Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators and Related Workers
(NOC 7522)
in All Trades and TransportationPublic works maintenance equipment operators use vehicles and equipment to maintain streets, highways and sewer systems and use 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 work for 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 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. Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators and Related Workers most commonly work full-time hours.
The median employment income for 46% 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
$12.95
Minimum$20.00
Median$24.43
MaximumAnnual Pay
$5,872
Minimum$40,033
Median$60,670
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
Public works maintenance equipment operators use vehicles and equipment to maintain streets, highways and sewer systems and use 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 work for 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:
- Run garbage trucks to remove garbage and other refuse and dump loads at designated sites.
- Use street cleaning equipment like street sweepers or other vehicles with rotating brushes to remove sand, litter, and trash.
- Use snowplows or trucks fitted with plough blades to remove snow from streets, highways, parking lots and similar areas.
- Use sewer maintenance equipment like sewer jet cleaners to maintain and repair sewer systems.
- Use trucks equipped with road sanding and other similar gear.
- Use chainsaws and other clearing equipment to cut down trees and cut back vegetation close to power lines.
- Use equipment and hand tools to inspect and test utility poles for decay and deterioration.
- Use 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
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
Movement 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
Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services
Public administration
Construction
Transportation and warehousing
Utilities
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
55-64
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
Less than high school
$37,878 median annual incomeHigh school
$40,047 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$39,600 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$42,205 median annual incomeBachelor
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
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.