Insulators
(NOC 7293)
in All Trades and TransportationInsulators apply insulation materials to plumbing, air-handling, heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, piping equipment and pressure vessels, and walls, floors and ceilings of buildings and other structures, to prevent or reduce the passage of heat, cold, sound or fire. They work for construction companies and insulation contractors, or they may be self-employed.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow slightly over the next few years, which should provide some additional opportunities for employment. With a moderate percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to contribute somewhat to employment opportunities over the coming years. Insulators most commonly work full-time hours.
The median employment income for 36% of Insulators who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $49,844. 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
$17.60
Minimum$33.00
Median$42.68
MaximumAnnual Pay
$10,198
Minimum$39,576
Median$91,062
MaximumCompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$13.50
Minimum$27.25
Median$35.50
MaximumAnnual Pay
$7,580
Minimum$37,269
Median$79,787
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Insulators apply insulation materials to plumbing, air-handling, heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, piping equipment and pressure vessels, and walls, floors and ceilings of buildings and other structures, to prevent or reduce the passage of heat, cold, sound or fire. They work for construction companies and insulation contractors, or they may be self-employed.
Job duties
Insulators:
- Read and interpret drawings and specifications to determine insulation requirements and select type of insulation required.
- Measure and cut insulating material to required dimensions using hand and power tools.
- Apply and secure insulation using spraying, blowing, pasting, strapping, taping and other application and installation methods.
- Fit insulation around obstructions and between studs and joists.
- Install vapour barriers.
- Apply waterproofing cement over insulating materials to finish surfaces.
- Remove asbestos or urea-formaldehyde insulation from buildings when required.
Sample job titles
- apprentice insulator
- boiler and pipe insulator
- fibreglass insulation installer
- insulation installer
- insulation mechanic
- insulator
- refrigeration and air conditioning equipment insulator
- soundproof material installer
Skills
You should have physical stamina, agility, and coordination, and be capable of climbing, reaching, crouching, and handling heavy materials.
Job requirements
- High school is usually required.
- A three- to four-year apprenticeship program or a combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in insulating is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
- Trade certification for insulators (heat and frost) is available, but voluntary, in Nova Scotia.
- Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) is also available to qualified insulators (heat and frost) upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.
Other considerations
Jobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonal changes and general economic conditions, and many are on a project basis. As a result, workers in these jobs should be prepared for periods of unemployment. The physical demands of this work may make it difficult for people to stay in these jobs for a long time. 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
North Shore
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Construction
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Public administration
Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
Apprenticeship
$71,359 median annual incomeHigh school
$37,806 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$48,651 median annual incomeLess than high school
$19,901 median annual incomeDiploma Below Bachelor
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Apprenticeship
$46,494 median annual incomeHigh school
$31,260 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$42,050 median annual incomeLess than high school
$28,319 median annual incomeBachelor
$30,527 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult High School Siploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramThe 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
Various, NS
Various, NS
Insulator
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply insulation materials to pipes, boilers, ducts, refrigeration systems, and related equipment to reduce the passage of heat, cold, sound, or fire. They include courses in insulation specifications, measuring and cutting insulating material, applying and securing insulation, installing vapour barriers, insulation system maintenance, asbestos removal and abatement, and safety training.
Institutions providing this program
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Certificate of Qualification (Voluntary): This job is a designated trade in Nova Scotia. Employers may require certification, but a certificate is not needed to legally do this work.