Education

Certification

Canada has 5 levels of certification for Power Engineers. Continued education, practical experience and an exam are required for each certification level. Each province has its own legislation regulating the requirements for certification.

Standardized test banks used for examinations throughout Canada (excepting Quebec) are developed and maintained by the Standardization of Power Engineer’s Examination Committee (SOPEEC). Visit the SOPEEC website for more information on provincial and standardized certifications.

Opportunity

There is plenty of room to grow in a Power Engineering career path. With the median age of Power Engineers at around 45 and fewer graduates than job vacancies in the industry, there are positions available at every class level across Canada and the demand is only expected to increase.

On completion of a 2-year, full-time program and meeting the requirements to pass provincial certification, an Entry Level Power Engineer (4th Class) can expect to make $25-$30 per hour.  Top 1st Class Engineers can make upwards of $200,000 after years or even decades of training and experience.

The 5 levels of Power Engineering Certifications in Canada

1st Class – Can be considered equivalent to Mechanical or Electrical Engineers in theoretical knowledge with the hands-on operating experience and expertise to be in charge of very powerful boilers.

2nd Class – Act as relief for 1st Class Engineers and provide supervision for both engineers and contractors on site.

3rd Class – Perform a lot of maintenance and monitor the efficient operation of Coal, Natural Gas and Bio-energy boilers.

4th Class – Perform a lot of field and monitoring work.

5th Class – Often in charge of refrigeration plants such as ice rinks.

Below is a list of accredited colleges and recognized training providers across Canada organized by province.