interpreting blueprints.
  • Attention to detail to inspect and maintain work area and welding equipment.
  • Technical skills such as MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-core welding.

Other Skills

  • Safety & awareness: Follows safety rules and job instructions while staying aware of surroundings.
  • Physical skills & precision: Has good hand-eye coordination and can do physical work safely.
  • Teamwork: Works well with others.
  • Adaptability: Learns and uses new tools and machines.
  • Reliability: Can be counted on to finish work and follow safety rules.

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Automated Systems Technician & Technologist

Automated Systems Technician & Technologist

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The demand for Automated Systems Technicians and Technologists is increasing as companies embrace more advanced technologies. Jobs prospects are good in manufacturing, energy, utilities, and transportation fields. With more companies using robots, automation and artificial intelligence, qualified workers in this field will be highly sought after.

Automated Systems Technicians and Technologists set up, fix, and take care of machines like robots, computers, and control systems. Their job is to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $59,000 to $96,000 per year
Average Salary: Around $77,500 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Install and fix machines: Set up, repair, and take care of automated machines, like robotic arms and conveyor belts.

  • Find and solve problems: Figure out what’s wrong with machines and fix them so they work properly.

  • Program systems: Set up and adjust controls for robots and other machines.

  • Check and test equipment: Monitor all machinery and repair or replace where necessary.

  • Work with a team: Help engineers and other team members improve system function and more efficiency.

DAILY TASKS

  • Check automated equipment and figure out what's wrong when it stops working.

  • Program and update control systems to make sure they work well.

  • Perform maintenance and safety checks to keep everything running safely.

  • Record details of repairs, inspections, and system updates.

  • Work with teams to solve problems and make the system work better.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: A college diploma or certificate in automation, mechanical engineering, or electrical technology.

  • Special training: Training in robotics or programming.

  • Certifications: Certifications like the Red Seal Certification or safety-related certificates are helpful.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Know how to use and program robotic systems and control systems.

  • Fix problems with mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.

  • Understand industrial automation software and tools.

Other Skills

  • Communication: Work well with engineers and other team members.
  • Problem-solving: Find and fix issues quickly.

  • Attention to detail: Make sure everything is working correctly.

  • Time management: Stay on top of tasks and deadlines.

  • Adaptability: Keep up with new technology and changes in the industry.

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Construction Coordinator

Construction Coordinator

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As construction materials and building technologies continue to improve, demand for Construction Coordinators will continue to grow. From housing and urban development to infrastructure projects and power generation, with a focus on eco-friendly building methods, there will be a range of sectors looking for candidates to fill this role.

Construction Coordinators help make sure buildings, roads, and other structures are built correctly, safely, and on time. They organize projects and work with teams, communicating with everyone and solving problems to ensure everything meets safety and legal requirements.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $97,000 to $130,000 per year
Average Salary: Around $113,500 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Manage projects: Make sure construction projects finish on time and within budget.

  • Organize tasks: Plan schedules and jobs for workers.

  • Follow rules: Make sure all work meets legal and safety standards.

  • Use resources wisely: Keep track of materials and tools to avoid waste.

  • Check quality: Make sure construction outputs meets all required standards.

DAILY TASKS

  • Keep track of project progress and adjust schedules if needed.

  • Talk to team members and leaders to keep everyone updated.

  • Manage project documents and paperwork.

  • Visit construction sites to make sure safety and quality rules are followed.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: A college diploma or university degree in construction, engineering, or a related field.

  • Certifications: Special certifications in construction or engineering may be helpful.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Understands building rules, safety laws, and construction methods.

  • Knowledge of construction technology, including tools, software, and machinery.

Other Skills

  • Project management: Planning and managing projects.
  • Communication: Clearly explain tasks and work with suppliers and workers.
  • Leadership: Guide teams and keep workers motivated.
  • Problem-solving: Find and fix problems quickly.
  • Attention to detail: Make sure all work meets high standards.
  • Multi-tasking: Handle many tasks at the same time.
  • Adaptability: Adjust to changes in the project or work environment.

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Distribution Engineer

Distribution Engineer

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WIth the growth and transformation of Ontario’s electricity infrastructure comes a steady need for Distribution Engineers. On top of this, an expanding economy means that this role will also be needed in construction, manufacturing tech, and government roles. In short, career prospects are good for this choice of profession.

Distribution Engineers make sure that electrical systems, like the ones that bring power to homes and businesses, are reliable and working properly. They follow safety rules and guidelines, and they help create new ideas and better technology.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $66,560 to $156,000 per year
Average Salary: Around $101,712 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Research and design: Learn about how electrical systems work, like power plants and electronics, and design ways to improve them.

  • Estimate costs and time: Make plans for how much materials and time will be needed to build and fix electrical systems.

  • Build systems: Design circuits, parts, and equipment for electrical systems.

  • Supervise: Oversee the installation and testing of electrical systems to make sure they work properly.

  • Maintenance: Create rules to keep electrical systems working safely and efficiently.

DAILY TASKS

  • Test and check how electrical systems perform.

  • Write reports and plan costs for projects.

  • Oversee the installation and running of electrical systems.

  • Investigate any problems and suggest fixes.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: A university degree in electrical engineering or something similar.

  • Training: A license is needed to sign off on electrical plans. After working for a few years, you can take a test to get this license.

  • Extra studies: Some jobs might need a master's or higher degree.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Design and engineering: Design and fix electrical systems.

  • Problem-solving: Fix electrical issues when systems don’t work.

  • Report-writing: Write reports that include technical information, costs, and plans about electrical systems.

Other Skills

  • Teamwork: Work well with others on the team to fix and maintain turbines.
  • Communication: Share problems and updates clearly with the team and your supervisors. Explain complex ideas in simple ways to other people.
  • Leadership: Lead and help teams working on electrical projects.
  • Time management: Plan and complete projects on time.
  • Creative thinking: Look for ways to improve systems and solve problems.

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Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineer

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Electrical engineers are needed across many industries, from making electric vehicles and designing new technologies to helping with government projects and working on energy systems. As technology keeps growing and energy efficiency becomes more important, this job will be in demand. Plus, there are lots of chances to move up in your career and work on exciting new projects.

Electrical Engineers design and test important machines and systems that power homes, businesses, and advanced technology like robots or space equipment, following safety rules and industry standards to make sure that systems are reliable and safe.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $66,560 to $156,000 per year
Average Salary: Around $101,712 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Research and create: Study how electrical machines and systems work and come up with new designs to improve them.

  • Build and test: Create circuits and electrical systems and test them to make sure they work well.

  • Oversee projects: Check that electrical systems are installed and working properly and supervise any changes or repairs.

  • Set standards: Create rules and guides to keep electrical systems running safely and smoothly.

  • Fix problems: Find out why something isn't working and figure out how to fix it.

DAILY TASKS

  • Research and test ideas to see if they work.

  • Make plans and budgets for new projects.

  • Supervise workers who install or fix electrical systems.

  • Work with a team to solve technical problems.

  • Write reports to explain your work and findings.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: A university education with a focus in electrical or electronics engineering.

  • Extra training: Get special certifications, like a professional engineering license (P.Eng.), after gaining work experience and passing an exam.

  • Advanced studies: For specialized jobs, you might need to study even more and get a master’s or Ph.D.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Design: Create electrical systems and machines.

  • Problem-solving: Be creative in figuring out what’s wrong and how to fix it.

  • Planning: Create plans to keep machines and systems working smoothly.

  • Critical thinking: Look for ways to make systems better and more efficient.

Other Skills

  • Teamwork: Work well with others, including engineers and technicians.

  • Leadership: Help guide and lead your team on projects.

  • Time management: Stay organized and finish work on time.

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Electrician Supervisor

Electrician Supervisor

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The urgent need for housing and the expanding economy demands an expansion of commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects. Electrician Supervisors will be needed in all these sectors. Both the job prospects and the prospects for advancement are strong in this field.

The Electrician Supervisor makes sure the worksite runs smoothly and that all workers are safe while following the rules. They help solve problems quickly, ensuring projects are finished on time and on budget.

Salary Information
Salary Range: $35,786 to $97,500 per year
Average Salary: Around $72,800 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Supervise workers: Oversee the work of electricians and other skilled workers to make sure they are doing their jobs properly.

  • Follow the rules: Make sure everyone follows safety rules and building codes.

  • Plan and organize: Create schedules, assign tasks, make sure people follow building codes, and manage materials so the work gets done on time.

  • Check quality: Make sure the work is high quality and meets all codes and safety standards.

  • Manage resources: Keep track of tools, equipment, and materials to make sure everything is ready to go.

DAILY TASKS

  • Give workers tasks to do and check in to see how they are doing.

  • Ensure that proper safety and code protocols are followed

  • Talk to clients and colleagues to keep them updated on the project.

  • Solve problems quickly to keep the project moving forward.

  • Write reports about how the work is going.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: Complete a 4–5-year apprenticeship program.

  • Certification: Get certified as an electrician (especially for construction or residential work).

  • Training: Extra safety or equipment training may be needed, depending on the job. Qualified construction electricians can complete an interprovincial Red Seal examination.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Project management: Keep the project on schedule and within budget.

  • Technical knowledge: Understand the rules and safety standards to make sure everything is done right.

  • Leadership: Lead and guide your team to make sure people work well together.

  • Communication: Be able to talk with the team, clients, and others involved in the project.

  • Time management: Organize tasks to meet deadlines.

  • Attention to detail: Make sure all work is done safely and correctly.

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Energy Systems Engineer

Energy Systems Engineer

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As energy systems continue to grow and transform, Energy Systems Engineers will be needed more than ever. Power plants, factories and utility companies are just a few examples of industries in need of this position. Opportunities for growth and advancement are there as well.

Energy Systems Engineers help make sure we have electricity for our lights, devices, businesses, and schools. They keep everything working safely and efficiently so we don’t have interruptions, and they find ways to improve how our energy systems work.

Salary Information
Salary Range: $58,240 to $141,440 per year
Average Salary: Around $93,600 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate machines and equipment: Operate important equipment like turbines, reactors, and generators to create power for homes and businesses.

  • Monitor machine performance: Use computers and other tools to monitor how machines operate and make sure they’re running properly.

  • Recognize and fix problems: Review important data, check for issues, fix small problems, and keep the machines working well.

  • Follow the rules: Make sure everything is done safely and within regulations, and write reports to track what’s happening.

  • Handle emergencies: Quickly respond to problems to keep everything running safely and avoid power outages.

DAILY TASKS

  • Regularly check and run machines that generate electricity and address potential problems.

  • Watch gauges, alarms, and systems to make sure everything works properly.

  • Clean and fix small issues in equipment.

  • Record data to track how well things are working.

  • Work with colleagues to make sure power flows smoothly.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: College or University degree in engineering or other power system related programs.

  • Training: A 3-5-year apprenticeship program or 3+ years of work experience in the trades with some college or industry courses in electrical and electronic technology are required.

  • Certifications or licensing: Special certificates or licenses, especially for working with nuclear power or complex systems may be required in certain provinces.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Ability to work with generating equipment and control systems.

  • Strong knowledge of how electrical systems work.

Other Skills

  • Detail-oriented: Pay close attention to details to make sure the machines and equipment run perfectly.

  • Problem-solving: Solve problems quickly when something goes wrong.

  • Teamwork: Work well with others to keep systems running smoothly, and communicate clearly with teammates about updates and emergencies.

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Hydroelectric Plant Operator

Hydroelectric Plant Operator

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There is a need for energy-generating station operators, like Hydroelectric Plant Operators, with enough jobs for those who are interested! This particular job is in demand because of new building projects and the growing need for reliable electricity services. In Canada, there are job opportunities in places like Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Nunavut.

Hydroelectric Plant Operator Technicians make sure electricity is made and distributed safely, efficiently, and reliably for schools, factories, and other places. They ensure energy is being generated efficiently to meet demand and avoid downtime.

Salary Information
Pay Range: $58,240 to $141,440 per year
Average Salary: Around $93,600 per year

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate equipment: Work with machines including turbines and generators to make electricity and provide power to communities or industry.

  • Monitor equipment and energy use: Monitor gauges, alarms, and meters to spot problems and ensure everything works as efficiently as possible.

  • Maintenance: Do regular maintenance, fix small problems, and keep equipment from breaking down.

  • Control and coordinate: Turn machines on and off, adjust power levels, and work with others to manage how much electricity is used.

  • Record and report: Record what happens each day, how machines are working, and report on maintenance and safety.

  • Emergency response: Act quickly in emergencies to stay safe and get the power working again.

DAILY TASKS

  • Adjust controls to manage how much power is being produced.

  • Check machines to make sure they're working properly.

  • Report on how the machines are running and inform maintenance workers about problems.

  • Do simple maintenance like cleaning and oiling machines.

  • Work with others to balance how much electricity is being used.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: High school diploma followed by a 3 to 5 year apprenticeship or similar experience through industry courses in electrical and electronic technology.

  • Certification: You can also go to college to study power engineering and get certified by passing the required exams in your province or territory.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Technical Skills

  • Machine operation: Use computers and control boards to monitor and control various systems.

  • Equipment repair: Check machines, solve problems, and make small repairs.

  • Data monitoring: Look at readings from equipment and instruments to monitor how well the equipment is working.

Other Skills

  • Safety awareness: Follow safety rules while working in dangerous environments.
  • Attention to detail: Be careful and accurate when checking and fixing equipment.
  • Teamwork: Work well with other operators and maintenance workers.
  • Communication: Share important information about how things are running and if anything needs fixing.

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