Gas Fitters
(NOC 7253)
in All Trades and TransportationGas fitters install, inspect, repair and maintain gas lines and gas equipment such as meters, regulators and heating units in residential, commercial and industrial establishments. They are employed by gas utility companies and gas servicing companies.
Job Outlook
Undetermined
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Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
This is not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Gas Fitters most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 82% of Gas Fitters who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $54,908. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
N/A
MinimumN/A
MedianN/A
MaximumAnnual Pay
$26,660
Minimum$53,602
Median$75,648
MaximumCompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$13.00
Minimum$20.35
Median$34.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$7,580
Minimum$37,269
Median$79,787
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Gas fitters install, inspect, repair and maintain gas lines and gas equipment such as meters, regulators and heating units in residential, commercial and industrial establishments. They are employed by gas utility companies and gas servicing companies.
Job duties
Gas fitters perform some or all of the following duties:
- Study drawings and specifications to determine the layout of the installation and materials required.
- Measure and mark reference points for installation of gas lines and equipment.
- Install and maintain gas meters and regulators and gas lines between gas unit and gas meter.
- Install, maintain and service gas heating units and their components, such as burners, valves and automatic controls.
- Test and replace defective equipment or components.
- Test and adjust control mechanisms and check pipes and piping connections for gas leaks using gas detecting devices.
- Attend to gas escape calls and assist in the investigation of gas fires and explosions.
- Prepare reports on work performed and condition of facilities.
- Advise clients regarding standards, safety features and maintenance of gas units and systems.
- Convert motor vehicles or appliances to use natural gas fuels.
- May repair and service gas appliances and related equipment.
Sample job titles
- apprentice gas fitter
- district gas serviceman/woman
- gas customer servicer
- gas fitter
- gas fitter-installer
- gas pipefitter
- gas servicer
- gas technician
- industrial gas servicer
Skills
This work requires a methodical approach, a mechanical aptitude, and an ability to plan ahead. You must be agile, coordinated, and capable of working in cramped and awkward conditions. Patience and the ability to follow instructions are important. You should also be able to cooperate and work well with others on large projects.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school is usually required.
- Completion of a two- or three-year gas fitter apprenticeship program or several years of work experience in a pipefitting trade and completion of a high school, college or industry gas fitter program are required.
- Gas fitter trade certification is compulsory in Nova Scotia.
- Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) is available to qualified gas fitters upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.
- A provincial gas fitter licence is usually required.
Other considerations
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Northern
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Retail Trade
Construction
Management, Admin & Other Support
Wholesale Trade
Professional Business Services
Top levels of education
Trades certificate
$58,442 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$63,296 median annual incomeHigh school
$39,861 median annual incomeLess than high school
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Trades certificate
$40,890 median annual incomeHigh school
$28,089 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$39,023 median annual incomeLess than high school
$25,753 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$36,972 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult high school/secondary diploma programs
This program is typically offered at the high school level.The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Siège Social: 1695, Route 1
Pointe-de-l'Église, NS B0W 1M0
(902) 769-2114
PO Box 220
Halifax, NS B3J 2M4
(866) 679-6722
Various, NS
Various, NS
Pipefitting/pipefitter and sprinkler fitter
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to design, install, and test industrial and commercial piping systems and automatic fire and exposure protection systems. These programs include courses in water systems, steam systems, heating and cooling systems, lubricating systems, piping materials, installation tools operation and maintenance, valve installation and repair, technical mathematics, blueprint interpretation, and applicable codes and standards.
Institutions providing this program
21 Woodlawn Road
Dartmouth, NS B2W 2R7
(902) 491-4900
5685 Leeds Street
Halifax, NS B3K 2T3
(902) 491-6722
PO Box 760, 1575 Lake Road
Shelburne, NS B0T 1W0
(902) 875-8640
226 Reeves Street
Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2A2
(902) 625-2380
Department of Labour and Advanced Education 2021 Brunswick Street, PO Box 578
Halifax, NS B3J 2S9
(800) 494-5651
40 Neptune Crescent
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4R8
(902) 442-0120
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Certificate of Qualification (Mandatory): This job is a regulated designated trade in Nova Scotia. Certification is required to work in this job.