Pipefitting Trades Contractors and Supervisors
(NOC 7203)
in All Trades and TransportationThese supervisors coordinate and supervise the activities of the following groups of workers: Plumbers, Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers and Gas fitters. They work for construction companies, mechanical, plumbing and pipefitting trade contractors and maintenance departments of industrial, commercial and manufacturing businesses. 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 not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow moderately over the next few years, which will likely 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. Contractors and Supervisors in Pipefitting Trades most commonly work full-time hours.
The median employment income for 44% of Contractors and Supervisors in Pipefitting Trades who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $75,199. 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
$28.60
Minimum$45.00
Median$53.87
MaximumAnnual Pay
$24,095
Minimum$81,092
Median$175,421
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
These supervisors coordinate and supervise the activities of the following groups of workers: Plumbers, Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers and Gas fitters. They work for construction companies, mechanical, plumbing and pipefitting trade contractors and maintenance departments of industrial, commercial and manufacturing businesses. Contractors may be self-employed.
Job duties
Contractors and supervisors in this group:
- Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of workers.
- Create systems 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 staffing actions like hiring and promotions.
- Make sure safe working conditions standards are met.
- Prepare schedules and other reports.
- May manage their own companies.
- May supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of related apprentices, helpers and labourers.
- Small businesses' contractors may execute tasks within their trade area of expertise, which is generally not the case for supervisors or contractors associated with a medium or large business.
Sample job titles
- gas fitters foreman/woman
- pipefitting contractor
- plumbers supervisor
- sprinkler systems installer foreman/woman
- steamfitter supervisor
Skills
You must be able to work well with a variety of people. Leadership and effective spoken and written communication skills are essential. You must also be able to prepare cost estimates, maintain production schedules, supervise staff, and work as part of a team. You should be prepared to keep up with new techniques, equipment, and materials. Physical stamina and good motor skills are necessary.
Job requirements
- High school is usually required.
- Several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a related trade are required.
- Journeyperson trade certification in a related 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. Workers in many of these jobs should be prepared for periods of unemployment. 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 or no intertrade movement among the supervisors in this unit group.
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
Cape Breton
North Shore
Southern
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Transportation and warehousing
Construction
Manufacturing
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
35-44
55-64
65+
25-34
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
Trade Certification
$100,468 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$72,909 median annual incomeLess than high school
N/ADiploma Below Bachelor
N/ADiploma Above 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
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
Plumber
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to practice as licensed plumbers by applying technical knowledge and skills to lay out, assemble, install, and maintain piping fixtures and systems for steam, natural gas, oil, hot water, heating, cooling, drainage, lubricating, in home and business environments. They include courses in source determination, water distribution, waster removal, pressure adjustment, basic physics, technical mathematics, blueprint reading, pipe installation, pumps, welding and soldering, plumbing inspection, and applicable codes and standards.
Institutions providing this program
Stellarton, NS
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.
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.