Oil and Solid Fuel Heating Mechanics
(NOC 7331)
in All Trades and TransportationOil and solid fuel heating mechanics install and maintain oil, coal, and wood heating systems in residential and commercial buildings. Oil heat systems technicians install, repair, and service oil burning and oil combination burning equipment and appliances. They work for heating systems installation and service companies.
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 decline moderately over the next few years, which will likely limit 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. Oil and Solid Fuel Heating Mechanics 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 66% of Oil and Solid Fuel Heating Mechanics who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $43,549. 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
$16.00
Minimum$22.00
Median$33.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$9,524
Minimum$39,759
Median$71,599
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
Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics install and maintain oil, coal, and wood heating systems in residential and commercial buildings. Oil heat systems technicians install, repair, and service oil burning and oil combination burning equipment and appliances. They work for heating systems installation and service companies.
Job duties
Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics:
- Read and interpret drawings or specifications to determine work to be performed.
- Lay out oil burner heating system components and assemble components using hand and power tools.
- Install oil burner components like thermostats, motors, piping, and safety devices, and connect to fuel supply, ventilation, and electrical system.
- Test installed unit and adjust controls for proper functioning.
- Troubleshoot and repair malfunctioning oil burners, and their components and controls.
- Install, maintain, and repair coal and wood heating systems.
- Complete scheduled maintenance service on oil and solid fuel heating systems.
Sample job titles
- furnace installer and repairer (except gas)
- heating mechanic
- heating systems installer
- heating systems technician
- oil burner installer and repairer
- oil burner mechanic
- oil burner technician
- oil heat system technician
- solid fuel heating installer
- wood-burning appliance installer
Skills
This work requires an understanding of the principles of electricity and a mechanical aptitude. You should be able to follow instructions and perform detailed work. Patience and the ability to be methodical are required when testing motors and equipment. Analytical skills are required to determine what is causing equipment to malfunction and decide on the necessary repairs. A background in high school mathematics and the sciences is helpful. You should also have good motor coordination, physical strength, and stamina.
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 college or industry courses in heating systems installation and repair is usually required for trade certification.
- Oil heat system technician trade certification is compulsory in Nova Scotia.
- Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) is also available to qualified oil heat system technicians upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.
Other considerations
Workers may be self-employed and provide services as needed to their clients. Therefore, earnings may vary throughout the year and depend upon the person's ability to attract and retain customers. 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
Southern
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Construction
Retail trade
Wholesale trade
Other services (except public administration)
Educational services
What is the age of Employment?
55-64
45-54
35-44
25-34
65+
15-24
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
Trade Certification
$46,580 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$37,508 median annual incomeHigh school
$30,205 median annual incomeLess than high school
N/ADiploma Below Bachelor
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Trade Certification
$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 Diploma 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
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
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Compulsory Certification (Mandatory): This is a regulated designated trade in Nova Scotia. Individuals must hold a Certification of Qualification, be a registered apprentice, or hold a temporary work permit to legally do this work.
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.