Working as an energy technician in Canada

There is a shortage of skilled energy professionals in Canada. Therefore, this industry offers ample opportunities for career advancement while offering good salaries and benefits.

Job Bank estimates there will be 13,900 jobs for energy workers between 2019 and 2028. The most promising province for the profession is New Brunswick.

Salaries of energy workers

Salaries for power engineers in Canada are considered to be among the highest paid and depend on various factors: employment requirements, qualifications, working conditions and employer location. Experienced specialists earn more than beginners.

According to official information, power engineers in Canada earn an average of $103,204 a year or $8,600 a month.

Energy workers in Canada — what do they do?

According to the Canadian Occupational Handbook, energy workers in Canada:

• operate automated or computerized control systems, stationary engines and auxiliary equipment such as reactors, boilers, turbines, generators, pumps, compressors, pollution control devices and other equipment to generate electricity and provide light, heat, ventilation and cooling for buildings and industrial plants and facilities;
• Starts and shuts down power plant equipment, controls switching operations, monitors water levels and communicates with system operators to regulate and coordinate transmission loads, frequency and grid voltage;
• monitor and inspect plant equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, sensors, alarms, meters and other instruments for measuring temperature, pressure, air and fuel flow, and emissions in order to detect leaks or other equipment failures and ensure that plant equipment operates at maximum efficiency;
• analyze and record instrument readings and equipment malfunctions;
• Troubleshoot and make corrective and minor repairs to prevent failure of equipment or systems;
• respond to emergencies when necessary;
• Clean and lubricate generators, turbines, pumps and compressors, and perform other routine equipment maintenance using appropriate lubricants and hand, power and precision tools;
• keep a daily log of operation, maintenance and safety operations, and write reports on plant operation and non-compliance;
• can assist in the development of operation, maintenance and safety procedures.

Where and how energy workers in Canada work

Power engineers operate and maintain reactors, turbines, boilers, generators, stationary engines and auxiliary equipment to generate electricity and to provide heating, lighting, cooling and other utilities for commercial, institutional and industrial installations and facilities.

Power system operators supervise and operate switchboards and related equipment in electrical equipment control centers to control the distribution of electricity in transmission networks. They work in power plants, electric utilities, manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities, government and commercial institutions.

Entry-level positions

Less experienced and qualified power workers may be exposed to high levels of noise, temperature and humidity. They may encounter all types of outdoor weather conditions as well as dust, grease, hazardous chemicals or unpleasant odours. For example, those who work in coal-fired power plants are exposed to coal dust and fly ash. At large plants, energy workers may have to enter confined spaces or check equipment located at high altitudes.

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Power engineers with more training and experience often work in more comfortable rooms or offices.

Power workers often work in shifts, weekends, holidays and overtime to ensure uninterrupted production.

Employment requirements

To get a job as an energy engineer in Canada, you need to have completed high school and college training in stationary or energy engineering, as well as several years of experience in the field.

Energy producers also need a special provincial certificate (trade certificate). Certification is mandatory only in Nova Scotia and Quebec and available but voluntary in New Brunswick. This certificate increases employment opportunities.

Power System Operators require completion of a 3-5 year power system operator apprenticeship program or more than three years of experience in the field. Completion of a college or industry course in electrical and electronic technology may also be required.

Trade certification is available but is voluntary for Newfoundland and Labrador power system operators.

Control room operators at nuclear power plants require a license from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.

How to immigrate to Canada

If you have experience as an energy worker, you can immigrate to Canada under one of the immigration programs suitable for this profession.

Many of Canada's immigration programs are suitable for energy workers, such as:

• Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand
• Manitoba Skilled Workers Overseas 
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program

For more Canadian immigration programs for energy workers, see here.