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Sprinkler System Installer

(Compulsory certification required). Fabricates, installs and maintains sprinkler systems.

Who Am I?

Do you like variety? Are in good shape? Are you mechanically inclined and are able to pay close attention to detail. Then consider becoming a Sprinkler System Installer.

What do I do?

Sprinkler System Installers fabricate, install, test, maintain, inspect and repair sprinkler systems in industrial operations, department stores, office buildings, hotels, schools, hospitals and homes. Installers frequently work on the same site more than once and routinely perform a variety of tasks encompassing all aspects of installation, service and maintenance. You should be prepared to work to exacting standards, since public safety can depend on sprinkler and fire protection systems.

How do I start?

You can get a jump-start on your future career in the construction trades by checking out construction courses offered at colleges and high schools. These hands-on courses will help you build the basic skills you will use in the construction industry.

While you're still in high school, you can begin an apprenticeship program as a Senior Years Apprentice and earn both high school and apprenticeship credits at the same time. After high school graduation, many Senior Years apprentices continue in regular, full-time apprenticeship programs.

To enter the Sprinkler System Installer apprenticeship program full-time, you must be at least 16, be a Senior 4 graduate, or, as a mature student, have an equivalent academic standing. Applied Math, Physics, English (particularly reading comprehension), drafting and computer knowledge are important subjects to have to enter this trade.

Length of Program

4 levels including three in-school sessions.

How does apprenticeship training work?

In Manitoba, to work as a Sprinkler System Installer, you must be a registered apprentice or a certified journeyperson. You must have a qualified employer who is willing to train you as an apprentice. To register in the apprenticeship program, you and your employer complete an application form together and submit it to the Apprenticeship Branch. Once the application is approved, apprenticeship training begins under the supervision of a certified journeyperson.

The apprenticeship is four levels. The first three levels consist of on-the-job practical experience and some in-school technical training. (Work hours and school time must total at least 1700 hours per level.) Level four is devoted entirely to gaining on-the-job experience. Applicants who have successfully completed related courses of study or work experience may be eligible for advanced standing in the apprenticeship program.

The Apprenticeship Branch arranges your classroom technical training. When you go to school, you pay a small portion of the tuition and are responsible for the cost of any required books and supplies. Most apprentices are eligible for employment insurance (EI) when they go to school.

When you successfully complete all levels of training, and score at least 70 % on your final examination, you receive a Certificate of Qualification confirming your status as a certified journeyperson. Your certificate also has "Red Seal" endorsement that means your trade qualifications are generally recognized throughout most of Canada.

For more detailed information on apprenticeship training in this trade, check the Apprenticeship web site at : http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/aet/apprent/index.htm

How much do I make?

Wage Rate: $34.25 (Base rate, effective Jan. 1, 2010, not including benefits).

Employers provide holiday and vacation pay and may also provide other benefits such as group insurance for health, dental and vision care, retirement packages, and training benefits. The value of the benefits can range from 20% to 30% over and above the basic hourly pay rate. Sprinkler Systems Installers usually work a standard 40-hour workweek. Increasingly strict building code requirements have created job opportunities in this trade. Most work is indoors and is full-time, with opportunities for overtime to meet construction deadlines.

Where do I go from here?

Employers include mechanical construction firms, plumbing contractors, heating and air conditioning companies and building developers.

How do I advance?

With experience in the construction industry, Sprinkler System Installers can advance to supervisory positions or become inspectors. They work closely with other tradespeople including Carpenters, Ironworkers, Concrete Finishers, Electricians, Welders and Insulators. With additional training, they can transfer their skills to other related pipe trades like Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic, Steamfitter-Pipefitter or Plumber.