Mechanic Trades Contractors and Supervisors
(NOC 7301)
in All Trades and TransportationContractors and supervisors in mechanic trades supervise and coordinate the activities the following groups of workers: Machinery and transportation equipment mechanics (except motor vehicle), Automotive service technicians, and Other mechanics. They work for a wide range of companies that are related to the trade supervised. Contractors 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 a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to remain largely the same over the next few years. 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 Mechanic Trades most commonly work full-time hours. 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 77% of Contractors and Supervisors in Mechanic Trades who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $70,505. 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
$14.00
Minimum$26.00
Median$38.46
MaximumAnnual Pay
$20,748
Minimum$69,498
Median$116,375
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
Contractors and supervisors in mechanic trades supervise and coordinate the activities the following groups of workers: Machinery and transportation equipment mechanics (except motor vehicle), Automotive service technicians, and Other mechanics. They work for a wide range of companies that are related to the trade supervised. Contractors may be self-employed.
Job duties
Contractors and supervisors:
- Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of workers.
- Create ways to meet work schedules and coordinate work activities with other departments.
- Request materials and supplies.
- Solve work problems and recommend ways to improve productivity.
- Train or arrange for training of workers.
- Recommend staff actions like hiring and promotions.
- Make sure that standards for safe working conditions are met.
- Prepare production and other reports.
- May manage their own companies.
- May also supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of related apprentices, helpers and labourers.
- Small businesses' contractors may carry out tasks within their trade, which is generally not the case for supervisors or contractors associated with a medium or large business.
Sample job titles
- air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic foreman/woman
- aircraft maintenance engineers (AME) supervisor
- appliance repair shop supervisor
- electrical mechanics foreman/woman
- heating systems contractor
- heavy equipment mechanic foreman/woman
- industrial mechanics supervisor
- motor vehicle repair shop supervisor
- printing machine repairers foreman/woman
- railway car repairer foreman/woman
- small-engine repair shop supervisor
- textile machine mechanics foreman/woman
Skills
Leadership and effective spoken and written communication skills are needed, 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 methods, equipment, and materials. Physical stamina, alertness and good motor skills are necessary.
Job requirements
- High school is usually required.
- Several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a relevant trade are usually required.
- Journeyperson trade certification in a relevant trade 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. Many who work on a project basis and can expect periods of unemployment throughout the year. There is little or no movement between trade supervisory positions in this group. Movement 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
North Shore
Southern
Cape Breton
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Construction
Other services (except public administration)
Transportation and warehousing
Public administration
Manufacturing
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
55-64
35-44
65+
25-34
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
Apprenticeship
$72,317 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$74,111 median annual incomeHigh school
$52,682 median annual incomeLess than high school
N/ABachelor
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
Agricultural Mechanics and Equipment Technology
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to maintain and repair farm, ranch, and agribusiness power equipment and vehicles. They include courses in the principles of diesel, combustion, electrical, steam, hydraulic, and mechanical systems and their application to maintaining crop spraying equipment, tractors and hauling equipment, planting and harvesting equipment, cutting equipment, power sources and systems for silos, irrigation and pumping equipment, dairy, feeding and shearing operations, and processing systems.
Institutions providing this program
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all aircraft components other than engines, propellers, avionics, and instruments. They include courses in layout and fabrication of sheet metal, fabric, wood, and other materials into structural members, parts, and fittings, and replacement of damaged or worn parts such as control cables and hydraulic units.
Institutions providing this program
Appliance Installation and Repair Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, and service major gas, electric, and consumer appliances such as stoves, microwaves, refrigerators, dryers, water heaters, washers, dishwashers, and commercial units such as ice makers and coffee makers.
Institutions providing this program
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, reconstruct and finish automobile bodies, fenders, and external features. They include courses in structure analysis, damage repair, non-structural analysis, mechanical and electrical components, plastics and adhesives, painting and refinishing techniques, and damage analysis and estimating.
Institutions providing this program
Automotive Mechanics Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. They include courses in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.
Institutions providing this program
Stellarton, NS
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to operate and maintain a variety of heavy equipment like crawler tractors, motor graders and scrapers, shovels, rigging devices, hoists, and jacks. They include courses in digging, ditching, sloping, stripping, grading, and backfilling, clearing and excavating.
Institutions providing this program
Truro, NS
Port Hawkesbury, NS
Falmouth, NS
Diesel Mechanics Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain diesel engines in vehicles like cars, buses, ships, trucks, railroad locomotives, and construction equipment as well as stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment.
Institutions providing this program
Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to operate, maintain, and repair electrical and electronic equipment. They include courses in electrical circuitry, simple gearing, linkages and lubrication of machines and appliances, and the use of testing equipment.
Institutions providing this program
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. They include courses in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Institutions providing this program
Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills in the field maintenance and repair of heavy equipment, and in the general maintenance and overhaul of such equipment. They include courses in inspection, maintenance, and repair of tracks, wheels, brakes, operating controls, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, electrical circuitry, engines and in techniques of welding and brazing.
Institutions providing this program
Stellarton, NS
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair and maintain industrial machinery and equipment such as cranes, pumps, engines and motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, production machinery, marine deck machinery, and steam propulsion, refinery, and pipeline-distribution systems.
Institutions providing this program
Machine Tool Technology/Machinist
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to plan, manufacture, assemble, test, and repair parts, mechanisms, machines, and structures in which materials are cast, formed, shaped, moulded, heat treated, cut, twisted, pressed, fused, stamped or worked.
Institutions providing this program
Stellarton, NS
Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to the specialized maintenance and repair of trucks, buses, and other commercial and industrial vehicles. They include courses in diesel engine mechanics, suspension and steering, brake systems, electrical and electronic systems, preventive maintenance inspections, drive trains, gasoline engine mechanics, HVAC systems, and auxiliary equipment installation and repair.
Institutions providing this program
Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain motorcycles and other similar powered vehicles. They include courses in lubrication and cooling systems, electrical and ignition systems, carburetion, fuel systems and adjustments of moving parts.
Institutions providing this program
Pipefitter and Sprinkler Fitter
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to design, install, and test industrial and commercial piping systems and automatic fire and exposure protection systems. They 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
Port Hawkesbury, NS
Dartmouth, NS
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Certificate of Qualification: Certification in a related designated trade is required to work in this job.
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.