Contractors and Supervisors in Maintenance Trades and Heavy Equipment and Transport Operators
(NOC 7301, 7302, 7303, 7304, 7305)
in All Trades and TransportationThese individuals supervise and coordinate the activities of people who work as mechanics, heavy equipment operators, photographic/film/print processors, and those within the railway and motor transport industry such as railway engineers, truck drivers and bus drivers. They are employed in a very wide range of establishments.
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 a fairly large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities occur fairly regularly. The number employed in this occupation is expected to decline slightly over the next few years, which may affect the number of new opportunities available. 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. Contractors and Supervisors in Maintenance Trades and Heavy Equipment and Transport Operators 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 65% of Contractors and Supervisors in Maintenance Trades and Heavy Equipment and Transport Operators who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $70,042. 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
$15.00
Minimum$25.00
Median$37.98
MaximumAnnual Pay
$20,131
Minimum$63,487
Median$106,945
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
These individuals supervise and coordinate the activities of people who work as mechanics, heavy equipment operators, photographic/film/print processors, and those within the railway and motor transport industry such as railway engineers, truck drivers and bus drivers. They are employed in a very wide range of establishments.
Job duties
Contractors and supervisors in this group perform some or all of the following duties:
- Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of workers.
- Establish methods to meet work schedules and coordinate work activities with other departments, project supervisors, or managers.
- Requisition materials and supplies.
- Resolve work problems and recommend work measures to improve productivity.
- Train or arrange for training of workers.
- Recommend personnel actions such as hiring and promotions.
- Ensure that standards for safe working conditions are observed.
- Prepare production and other reports.
- May manage the operations of their own companies.
- May also supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of related apprentices, helpers and labourers.
- May review and approve all job proofs or samples to ensure quality of work meets client specifications.
- May set up machines or equipment.
- May dispatch bus drivers and monitor routes to ensure schedules are met and to resolve operating problems.
Sample job titles
- bus dispatcher
- chief aircraft maintenance engineer (AME)
- construction site foreman/woman
- mechanical maintenance supervisor - manufacturing
- pressroom supervisor - printing
- printing shop foreman/woman
- road maintenance foreman/woman
- stationmaster - railway transport
- trucking contractor
- yard foreman/woman - railway
Skills
To work as a supervisor, you should have experience in the area being supervised. Leadership and effective oral and written communication skills are essential and you must be able to work well with a variety of people. You must be responsible and well organized and be able to prepare cost estimates, maintain production schedules, supervise staff, and able to work as part of a team. You should also be prepared to keep up with new techniques, equipment, and materials. Physical stamina, alertness and good motor skills are necessary.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school is usually required.
- Red Seal endorsement (allowing for interprovincial mobility) is available for many of the specific trades in this group and may be required.
- Several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a relevant trade are usually required.
- A Canadian Rail Operating Rules certificate is required for Supervisors of railway transport operations.
- A certificate in accordance with the Railway Employee Qualification Standards Regulations is required.
Other considerations
Most people in these jobs work full-time but often for only part of each year. Jobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonal changes and general economic conditions. As a result, workers in many of these jobs should be prepared for periods of unemployment. Also, many work on a project basis and can expect periods of unemployment throughout the year. Individuals in these jobs usually have significant non-supervisory experience in related jobs. There is little mobility between supervisory positions in the different transportation sectors of this group, but some mobility within each specific sector. Progression to management 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
Annapolis Valley
Northern
Cape Breton
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Construction
Transportation and Warehousing
Public Administration
Other Services
Management, Admin & Other Support
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
35-44
55-64
25-34
65+
15-24
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
35-44
55-64
25-34
Top levels of education
Trades certificate
$53,410 median annual incomeHigh school
$42,521 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$50,340 median annual incomeLess than high school
$35,513 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$47,853 median annual incomeCompared 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
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.