Overview
Contractors and supervisors in pipefitting trades supervise and coordinate the activities of workers classified in the following unit groups: Plumbers (72300), Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers (72301) and Gas fitters (72302). They are employed by construction companies, mechanical, plumbing and pipefitting trade contractors and maintenance departments of industrial, commercial and manufacturing establishments. Contractors may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Establish methods to meet work schedules and coordinate work activities with other departments
Requisition materials and supplies
Resolve work problems and recommend measures to improve productivity
Train or arrange for training of workers
Recommend personnel actions such as hirings and promotions
Ensure standards for safe working conditions are observed
Prepare schedules and other reports
May manage the operations of 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.
Supervise, coordinate and schedule the activities of workers who install, repair and maintain piping systems used for the transmission of steam, heat, water, oil and other liquids and gases in residential, commercial, industrial and other installations
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$62,568
$87,595
$114,708
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
177expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a relevant trade are required.
Journeyman/woman trade certification in a relevant trade is required.
Additional information
- There is little or no intertrade mobility among the supervisors in this unit group.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certifications to practice as Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Contractors and Supervisors of Pipefitting Trades
- Contractors and Supervisors of Pipefitting Trades Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Contractors and Supervisors of Pipefitting Trades
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To work as a contractor or supervisor of pipefitting trades in B.C., you will need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Visit websiteContractors and Supervisors of Pipefitting Trades Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Visit websiteWork Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.