Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators and Related Workers
(NOC 7522)
in All Trades and TransportationPublic works maintenance equipment operators operate vehicles and equipment to maintain streets, highways and sewer systems and operate trucks to collect garbage and recyclable materials. This group also includes workers who clear vegetation close to power lines, workers who inspect the condition of utility poles and workers who locate underground utility lines and pipes. They are employed by municipal, provincial and federal public works departments, private contractors under contract with government public works departments and private companies involved in the collection of refuse and recyclable materials.
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 grow slightly over the next few years, which should provide some additional opportunities for employment. 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. Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators and Related Workers most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs may either be permanent or temporary positions, as both are common. 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 47% of Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators and Related Workers who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $51,040. 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$19.00
Median$22.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$5,872
Minimum$40,033
Median$60,670
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
Public works maintenance equipment operators operate vehicles and equipment to maintain streets, highways and sewer systems and operate trucks to collect garbage and recyclable materials. This group also includes workers who clear vegetation close to power lines, workers who inspect the condition of utility poles and workers who locate underground utility lines and pipes. They are employed by municipal, provincial and federal public works departments, private contractors under contract with government public works departments and private companies involved in the collection of refuse and recyclable materials.
Job duties
Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers perform some or all of the following duties:
- Operate garbage trucks to remove garbage and other refuse and dump loads at designated sites.
- Operate street cleaning equipment such as street sweepers or other vehicles equipped with rotating brushes to remove sand, litter and trash.
- Operate snowplow or trucks fitted with plough blades to remove snow from streets, highways, parking lots and similar areas.
- Operate sewer maintenance equipment such as rodders and sewer jet cleaners to maintain and repair sewer systems.
- Operate trucks equipped with road sanding and other similar apparatus.
- Operate chainsaws and other clearing equipment to fell trees and cut back vegetation close to power lines.
- Operate equipment and hand tools to inspect and test utility poles for decay and deterioration.
- Operate equipment and instruments to locate underground utility lines and pipes.
- Check, lubricate, refuel and clean equipment and report any malfunctions to supervisor.
Sample job titles
- garbage truck driver - public works
- public works maintenance equipment operator
- recycling truck driver - public works
- salt truck operator - public works
- sanitation truck driver
- snowplough operator
- utility arborist
- utility pole inspector
- utility tree trimmer
Skills
To work in these jobs, you should have good health, physical stamina, and strength. Agility, coordination, and a mechanical aptitude would be helpful. You must also be able to take direction and carry out instructions given by supervisors.
Job requirements
- Some high school may be required.
- Experience as a public works labourer is usually required.
- On-the-job training is provided.
- A driver's licence appropriate to a specific type of equipment may be 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
Southern
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Management, Admin & Other Support
Public Administration
Construction
Transportation and Warehousing
Utilities
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
35-44
55-64
65+
25-34
15-24
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
35-44
55-64
25-34
Top levels of education
Less than high school
$39,682 median annual incomeHigh school
$47,739 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$47,244 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$46,187 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
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
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.