Aircraft assemblers fabricate and fit parts to form aircraft segments which
are then assembled into either fixed win aircraft or helicopters. Aircraft
assemblers are employed by manufacturers of complete aircraft or aircraft
components and by aircraft repair, overhaul and modification companies.
There
are a variety of duties you perform as an aircraft assembler. You refer to
computer-aided designs or diagrams, developed by engineers, to help assemble the
fabricated parts and sections that comprise an aircraft. Work is performed at
benches or on specific parts of the aircraft structure itself. You fasten
components and sections by drilling, riveting, and screwing parts together with
a number of power and hand tools. To achieve specific design quality, jigs are
often used to maintain accuracy during machining and assembly operations.
You
install aircraft sub-assemblies and pre-fabricated parts such as rigging, flight
controls, and aircraft skins. For heavier components such as landing gear,
hydraulics and engines, you use hoists or cranes to help in positioning. Pay for
this work is based on an hourly wage.
Training for aircraft assembly is extensive. As a trainee, you learn about
everything that relates to aircraft assembly. Classroom time provided by the
company is spent learning the theoretical elements of aircraft structure and the
practical application of assembly work. You must successfully complete regular
testing during this period. Once you pass this level, you move into the
production area where you are introduced to all aspects of assembly work.
Given
the broad range of assembly duties involved with aircraft manufacturing, your
on-the-job training can take months. During this period, you are assessed on
your work and are encouraged to pursue fields where you show promise. If you
succeed, you may have your choice of the area in which you want to work.
Supervisory and inspector positions may also be achieved.
Aircraft
assemblers should be flexible with their time as some manufacturers require
shift work.
To be an aircraft assembler, you should be dedicated to the job
and interested in learning everything there is to know about aircraft. A
well-trained assembler should be able to work on any part of an aircraft.
You
should enjoy the physical nature of the work that is sometimes involved. Unlike
the high- volume output of motor vehicle assembly, aircraft assembly demands
that you be careful and exacting in the standards you set for the work.
Producing a safe product is just as important as the need for safety in the
plant. Working around large structures, sometimes with heavy equipment, demands
responsible individuals.
You must also be able to communicate well, not only
with other assemblers, but with supervisors and engineers. Management will
encourage you to provide feedback on the aircraft being assembled as its design
is constantly being refined and improved.
Ambulance attendants include emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and first aid attendants. The are on the front lines of Canada's emergency health care system. They work with police officers, fire fighters, and hospital emergency department personnel. They're the first medical personnel on the scene when there's an accident or other medical emergency. They provide life support care to the sick and injured at the scene of the accident and transport them to hospitals or other medical facilities.
Ambulance attendants work mainly for hospitals and ambulance services. Many industrial, construction and mining companies employ first aid attendants or paramedics to care for workers who are injured or become ill on the job.
This job is physically, mentally and psychologically demanding. Shift work is a normal part of the job. Frequently, you perform your duties under crisis conditions, often in extreme situations, where there is little room for error. In such circumstances, you are making critical life-saving decisions and have to do so quickly and accurately.
You use the latest medical technology to assess the extent of an injury or illness and to manage or treat the patient's condition on their way to the hospital. You are also responsible for taking control of accident scenes in order to protect the patient and to alert other rescue personnel and public bystanders. It is essential that you communicate clearly and accurately with your co- workers, the public and the patient's families, some of whom may be very upset.
Along with the many challenges are the rewards. Ambulance attendants are well respected in the health care system, and you have the satisfaction that comes from knowing that the medical help you provide can make a difference in saving lives.
Potential employers will be impressed with you if you are reliable and cool in a crisis. You should take pride in your work and deal well with other people, especially in conditions of extreme stress. Perhaps most importantly, you need an ability to react quickly and accurately in emergency situations. And you must have a great deal of compassion for the sick and the injured.
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Announcers and broadcasters speak out to us over the radio and television airwaves, informing us of current events in our own communities and around the world. They cover sports, weather, news and community affairs. They can work for privately- owned stations or for public networks such as the CBC.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you may find yourself doing your own research and scriptwriting, even though you aren't a reporter. You gather background information from wire services, data banks, libraries and clipping services. You then prepare a script or rough notes from which you deliver your report.
You work closely with other members of the station's team. In smaller stations, you may also take on the responsibility for sales, administration or marketing.
Be prepared for stress. Deadlines are rigorous, and getting reports ready on time means a constant race against the clock. The broadcast itself can also be demanding. You are pressed to perform well, every time. This means looking after your voice and, in the case of television, your appearance. Both are essential tools of the trade.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you become a local "personality" and make personal appearances at community events. Although you may enjoy this attention, you may have to sacrifice some personal privacy. If you take this in stride, you will enjoy the work. The very nature of the job brings you into contact with all sorts of interesting people.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you are generally paid a salary; wage rates and benefits are all open for negotiation with your employer.
You should be outgoing, enthusiastic, and people-oriented. You also need good communication skills as well as the ability to project a friendly, easy-going image.
Broadcasting is a serious profession. You need the self-discipline to manage your time effectively. You also must have the analytical skills to select quickly newsworthy information from mountains of raw material.
As an announcer or broadcaster you are partly a performer. To deliver the message, you must capture an audience's attention. If you can convey mood and meaning through phrasing, improvised comments or body language, you are a "natural" for this kind of work. You also need the presence of mind to react quickly and effectively when things go wrong. To get ahead, you must be willing to learn more about your work, to take the initiative and to be creative.
Service technicians repair major appliances, such as ranges, refrigerators, washers and dryers. They assess appliance malfunctions, provide an estimate of the costs of repairs, and correct any malfunctions. Service technicians are employed in repair shops, retail repair departments, and in wholesale appliance outlets. Technicians specializing in major appliances may conduct house calls and work out of their vehicles.
As a service technician, you start by talking to customers about the problem. You then examine the appliance, conduct tests with electrical equipment, and refer to manuals to help in your diagnosis. Once the problem has been identified, you determine what parts are broken or defective, and refer to manuals to see how the problem can be fixed. You may use small hand and power tools and soldering equipment to take apart the appliance, replace or repair necessary parts, and put it all back together again.
Depending on where you work, pay in this job can take the form of a salary or an hourly wage. With larger companies, comprehensive benefit packages may also be available. Service technicians work a regular forty-hour week.
The certification you need will depend on which appliances you focus on. Major appliance servicing requires community college experience or apprenticeship training. In some cases, specialization extends to specific types of appliances, such as domestic refrigerators, microwave ovens, or washers and dryers. Appliances are always changing and unless you have an in-house training program, it's up to you to remain current on technological developments. You should be prepared to update your skills as new appliances appear on the market. Upgrading courses are available at local community colleges or through appliance companies if training is not offered by your employer.
To be successful in this business you have to build up your client base. The only way to do that is to build up your reputation.
You must be mechanically inclined to do well in this business. You should be able to understand a problem quickly, diagnose the cause and communicate your assessment clearly to the customer.
Considering that many service technicians make house calls, you should be well- groomed and good in dealing with the public. Being able to organize service runs in an efficient manner is important, especially is you cover a wide territory.
Working with electrical equipment and power tools demand that you pay attention to safety procedures, especially when working in customers' homes.
Aquaculture technicians raise and harvest fish, shellfish, crustaceans and plants in both fresh and salt water. The marine and plant life they grow are sold for food or used to replenish wildlife stocks for recreational or commercial fishing. The majority of aquaculture farms in Canada raise salmon, trout, Arctic char, crustaceans or shellfish. New species being cultivated on a pilot basis are cod, halibut, haddock, and some species of crustaceans and marine plants. Aquaculture technicians are employed by private aquaculture operations, government fish hatcheries and experimental aquatic farms. Many own and operate their own aquaculture farms.
As an aquaculture technician, you keep the aquaculture operation running and you are the first to see and respond to any problems. You raise the eggs and young fish or other types of marine life. You are responsible for feeding the stock and determining how much food is needed. You pay careful attention to the environment in which the fish or shellfish live, adjusting it when necessary. For example, a key task is to maintain optimal water quality. You check the stock for disease and apply treatments when necessary. You also collect and record growth and production data and are involved in the harvesting for distribution.
Another part of the job is to do routine cleaning and maintenance on the facility. You install, operate, maintain and clean pumps, filters and other equipment. You clean and maintain the nets used to hold the fish in the enclosures. You may scuba dive to inspect sea farm operations. You may design and construct pens, floating stations and collector strings or fences for sea farms. If you are working in an operation that sells the fish for consumption, you also slaughter, gut and prepare the fish for market.
In the course of your career, you may become manager or owner of an aquaculture operation, supervising technicians and any others working there. Managers or owners prepare the farm's production schedule and are responsible for managing the day-to- day business of the operation. They maintain financial records and establish market strategies and inventory and quality control methods. They negotiate and oversee the buying of products for the farm's operations. They also deal with government agencies and aquaculture associations, finding out about relevant government programs and the latest information relating to aquaculture.
Aquaculture technicians are paid hourly wages and managers are paid salaries.
Aquaculture technology is more than a job, it's a way of life. You may often find yourself working seven days a week. You need to be reliable, dedicated, and enthusiastic in your approach to problems. It's the kind of work you do only if you really enjoy it and are willing to dedicate yourself to it totally. You need to have an eye for detail and the common sense to recognize what the fish need. The ability to work independently is also important. As an aquaculture technician, you are given a good deal of responsibility and much of the time you are unsupervised.
Aquaculture technicians work both indoors and outside. The work can be physically demanding and includes some lifting and carrying. It is practical work that includes biotechnology, plumbing and the operation and maintenance of fairly sophisticated equipment. It is a new field and the technology is changing fairly rapidly.
To become a manager or owner, you need good administrative skills and know how to deal with people. You also need to be a good planner since it may take two to three years before you can sell the stock you raise.
Most owners and managers or aquaculture operations have worked as technicians. Those without technical training have to work hard to catch up on what they missed.
Applied chemical technicians provide technical support and assistance working in industrial chemistry, chemical engineering, chemical and biochemical research and analysis, and chemical quality control. They usually work with a team of professionals, including chemists and engineers, to improve processes and formulations of chemicals and to ensure that identification, such as the ingredients printed on a shampoo bottle, are correct. An important an expanding area for chemical technicians is environmental monitoring which is in greater demand as concern about the environment grows.
As an applied chemical technician, you can find work in the chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries. You can help in research and development, quality control laboratories and consulting engineering companies. You might also find yourself working in a wide variety of resource production, manufacturing, energy, health, education and government establishments. There are numerous employment opportunities in this discipline.
In this job you may be asked to set up and conduct chemical experiments, tests and analyses. You may operate and maintain laboratory equipment and prepare solutions and samples. You may also be asked to use computers to generate data and graphics for some of the experiments. You may have to keep records for analytical studies. In some cases you may be helping to develop and conduct programs of sampling and analysis in order to maintain quality standards. You may also help to design and make devices for use in experiments. In most cases, you are a salaried employee.
This job will appeal to you if you have an analytical mind, enjoy problem-solving, and are interested in chemistry. You have to concentrate, make close observations, and carefully note and analyze chemical details. Since the field is always changing to make way for more efficient practices, you have to keep learning and updating your knowledge.
One of the satisfying aspects of this job is a strong sense of achievement. You have an opportunity to participate in projects from start to finish. As a result, at the end, you are able to see what has been done and what you have contributed.
Delivery drivers operate light trucks, vans or cars to deliver such items as food products, publications, fast food or prescription drugs. They are employed by many different kinds of businesses including grocery stores, take-out food establishments, flower shops, drug stores, bakeries, dairies, newspaper, dry cleaning establishments and vending machine companies as well as by municipal governments.
In this job, you may delivery goods to businesses, offices, warehouses, and institutions such as hospitals, or private residences. The goods you deliver may be received at loading dock area, at a reception desk or by the client in person.
As a delivery driver for a vending machine operator, you collect coins from vending, video or pinball machines and perform minor repairs as required. Coin-box collectors gather coins from telephone booths and parking meters. Mobile canteen drivers operate trucks over approved routes to sell food and beverages to customers at business establishments or construction sites. Dry cleaning drivers pick up articles from outlets and private homes, deliver them to cleaning plants and then return the items to the clients. Newspaper delivery drivers transport newspapers to news-stands or to neighbourhood locations for pick-up by newspaper carriers.
If you deal with money or other valuable commodities, you may need to be bonded. Some delivery drivers specialize in carrying dangerous goods, or goods of extreme weight. In such cases, you may require a special drivers' licence, allowing you to transport certain goods. There is some paperwork involved since you report your deliveries and the nature of the goods you are carrying.
Customer service is very important in this job. As a delivery driver, you are on the front line, representing the company you work with. Your appearance is therefore important and your attitude towards your customers must be polite and helpful.
Most delivery drivers are in constant contact with their offices. Some of the more progressive companies are installing computers in their delivery vehicles to provide direction to drivers throughout their day.
There is a good deal of mobility between the different types of jobs in this area. Delivery drivers are usually paid an hourly rate, although they may also be paid bonuses or commissions.
You will like this job if you enjoy driving and like working on your own. Employers look for conscientious people who are responsible and independent.
The challenge lies in delivering the products in a timely and efficient manner. You organize a schedule and read maps. You need a good memory to remember addresses and locations so that you don't have to waste a lot of time going over lists and maps for every delivery. A good sense of direction is essential.
You must be observant and be able to process a lot of information quickly. Finding an address and a parking place while making your way through traffic is just one part of your job. Heavy traffic can be very stressful but you have to remain calm, careful and aware of what you are doing.
You should enjoy meeting a wide variety of people. You occasionally will encounter, however, people who are difficult to deal with. The job involves more that just delivering things quickly. As a delivery driver, you are representing your company and you must be diplomatic and courteous at all times.
Dispatchers coordinate personnel and equipment activity using various types of communication. They are employed by police, public works and fire departments, the coast guard, ambulances and other emergency units, truck transport and taxi companies, delivery and courier services, warehouse establishments, service centres, and other types of companies throughout the public and private sectors.
As a dispatcher, you perform one or more of the following duties. You receive, process and transmit information and instructions to coordinate the activities of vehicle operators, crews and equipment, using telecommunications and computer-aided dispatch equipment. You dispatch personnel according to written schedules or work orders, as requested by clients, or as required by emergency situations.
Call-taking and dispatching are two distinct functions you may perform. A call-taker answers calls such as those received by a taxi company or the 911 service, takes down the relevant information and passes it on to those who actually dispatch the drivers. When taking calls, you receive requests for service, emergency assistance or general information. You may also be required to provide first-aid instruction to callers.
Dispatchers monitor the workload and location of drivers. You receive and relay information and instructions, advising drivers of traffic problems, accidents or poor weather conditions. You contact supervisors or other support or emergency personnel such as ambulance or fire departments as required. If you are an emergency medical dispatcher, you may find yourself contacting medical air transport centres to arrange air ambulance transport. As a police dispatcher, you coordinate the police activity and may contact necessary support from the fire, ambulance and public works personnel during emergencies.
As a dispatcher, you may be required to ensure that time sheets and payroll summaries are completed accurately. You may also be responsible for maintaining operator work records, keeping track of mileage, fuel use, repair and other expenses.
There is limited mobility between jobs in this occupational group because specialized knowledge from one job is not always easily transferred to another dispatching job.
Many dispatchers work shifts and they are usually paid an hourly wage.
This is a good job for articulate, intelligent people who enjoy serving other people and who have strong interpersonal skills. You must read, write and speak English, French or possibly both languages fluently. It is also important to speak clearly and calmly no matter what the situation.
You must handle stress well. You should be able to take control of a situation quickly and make the right decisions immediately. You must be able to perform several functions at once and work in a quick and independent manner. Being in good health is important, since regular attendance is vital to the proper functioning of the group of people with whom you work.
Draftsperson prepare accurate and detailed drawings for construction, engineering, manufacturing and other purposes, They are employed by architectural and engineering firms, manufacturers, surveying and mapping companies, and municipal, provincial and federal government offices.
As a draftsperson, you create technical drawings that describe the size, shape, mechanics or function of objects and structures for the use of design, production and construction teams. Although the traditional drafting tools such as boards and pencils are still used, more and more companies are now using computer-aided drafting and design (CADD), a technology which has revolutionized the field.
You prepare drawings, plans, diagrams or layouts based on notes, sketches, calculations, specification sheets and other data. These are supplied by engineers or other professionals. You operate computer-aided drafting design systems. Drawings must conform to specifications. You ensure this by using your knowledge of technical, engineering, architectural or scientific materials, practices and conventions, and by checking drawings for errors. You complete documentation packages and produce sets of drawings which are then checked by an engineer or an architect. You also work with production or construction teams, explaining or adjusting the drawings as work progresses.
You specialize in a particular industry or drafting field through both training and experience. Progress to more senior drafting and supervisory positions is possible through experience. Career opportunities exist in construction companies , architectural offices, in engineering firms, and in municipal offices. There are also new opportunities in the computer graphics industry, particularly in selling CADD systems and client support services. Freelance opportunities may also exist if your possess your own computer-aided drafting system.
Draftspersons may be paid salaries or hourly wages. Many are members of unions, depending on the company.
You will enjoy this work if you are interested in machines, building materials, engineering, architecture, the physical sciences and computers. You will do extremely well if you also have a certain artistic flair and the ability to picture and change shapes and objects in your head.
A good draftsperson is analytical, well organized, neat, interested in accurate measurements, good at details and capable of intense concentration. You also need to have certain amount of patience since a drawing may take days to complete. You must be able to work with other members of the engineering team and be able to speak and write well.
The work can be physically demanding. Sitting at a computer all day can be hard on the back and a strain on the eyes.
Further certification with provincial associations of engineering technicians and technologists, or of architectural technicians and technologists, may also be available, depending on the province.
Construction drillers operate various types of mobile drilling machines to bore foundation holes for buildings, obtain core samples from the earth for geological testing, drill holes in rock for injecting grout, and create blasting holes. Construction drillers work for construction companies or business that specialize in drilling.
A construction driller operates different tracked or truck-mounted drilling machines in order to create holes in rock and ore. For example, you could operate a percussion drill that uses a hammering action to bore blast holes or anchor holes in rock. You use this type of drill if there is not need for precise hole and no concern that the material being drilled will be damaged.
When more precision is required, you use a rotary drill, often with a diamond bit. This type of drilling is used when taking core samples for geological testing or for drilling holes for the injection of grouting materials. You also use this type of system when drilling into structures that could be damaged by the vibrations of a percussion drill.
You sometimes work on small air or hydraulic powered machines to drill smaller holes or on large diesel powered units to drill bigger, deeper holes.
The driller is responsible for driving the drill rig to the work site and setting it up. You operate controls to stabilize the machine and to position and align the drill. It's your job to fasten drill bits and drill rods, adding more rods as the depth of the hole increases. You operate hand levers to control the drilling process and carefully monitor your gauges to regulate air pressure, rotary speed and downward pressure according to the type of rock being drilled. You also observe electronic graph recorders and flow meters that monitor the flow of water going into the hole to flush out debris. Besides monitoring gauges, you also listen to the machine to determine the drilling conditions. The driller is also required to maintain and repair the equipment when necessary.
Your job as a driller is a very specialized one, requiring a great deal of experience to do it well. You must know the various conditions of rock or soil that you are drilling into and be able to choose the right drill for the job. Diamond drill bits are extremely expensive and a careless or inexperienced operator can cost a company thousands of dollars.
You must be in good physical condition and fairly strong to work as a driller. Drilling equipment is heavy and you will be required to do a lot of lifting when changing bits or adding rods. Since a lot of water is used in the drilling process, the job can be very muddy. It can also be very noisy, especially when you are operating a percussion drill in an underground location.
Most of the time you work outdoors, in all kinds of weather, although there are some jobs that have to be done indoors or underground. You often work in remote locations across Canada and around the world. Your may be required to stay away from home for long periods of time.
Your work can be varied and interesting. Each drilling job has its own unique requirements and set of problems. You often work without supervision and must solve problems on your own, using your skill and experience to find the most productive and efficient way of getting the job done.
Drillers can be paid by the hour or by the foot drilled. In exploratory drilling, a driller may be paid by the hour plus a production bonus so that the deeper you drill, the more money you make.
If you enjoy working outdoors, in a variety of locations, this could be a good job for you. You should be the type of person who likes change and doesn't mind spending periods of time away from home.
Drillers must have good mechanical abilities, since you may be required to make your own repairs in remote areas. You must also be self-reliant and dependable. Much of the time you are working without supervision. Your company is depending on you to solve problems and get the job done safely and on time.
Educational assistants work with students who may be visually or hearing impaired or suffer from other physical, mental or sensory disabilities. Working at either the elementary or secondary school levels, they help students cope in the classroom. Also known as teacher assistants, they may be assigned to work with one particular child, with a group of children within one classroom, or several students throughout the school. Educational assistants commonly work for school boards but are also found in special treatment centres where educational programs are offered. They work under the direction of a teacher or principal.
As an educational assistant, you provide extra support to the children who need it. This might involve helping a child with a physical disability get dressed to go outside, or it might mean repeating what the teacher says in sign language. You do whatever is necessary to help the child learn. This includes the use of alternate teaching methods for those students who might benefit from them.
The daily activities of an educational assistant are varied. You supervise the students in the classroom, in the school yard and on field trips.
In the present school system, educational assistants work on contracts that extend for ten months of the year while teachers are paid an annual salary. In some cases, educational assistants have their own labour union which new employees are obligated to join. Language requirements depend on the school board.
Some training is conducted on the job, under the instruction of the teacher responsible for the class, a special education teacher or other consultant. Increasingly, however, school boards prefer to hire trained assistants. Additional training is given on professional development days and other special in-house training days.
You will enjoy working as an educational assistant if you are genuinely committed to helping children learn. You must understand and be sensitive to the obstacles facing the children in your care.
You will need a broad background to feel comfortable as an educational assistant, including knowledge of child development as well as some teaching experience. Special skills, such as sign language, or fluency in other languages, are also useful, depending on the type of client and place of work.
Another challenge of this occupation is assisting children who have serious behaviour problems. Your preparation in this area should be thorough. Experience in non-violent crisis intervention is also an asset.
You must be a team player who accepts the direction of the teacher in the classroom, or the instructions of other professionals responsible for the particular child or children under your care. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential as are energy and enthusiasm for the job.
This is sometimes a physically demanding job. For example, working with disabled children often involves moving and lifting them.
Electronics assemblers and fabricators assemble and fabricate electronic equipment, parts and components. They are employed in electronic manufacturing plants that produce such products as telephone sets and switching equipment, computer equipment and systems, radar detection devices, electronic controls and systems, and various communication devices.
As an electronic assembler, you work from specified drawings to solder and manually assemble electronic components onto circuit boards. Initially, you place the components on the board by hand and proceed to prepare the circuit board.
Preparing a circuit board may require different types of assembly. Some assembly work may demand working with automatic and semi-automatic machines to position and solder components onto circuit boards. Most assembly work involves working with small power or hand tools. Once your acquire experience, you may also be expected to inspect and test your own work and identify any defects.
Electronics manufacturers are demanding higher qualifications as the electronics field expands. Certification in electronic assembly is available at the college level. This certificate course offers you a range of experience with the various techniques of electronics assembly.
Training for this position is split between formal classroom time and on-the-job experience. Courses in soldering techniques and component identification are vital to any electronics assembly job and are specific to an individual manufacturer's standards. Other courses taught include static control and safety. In addition, new product training is an ongoing element of this business.
Some manufacturers may prefer to hire you directly from high school and train you in the company's standards, procedures and products.
Pay in this job is based on an hourly wage. Though most manufacturers work a regular day, some businesses may demand shift work.
Since the work requires precision, you should have good eye-hand coordination and be able to concentrate for long periods of time. Though the work may be repetitive, you should be able to pay attention to detail and meet production deadlines. Since many of the components used in the assembly work are identified by colour, you must be able to distinguish between colours.
As companies develop more of a team-oriented approach to this work, you must be able to communicate with other members of your team. You also should be safety-conscious and well- groomed, especially since you are working with fine components.
Educational assistants work with students who may be visually or hearing impaired or suffer from other physical, mental or sensory disabilities. Working at either the elementary or secondary school levels, they help students cope in the classroom. Also known as teacher assistants, they may be assigned to work with one particular child, with a group of children within one classroom, or several students throughout the school. Educational assistants commonly work for school boards but are also found in special treatment centres where educational programs are offered. They work under the direction of a teacher or principal.
As an educational assistant, you provide extra support to the children who need it. This might involve helping a child with a physical disability get dressed to go outside, or it might mean repeating what the teacher says in sign language. You do whatever is necessary to help the child learn. This includes the use of alternate teaching methods for those students who might benefit from them.
The daily activities of an educational assistant are varied. You supervise the students in the classroom, in the school yard and on field trips.
In the present school system, educational assistants work on contracts that extend for ten months of the year while teachers are paid an annual salary. In some cases, educational assistants have their own labour union which new employees are obligated to join. Language requirements depend on the school board.
Some training is conducted on the job, under the instruction of the teacher responsible for the class, a special education teacher or other consultant. Increasingly, however, school boards prefer to hire trained assistants. Additional training is given on professional development days and other special in-house training days.
You will enjoy working as an educational assistant if you are genuinely committed to helping children learn. You must understand and be sensitive to the obstacles facing the children in your care.
You will need a broad background to feel comfortable as an educational assistant, including knowledge of child development as well as some teaching experience. Special skills, such as sign language, or fluency in other languages, are also useful, depending on the type of client and place of work.
Another challenge of this occupation is assisting children who have serious behaviour problems. Your preparation in this area should be thorough. Experience in non-violent crisis intervention is also an asset.
You must be a team player who accepts the direction of the teacher in the classroom, or the instructions of other professionals responsible for the particular child or children under your care. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential as are energy and enthusiasm for the job.
This is sometimes a physically demanding job. For example, working with disabled children often involves moving and lifting them.
Electronics assemblers and fabricators assemble and fabricate electronic equipment, parts and components. They are employed in electronic manufacturing plants that produce such products as telephone sets and switching equipment, computer equipment and systems, radar detection devices, electronic controls and systems, and various communication devices.
As an electronic assembler, you work from specified drawings to solder and manually assemble electronic components onto circuit boards. Initially, you place the components on the board by hand and proceed to prepare the circuit board.
Preparing a circuit board may require different types of assembly. Some assembly work may demand working with automatic and semi-automatic machines to position and solder components onto circuit boards. Most assembly work involves working with small power or hand tools. Once your acquire experience, you may also be expected to inspect and test your own work and identify any defects.
Electronics manufacturers are demanding higher qualifications as the electronics field expands. Certification in electronic assembly is available at the college level. This certificate course offers you a range of experience with the various techniques of electronics assembly.
Training for this position is split between formal classroom time and on-the-job experience. Courses in soldering techniques and component identification are vital to any electronics assembly job and are specific to an individual manufacturer's standards. Other courses taught include static control and safety. In addition, new product training is an ongoing element of this business.
Some manufacturers may prefer to hire you directly from high school and train you in the company's standards, procedures and products.
Pay in this job is based on an hourly wage. Though most manufacturers work a regular day, some businesses may demand shift work.
Since the work requires precision, you should have good eye-hand coordination and be able to concentrate for long periods of time. Though the work may be repetitive, you should be able to pay attention to detail and meet production deadlines. Since many of the components used in the assembly work are identified by colour, you must be able to distinguish between colours.
As companies develop more of a team-oriented approach to this work, you must be able to communicate with other members of your team. You also should be safety-conscious and well- groomed, especially since you are working with fine components.
Electronic equipment service technicians are employed by electronic service companies, retail and wholesale distributors and the service departments of electronic manufacturers. They install, troubleshoot, maintain and repair a variety of household and business equipment such as televisions, radios, video cassette recorders, stereos, photocopiers, and computers. Due to the increasing complexity of electronic technology, most technicians specialize in a particular type of equipment.
There will always be plenty of work for those who service and repair the electronic equipment used in homes and businesses. After all, everything is electronic in today's world.
You may find yourself working in a fully equipped shop to which items are brought for service or you may go out to the customer's home or office. If you call on customers you have to rely heavily on your knowledge and skills to solve the problem since you can only bring a limited set of tools with you.
You are usually paid an hourly wage, though it is possible to paid a salary. Some companies pay you a bonus based on the number of calls you complete.
You will enjoy this job if you like hands-on work in electronics. To do it well, you have to be a logical thinker who enjoys problem-solving and you need to be a stickler for detail. It's a constantly changing field, so your have to update your knowledge and skills regularly, often on your own.
When it comes to making service calls, your people skills are extremely important. You have vital role to play in establishing a positive company image since you may be the only one who deals with the customers.
Electronic business equipment such as photocopiers can be very heavy, so if you service office equipment you need to be strong enough to move it. When working with some types of equipment, you need a good sense of hearing and the ability to recognize small differences in colour to be an effective troubleshooter.
* The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists
285 McLeod
Street
Second Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K2P 1A1
Tel. (613) 238-8123
Electronic equipment service technicians are employed by electronic service companies, retail and wholesale distributors and the service departments of electronic manufacturers. They install, troubleshoot, maintain and repair a variety of household and business equipment such as televisions, radios, video cassette recorders, stereos, photocopiers, and computers. Due to the increasing complexity of electronic technology, most technicians specialize in a particular type of equipment.
There will always be plenty of work for those who service and repair the electronic equipment used in homes and businesses. After all, everything is electronic in today's world.
You may find yourself working in a fully equipped shop to which items are brought for service or you may go out to the customer's home or office. If you call on customers you have to rely heavily on your knowledge and skills to solve the problem since you can only bring a limited set of tools with you.
You are usually paid an hourly wage, though it is possible to paid a salary. Some companies pay you a bonus based on the number of calls you complete.
You will enjoy this job if you like hands-on work in electronics. To do it well, you have to be a logical thinker who enjoys problem-solving and you need to be a stickler for detail. It's a constantly changing field, so your have to update your knowledge and skills regularly, often on your own.
When it comes to making service calls, your people skills are extremely important. You have vital role to play in establishing a positive company image since you may be the only one who deals with the customers.
Electronic business equipment such as photocopiers can be very heavy, so if you service office equipment you need to be strong enough to move it. When working with some types of equipment, you need a good sense of hearing and the ability to recognize small differences in colour to be an effective troubleshooter.
* The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists
285 McLeod
Street
Second Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K2P 1A1
Tel. (613) 238-8123
Elevator constructors and mechanics assemble and install escalators and elevators. Their work may involve electric or hydraulic elevators, installations to carry freight or passengers, or moving walkways and similar types of equipment. They are employed by companies specializing in elevator construction and maintenance.
The job consists of setting the rails, building the cab form and installing elevator control mechanisms and other related equipment. You begin by studying the plans to determine the layout of the installation. You then install the hoisting machinery and equipment, counterweights, car platforms and the elevator or escalator chassis. The next step is to build the elevator car frame using hand and power tools. This, in turn, is attached by cable to the counterweight. Finally, you install the control system and all related wiring and test its operation. If you encounter any problems along the way, you must either repair or remove the defective parts.
Maintenance and repair work is a major part of your duties. You must keep an up-to-date log book detailing all repairs and checks done on an elevator so that anyone who works on that elevator knows what has been done and what problems may recur. Maintenance and repair assignments also require frequent contact with the public. Establishing a good professional relationship with your regular clients is very important.
Virtually all elevator mechanics are members of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) which determines working conditions and salaries on behalf of its membership.
You must be able to read and understand blueprints and technical specifications. You should also be able to follow written instructions. Although a number of electronic devices help monitor speeds, weights or heights, you must still be capable of doing similar calculations on your own. In addition, you must keep the maintenance log books for each elevator absolutely clear and understandable.
Some of the greatest demands will be physical. The equipment is heavy and often difficult to handle and you must be physically fit in order to do the work. Once the elevator is set up and ready to function, you must carefully test its operation using various meters and gauges.
You may be on call and must be ready to respond at a moment's notice. This is what makes the job interesting. There is a lot of variety to the work. Every job is different even though some of it may only involve lubrication and greasing. Your services are essential to the functioning of offices and apartment buildings and you can take pleasure in being of service to the public.
You will enjoy this job if you are mechanically inclined and understand the way machines work. You will do well at it if you are methodical, industrious and willing to work hard for long periods of time. You must be extremely safety conscious both on the work site and with regard to the people using the elevators you service. You cannot take any risks or overlook any details. If a problem occurs, it must be dealt with as quickly as possible.
Mechanical skills are not enough. You must also be people-oriented. Good interpersonal and communication skills are important in maintaining relations with your fellow crew-members and with members of other trades. It is vital that you maintain good relationships with your clients since customer service is a critical part of the job.
There are specialized courses offered by the union and the elevator industry. This apprenticeship training usually lasts four to five years.
Employment counsellors help people to find work that is best suited to their needs, skills and interests. As a career counsellor, you might find yourself working in a Canada Employment Centre or government social agency. You might also work in a high school, college, university or for a large company experiencing lay-offs and reorganization. Employment counselling is a growing field with plenty of new opportunities.
Employment counsellors provide information on educational and other entry requirements to various jobs. They assist their clients with the job search process, the resumé writing, and job interviews. They also advise people on training programs. They use assessment tools such as interest inventories and general aptitude tests to find out about the abilities and interests of the people they help.
You can specialize and work with groups such as youth, the disabled, or residents of correctional institutes. You might even work for an insurance company encouraging injured workers to return to the workforce once their injuries have healed. Some employment counsellors have successfully opened their own consulting or guidance businesses.
Employment counsellors are normally paid a salary. Language requirements vary according to the people you serve.
You will thrive in this position if you enjoy working with and helping other people. You should be open and highly motivated. Since most of your time is spent working one-on-one with your clients, you must be comfortable dealing with all types of people.
This job requires exceptional communication skills, strong analytical and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to be persuasive. You work with your clients to help them to determine realistic goals, and then encourage them to plan how to achieve these goals. You also need to be creative in finding ways around barriers to employment. Employment counselling is challenging yet very rewarding.
You must be well organized to keep up with the vast amount of information on educational and training opportunities, financial assistance, as well as government and social programs. You also need to keep detailed records on each client. You may also need to keep detailed records on each client. You may be required to work closely with social or government agencies that refer people to you. Also, you may find yourself working with local businesses to set up job placements.
Most of those working in the field have a college diploma or bachelor's degree in the social sciences or social work.
Environmental technicians are technical support people who investigate, assess and monitor pollution levels in the air, water, and soil. They are sometimes referred to as pollution control technicians, if they work in waste-water treatment. They are employed by large industrial companies, environmental consultants, and provincial and federal government departments.
As an environmental technician, you can specialize in performing either air, water or soil analysis. The analysis combines elements of agriculture, biology, chemistry, meteorology and engineering.
You must first decide where you are going to take your samples. For example, you may gather gas samples from ventilation systems and smokestacks, or you may collect polluted seawater or industrial waste-water from lakes and streams located near factories. You may also set up equipment in the field to monitor changes in the environment.
Your next step is to analyse the substances and data you have collected. Your goal is to determine the characteristics of the substances and what pollutants they contain. Some of these tests may be conducted in the field using portable equipment, but most are done in laboratories. As an environmental technician, you earn an hourly wage.
This job will interest you if you are resourceful, inquisitive and familiar with environmental problems and the related regulations. A lot of what you do involves working with instruments and equipment. Consequently, you need to hae good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. You also need to know how to use various sensitive instruments.
Many aspects of this work, such as digging, climbing, or wading through water to gather samples, may be physically challenging. Exposure to unpleasant smells and to potentially dangerous substances are also often part of the job.
Environmental technicians must enjoy studying the natural and applied sciences. Since many of the reports you prepare require statistical analysis, you need at least a modest aptitude for mathematics and computers. The ability to communicate well with other technicians, engineers and scientists and with the general public is also essential. If you develop managerial skills you may eventually supervise other technicians.
The two-year college programs tend to focus on the practical, while the additional third year focuses on analysis and interpretation. Graduates from three-year programs tend to find jobs faster than those with only two years since they have a broader selection of jobs to choose from. They also tend to be promoted more quickly. A broad understanding of various types of air, water and soil pollution and the willingness to relocate will also enhance employment prospects.
Executive assistants coordinate administrative procedures, public relations, research and analysis for members of legislative assemblies, government ministers, deputy ministers, corporate executives, committees and boards of directors. They are employed in governments, private corporations and associations.
Corporations are using executive assistants far less than they once did because of the current need to cut down on staff. However, executive assistants still play a valuable role assisting members of the federal and provincial parliaments and senior managers within the government.
As an executive assistant, you support your employer's activities. Your duties vary widely depending on your own experience and expertise, and the responsibilities and specific interests of your employer.
Executive assistants are a source of information and advice. You ensure that the information your boss receives is timely, accurate, and relevant. You review incoming mail and prepare outgoing correspondence. You must read through and analyse incoming memoranda, submissions and reports quickly. You also coordinate the preparation, production and submission of summary reports on a range of issues of importance to your boss.
As executive assistant, you often decide who gets to see your employer. You set up meetings and prepare the agenda. You may also find yourself meeting with officials, private individuals, or special interest groups to explore issues, and assess and recommend various courses of action. If you are at a senior level, you establish, coordinate and modify administrative policies and procedures for your employer's office.
Executive assistants may start working for lower level managers or junior members of legislative assemblies and work their way up to positions with deputy ministers and ministers.
Essentially, you need to be available when your employer is available. As senior managers and members tend to work long hours, you will also be expected to work long hours, evenings and weekends. Executive assistants are paid annual salaries.
You do the leg work for your employer, so you need to be outgoing, affable and able to work well with others. The key to success in your job is understanding human nature and how to obtain cooperation.
You should be articulate and possess good writing and editing skills. It's fascinating, high pressured and time consuming work. To do a good job, you must be conscientious, flexible and committed.
You need to be trustworthy and loyal, but you also hae to be able to think for yourself, providing your employer with additional insights on any issue. You also need to be assertive. Because many people may want to meet with your employer, you hae to be able to say no.
Employers look for people who have a real interest nd knowledge of the area in which they are applying to work. For example, if you are applying for work as an assistant to a member of parliament, you should have a good knowledge of current Canadian and international events, and a familiarity with Parliamentary procedures. Involvement in political activities would also be an asset.
Fashion buyers purchase women's, men's and children's clothing for retail and wholesale companies. They buy lingerie, footwear or fashion accessories, such as jewellery. Fashion buyers are also responsible for the merchandising operations of retail establishments. They are employed by department stores, retail chains, independently-owned stores, and wholesale distributors.
As a fashion buyer, you are usually responsible for all the purchasing in a particular department of the company for which you work, within a specified budget. You develop a buying plan that takes into consideration the department's customers, fashion trends, potential suppliers and prices. You are responsible for making sure that the department's sales and profit goals are met.
You keep abreast of current trends and styles by analysing market reports, talking to consultants, and attending fashion shows, and keeping in close touch with your customers. You identify and develop the fashion themes and items for each season.
You maintain contacts with suppliers, negotiating prices, payment and delivery. You ensure that order invoices are completed appropriately and oversee the distribution of merchandise to ensure adequate stock levels.
You are also responsible for how the clothing is displayed. You decide on the decor, signs, special lighting and fixtures such as stands, shelves and mannequins. You work with the managers and sales people in the store, explaining the reasons behind the fashions and colours that hae been chosen.
In some companies, you may be responsible for advertising. You decide on what should be featured, the medium to be used, and when the ads should be run. You then present the package to the people in the advertising department for their implementation.
You are paid a salary which may include a yearly bonus based on your sales performance. Progress into more senior buying positions or in other parts of management is possible with experience. As soon as an opening comes up, you become a floor manager for two to five years, then an assistant buyer. If you are especially entrepreneurial, you may eventually wish to open your own store.
You will find this job exciting if you love beautiful clothing. You will do well if you are a decisive and highly organized person who wants to live a challenging and fast-paced life. The work is suited to confident, outgoing people. You must feel comfortable negotiating with suppliers, dealing with staff in the stores and solving problems. You must be prepared to do a lot of travelling both inside Canada and internationally.
The work calls for taste, creativity and a good eye for colour and coordination. The merchandise you select has to match and reflect the store's fashion preference. At the same time, you need to be analytical, well organized and good at basic arithmetic. Computer abilities are an important asset. The job also requires a high degree of honesty and integrity. You cannot accept gifts from suppliers since your primary responsibility is to do the best for your own employer.
People in this profession work on fishing boats that catch fish and other marine life. They work for companies, for others who are self-employed, or they may own and operate their own fishing vessels.
An important part of this job is to prepare nets, lines and other fishing tackle, and operate the fishing gear needed to catch marine life. You clean, sort and pack fish in ice and store it in the hold. You repair nets, splice ropes and maintain fishing gear and other deck equipment. Other responsibilities include cleaning the deck surfaces and the fish hold, and handling mooring lines during docking. You may also prepare and cook meals for crew members.
If you are the skipper, you decide where your boat will fish and plot a course to get there using navigational instruments. You direct fishing operations and supervise deckhands. You also record all fishing activities, as well as the weather and sea conditions. A key task is to estimate the costs of operations and plan the budget for each fishing season. You establish a plan for marketing the catch and keep records of all financial transactions. You may transport fish to processing plants for fish buyers. On the larger boats, the skippers have a crew to help them; on the smaller boats, the skippers may do everything themselves.
The working conditions in the fishing industry can be quite rough. Crew quarters on most fishing vessels are cramped, and you need physical stamina to work the fishing lines and traps for many hours a day.
As a skipper, you have the added responsibility of making enough money to support your crew, your own family, and of ensuring that your boat is always in good repair.
This job will appeal to you if you enjoy physically demanding work on the open water in all types of weather. You have to be prepared to travel and spend time away from home. If you are a member of the crew, you should be able to follow directions quickly and accurately. To do well, you need to be interested in working with details, processes, machines, and techniques.
Like any independent entrepreneur, skippers need to be self-starters. In this position you need leadership ability, good communication skills and an interest in the workings of the fishing industry. You need to be decisive in the face of extreme conditions and able to handle stress. You also need some mathematical skills, good visual perception and the ability to work with your hands.
Traditionally, there have been no specific educational or training requirements for those who want to fish professionally. The industry, however, is becoming increasingly sophisticated. The best way to get into it is to work on a fishing boat for a year or two. If you find that you are interested in pursuing this career further, there are all sorts of courses you can take in the off season to develop your skills.
Fish and fish products inspectors make sure that fish and fish products conform to production, storage and transportation standards set by federal and provincial governments. They are employed in federal and provincial government departments and in private sector businesses such as fish processing plants.
In this line of work you visit fish and fish product plants, warehouses, public storage freezers, and shellfish farming operations to make sure that they are well constructed and clean, and that work practices are hygienic. For example, your ensure that workers wear hair nets and that no one has a communicable disease. Each factory also employs its own inspector who makes sure that the rules are followed and that the appropriate records are kept. The government inspectors work with them, sharing their knowledge and passing on the latest technological developments.
Inspectors test the fish and fish products by tasting them. They also take samples of the products, ingredients and water and test them at the lab for bacteria, dangerous chemicals, excessive salt, or illegal food additives and preservatives. In some offices, it's the inspectors who do the lab work. In others, it's done by lab specialists.
You also carry out spot checks on imported fish and fish products. It there's something wrong, the company responsible is then put on a mandatory inspection list which means their products must be cleared before they can be distributed in Canada. Mandatory inspections continue until the company's products pass four consecutive inspections.
Federal fish inspectors belong to one of two unions: the Public Institutional and Professional Scientists or the Public Service Association of Canada. Provincial fish and fish products inspectors belong to unions for provincial government employees. Fish inspectors are paid annual salaries.
This job will appeal to you if you have an interest in the sciences, especially applied chemistry and microbiology. You will enjoy it if you like working with others and meeting new people. You need to be diplomatic and yet persistent in applying the regulations since your decision may cost someone a lot of money.
Inspectors are always studying the latest techniques and technologies in fish and fish products processing and packaging. To be a good inspector, you have to be very knowledgeable and observant. You must be able to tell if the employees in a plant are actually following the rules consistently, or have cleaned up the plant simply for your inspection. This ability comes with experience.
Fish and fish products inspectors must also be able to develop a fine sense of taste and smell, because each inspection is based on their assessment of the product's flavour and odour.
Floor covering installers lay down carpet or resilient floor coverings in homes, offices and industrial, commercial or institutional buildings. They work with anything from plush, colourful weaves for private residences to industrial strength coverings for factories and offices. Resilient floor coverings include hard substances such as vinyl, wood, ceramics, cork or linoleum. Many installers specialize in one form of covering and focus on a single type of market. Some installers are self-employed while others work for construction companies, floor covering sub-contractors and carpet outlets. Salaries vary considerably from region to region and from company to company.
Before laying down any covering, you inspect, measure and clean the surfaces to be covered. If necessary, irregularities are sanded down and holes filled in. You then mark out the lines and patterns to be followed. You cut out the floor covering material according to the dimensions specified by the plans or the client's instructions. In some cases, there is an under padding of some kind to which the floor covering is attached, and this is cut out first. In the case of carpeting, you fasten different sections together using a stitcher, a seaming iron or bonding tape. The carpet is then shifted and stretched into position and tacked into place.
There are many different ways of installing resilient floor coverings. Generally you glue them to a foundation material, following a pre-determined pattern. Some of these floor covering materials are designed to be purely decorative. Others have more specialized purposes, such as to deaden sound, to absorb shocks or to create air-tight environments.
In this job, you must be ready to do a lot of bending and kneeling. You should also be prepared to carry heavy loads, such as rolled up carpeting, tools, tiling, planks and so on. Apart from that, the work is not physically demanding. There are, however, some intellectual challenges since you must be able to calculate the amount of material you need. You must plan each cut or layout very carefully so as not to waste material.
You have to deal with certain job-related problems and hazards. Some of the materials used can be dangerous as are some of the tools used to apply them. The fumes from various kinds of glue, fibres from certain types of carpet, and dust from patching and priming mixtures are all potential health hazards. You may, therefore, have to wear protective clothing and a respirator.
You find yourself often dealing with architects or contractors to obtain materials, solve technical problems or resolve scheduling conflicts. You are accountable for the materials used and the hours worked. Whether you are an independent operator or an employee, you must keep a careful record of your work.
One of the major attractions of this job is that it involves putting the finishing touches on a construction project. In addition, the trade is expanding into challenging new areas such as plastics and other synthetic materials. New specialty areas are emerging, such as plastic welding techniques that completely enclose rooms to make them air-tight and germ-free. These techniques are used in hospital operating rooms and in special laboratory storage rooms. You may also expand your skills to include covering walls and ceilings as well as floors.
To do well in this job you need to be serious and self-disciplined. Employers and clients expect you to have the ability to focus on every job. Since many of the coverings are very expensive and require great care in cutting and shaping, employers look for installers who are careful and methodical workers. You also need to be a good planner and understand how to manage time. Aside from being physically fit, you need good hand and eye coordination. You should also be able to work as part of a team which requires good communication and interpersonal skills.
Flight attendants greet passengers, serve food and beverages, and provide any other services required to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers during an aeroplane or helicopter flight. They are employed by airline companies.
Though your role as a flight attendant is service-oriented, safety precautions are of primary concern. Prior to each flight, you check all emergency equipment, confirm that all the necessary supplies are stocked in the service area and on food carts, survey the cabin of the aircraft for any problems and conduct a pre-flight briefing with the rest of the crew.
Once passengers have been boarded, you are responsible for demonstrating emergency procedures before take-off. Once in the air, you serve food and beverages to passengers and provide other in-flight services, such as offering blankets, earphones, and movies to ensure the passengers' comfort. Upon reaching the destination, you help passengers disembark.
Pay for this position is based on an hourly rate. You work a minimum number of hours a month and there is usually a maximum number of hours beyond which you are not allowed to work for safety reasons; these limits are set by the airline. You also receive a benefits package with your job.
Training for this position is demanding and the standards are exacting. Airlines provide their own formal training period lasting approximately six weeks during which you will learn everything about the job. Most of the training period is dedicated to safety issues. You learn how to conduct emergency procedures, use emergency equipment, and administer aviation medical procedures. You are required to achieve high standards on any testing offered during this period. Emergency training is an ongoing element in a flight attendant's job and it is expected that you will keep up with any changes in standards.
Also taught during this period are first-aid courses, customs and immigration procedures, and how to address the public. As well, you become familiar with the food-service aspect of the job and with other elements of customer service.
For most air carriers in Canada, bilingualism is a distinct advantage. With experience, you may be given a choice of which routes you want to fly and which times you prefer to work. If you are successful in the job, you may even move into a supervisory role.
More than anything, you have to get along with all types of people. Serving passengers in an environment such as an aeroplane can be demanding work. You must be able to cater to all needs with patience and efficiency. Working in conjunction with other flight attendants, you need a team-oriented approach. On the other hand, you still need the initiative to work independently and the organizational skills to complete your work in a timely fashion. Being presentable is a must.
It is important for you to show confidence in your work. In an emergency, passengers will look to you for help and guidance. At such times, you have to be able to respond promptly and communicate clearly.
Food and beverage processing workers perform a variety of duties in a plant. The processing of the food or drink itself is done automatically by different machines. However, abut half of the tasks to e completed by the processing worker are manual in nature. Processing workers are found in all food in all food and beverage processing plants including dairies, bakeries and breweries.
Typically, in a food or beverage processing plant, cartons of product must be loaded on and off rolling racks or conveyor systems and then stored for delivery. Raw materials need to be brought to where they are loaded into the machines. Often, you must first pack the product into boxes or bag before it can be moved anywhere.
Apart from these material handling roles, you are also responsible for keeping your work area clean. This is important for reasons of safety and hygiene. In addition, you also participate in quality control by conducting visual or weight checks at key points along the production line.
You are taught how to change settings such as temperature and tension on the equipment, and are expected to make these minor types of adjustments when necessary. In some cases, you are responsible for maintaining and cleaning the equipment you work with.
Processing workers are trained on the job. During the training period, which typically lasts for several weeks, you acquire all the skills necessary to do a good job. You are paid hourly wages and, in some plants, you must join the union within 60 days of starting to work.
Employers are looking for team players who work well with others. You must be dependable and committed to the job. Also, many food processing establishments operate in the evenings and on weekends, and new employees must be prepared to start out working these shifts. Most importantly, employers are seeking to hire those who display a willingness to work and to learn on the job.
The work is physically demanding. You need to be strong enough and agile enough to move in and around the conveyors and other equipment. Even though lifting aids such as forklifts are used to move the finished product and materials, much of the work is done with physical strength. Sometimes, you must be able to lift bundles of 15 kilograms or more. In some environments, workers wear hearing protection because of high noise levels.
Forest technicians perform technical and supervisory functions in forest research, the management of forest lands, and activities related to forest conservation and protection. They are employed primarily by federal and provincial governments and by private companies in the forestry industry.
As a forest technician, you conduct and supervise forest inventory cruises, survey s and field measurements following accepted scientific and operational procedures. You prepare or assist in the preparation of forest management and harvest plans using photogrammetric and mapping techniques. You may plan and supervise construction of access routes and forest roads. You might also implement and supervise operations involving site preparation, planting and nurturing of young trees. Finally, you may plan and supervise forest harvesting operations.
If you work for the government, you monitor the activities of logging companies and contractors, and enforce regulations such as those concerning environmental protection, the use of forest resources and fire safety. You could supervise tree nursery operations. You might also provide technical support to forestry research programs in areas such as tree improvement, seed orchard operations or experimental forestry research.
You are likely to work under the direction of a senior forester or forestry scientist. You are normally paid a monthly salary.
You can use your position as a forest technician as a stepping stone to occupations in natural resource and wildlife management or parks management.
Forest technicians engage in active, often vigorous work and share concern for the natural environment. You often work independently. Thought you frequently work alone, you must also be able to work as part of a team made up of foresters, scientists, loggers and administrators in government and the private sector. The reports you write require good written and verbal communication skills.
Computers and computer systems are considered to e important tools in modern forest management. Computerized geographical information systems are used especially in the mapping of forests. You should enjoy and have some aptitude for the sciences, mathematics and computers.
There are professional associations in each province affiliated with the Canadian Council of Technologists and Technicians. Although membership is voluntary, it is strongly recommended.
The better educated you are in the sciences, in research methods and in statistical analysis, The better chance you have of being hired. Summer work related to research and reforestation may also improve your chances. Work in this area is often seasonal.
Foundry workers are involved in making metal castings for a variety of items including automobile, aircraft and other machine parts, agricultural tools, electrical components, train wheels and ship propellers. They are employed in metal casting facilities referred to as foundries.
To create a metal casting, you place a pattern, an exact model of the finished metal casting, in a moulding box and then pack or press sand around the pattern. You remove the pattern from the mould and then pour molten metal into the mould to produce a metal casting.
If you are a manual mould maker, you make the sand moulds by hand. As a machine mould maker, you set up, adjust and operate various machines that shape sand moulds. The molten metal is hand ladled into the mould or it is poured by a machine.
Cores are placed inside the moulds to form the hollow spaces in the finished metal castings. You can make the cores by packing sand, coated with a binder, into coreboxes. The cores are then sometimes coated with protective materials and baked. You can also make the cores on a machine, by setting up, adjusting and operating various pieces of equipment during the process.
Die casters operate machines that use permanent metal moulds in order to make a large number of castings. In this job, you select and melt the metals, set up the dies used to create the castings, pour the molten metal, and produce a casting.
Other related positions include melters who operate furnaces that melt the metal used in the casting process; chippers and grinders who finish castings by removing excess metal with pneumatic hammers and power abrasive wheels; and furnace operators who control the furnaces in which casting are heated to harden them or otherwise improve their physical properties.
There is some mobility between jobs in this occupational group. Mobility between employers, however, is limited. Many collective agreements or company policies require new employees to start at entry level positions so transfers from another company are not encouraged. With experience and the right skills, you can advance into positions such as castings inspector, department supervisor, technical advisor, cost estimator, designer or plant supervisor. Most foundry workers belong to unions, and are paid an hourly wage.
You will enjoy this job if you prefer working with machinery and tools. Employers look for steady, alert workers who are team players and who follow instructions. An inquisitive mind that enables you to learn on the job is a definite asset. The best foundry workers are dedicate workers.
This is a large field with many opportunities for training and advancement. For example, die- casting is a little more skilled and little cleaner than other metal-casting positions.
The work is hard and foundries can be noisy, dirty places. They are often hot, especially near the melting units. Manufacturers are eliminating, however, many of these discomforts with improved ventilation systems and air conditioning.
The injury rate is higher in foundries than in other manufacturing industries, but improved safety practices are making jobs in this area safer. Generally, coremaking and moulding are the least dangerous jobs, while melting and finishing have the highest accident rates. Safety plays an essential role in foundry work. If you keep your mind on safety, you should not have an accident.
To be a foundry worker, you need to be in good health with average physical strength, good eye- hand coordination and some manual dexterity. Avoid this work if you have respiratory, heart or back problems.
* The American Foundrymen's Society
505 State Street
Des Plaines,
IL, USA 60016
Tel. (708) 824-0181
Power linepersons build and repair overhead and underground power lines used to conduct electricity from generating plants to consumers. Linepersons are employed by electric companies and other utilities. In some companies, they are known as powerline maintainers. Generally, they are paid an hourly wage
As a power lineperson, you erect and maintain poles and towers. You will work with overhead and underground power lines and cables, insulators, conductors, lightning arrestors, switches, transformers and other associated equipment. You splice, solder and insulate conductors and wiring. You inspect and test overhead and underground power lines, cables and auxiliary equipment, using electrical test equipment. You also install and inspect street lighting systems.
This is a physically challenging work that will appeal to you if you love the outdoors. Often you are called on to locate and fix damaged lines late at night, during a storm, or in the middle of a blizzard.
You use hydraulic buckets to work high up on a pole or a tower. You have to do a lot of climbing where you may have to pull heavy equipment up after yourself. There are times when you work in confined spaces, such as trenches and tunnels. You may also get to do a lot of travelling, especially if you work for a large company.
The job can be dangerous. Sometimes you will be working with live lines that may be transmitting as much as five hundred thousand volts. You have to be alert. You also have to be able to think for yourself and work with others as a team.
Physical fitness is an asset. A summer job that will get you used to the outdoors and physical work will help you prepare for this job.
Plastics processing machine operators set up and operate machines that mix, press and mould plastics into products. Your first step on the job is to load the machines with the materials to be moulded, mixed or pressed. You may sit by the conveyor and assemble or pack products into containers. You also unload the finished product from conveyor belts and place it in the warehouse.
An important part of your job is to check for defects through visual and weight checks. These quality control duties are done at various points in the production process. Other monitoring responsibilities include making sure that the temperature and pressure of the equipment is correct. Your responsibilities may include keeping the machines clean and in a good state of repair.
Statistical control process equipment is used in some plants and makes the machine operator's job much easier. In the future, more and more plastics processing plants will be using this type of equipment.
Plastics processing machine operators are paid on an hourly basis. Some plants are unionized and new employees must join the union within 60 days of starting work.
Employees are looking for people who are team players and who enjoy working with others. You must be dependable and willing to do a good job. You must especially be able to stay alert and concentrate on what the machines are doing at all times.
This is physically demanding work. Plastics processing machine operators are required to lift and move products with or without the use of lifting aids.
You have the opportunity of learning how to operate more than one type of equipment. You need to be an enthusiastic learner. Training periods vary between a few weeks and a few months depending on the complexity of the machinery.
The job will change as the process becomes more automated and less labour intensive.
Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures and other plumbing equipment. They work on plumbing systems in all kinds of buildings from residences to factories, offices and hospitals. Many plumbers are self-employed. They can also work for plumbing companies, maintenance departments in factories of construction companies. Plumbing is a trade which offers a considerable degree of variety. In recent years it has expanded into a number of new areas, the most notable being environmentally sound waste and water disposal systems.
When preparing to install or repair a plumbing system, you must first read the blueprints or drawings relating to the project. In this way, you can determine the layout of the system, the water supply network and the waste draining systems. Once the pipes are installed, it is your responsibility to test the pipes for leaks using air and water pressure gauges.
Plumbers tend to specialize in either residential or in commercial/industrial work. You could develop a secondary specialization, such as renovations or waste management. If you are self-employed, you must negotiate your own contracts, prepare estimates and keep records of your assignments.
With the background and training of a plumber, you can also become a pipe fitter, working on hot water heating systems. In addition, this job prepares you to become a gas piping installer, involved in the installation of piping for natural gas transmission.
As a plumber, you are paid an hourly wage which is regulated by the union and is dependent on the experience you bring to the job.
Plumbing can be fairly demanding both physically and mentally, depending on your area of specialization. If you are involved in renovation work, for example, you tend to do a lot of stair climbing, removal of old and heavy pipes and clearing away of debris. Some drainage pipes are made of concrete or are lined with steel. Regardless of your specialty, you do a lot of lifting and carrying of pipes as a plumber.
The mental effort required of a plumber varies according to the assignment. Some jobs will involve the simple installation of a few lengths of pipe. Other jobs involve complex calculations and planning, such as when you work in specialized environments like hospitals. You may also have to produce detailed reports of your work.
Each new assignment is a challenge. You may be called upon to work under difficult conditions, with different materials and for different objectives. No two jobs are ever exactly alike. Also, as the plumbing trade evolves and grows more sophisticated, new and more specialized types of work are emerging.
You might find yourself using computer-assisted welding techniques for small pipes. You may work with special piping used in the fabrication of microchips, or install oxygen and medical gas in hospitals. One important emerging specialization is in sewage and water treatment, as well as the storage and flow systems for toxic waste.
To be a successful plumber, you must be disciplined and responsible. You should be able to concentrate on a single task for long periods of time, taking the time to do it right. You are responsible for the quality of your work and, if necessary, you must be able to work without supervision. Typically, you will have to visualize concepts and entire systems based on your understanding of drawings and blueprints.
Interpersonal skills are an important element of a plumber's success. You must have the skills necessary to deal with fellow team members, clients or other tradespeople. In addition, you must be able to communicate clearly with your clients, letting them know what you have to do and what you need to get the job done. On completion of the project, you must also have to give them a report of what you've done.
Plumbing should attract you if you are mechanically inclined. It should also appeal to you if you are looking for a challenge and are willing to embark on a never-ending learning process. You should be trustworthy and serious about the work and aware of your responsibilities to both your clients and your employer.
Printing press operators set up, operate, and maintain sheet and web-faced presses to print text, illustrations, and designs on paper, plastic, metal, and other materials. Press operators are found in printing companies, combined publishing and printing establishments, and other industries with in-house printing departments.
As a printing press operator, you are responsible for assessing all the elements that go into a printing job. Setting and adjusting plates, cylinders, and dampeners comprise the initial set up process. You then determine the appropriate ink tone and density by mixing inks and adjusting accordingly. Once this is complete, a test run of the job is required to make any fine adjustments to the quality of the product. The print job must be even and consistent before a full run is undertaken.
In some cases, you may be working closely with others who are responsible for supplying materials to the press while you are operating it. Otherwise, it may be your responsibility to monitor the stock of materials used on the press and make sure you don't run out of paper, metal or ink.
Depending on the size of the printing company in which you work, you may be paid hourly or by salary. You will probably work a standard forty-hour week, though in some cases, shift work may be required.
You are expected to manage your time well and to organize printing jobs in such a way to ensure that deadlines are met. Some publications, such as newspapers, depend absolutely on this. At the same time, you must be patient and careful to ensure a quality product.
Training for this position tends to be hands-on. You will probably begin by working at support staff jobs such as those of feeder and paper handler until you fully understand the operations of the press.
Apprenticeship programs are available if you are interested in pursuing this career. Another option is to attend a college level diploma program for graphic printing technicians. This latter choice offers a better chance to move into press operator positions quickly.
You will need mechanical ability to do this job. Though the industry is moving towards computer-based technology, the need to understand the way a machine operates, be it mechanical or electronic, is vital.
Patience is an asset since you are expected to achieve exacting standards in the print quality of every job. You must be able to handle high levels of stress at times when short deadlines must be met. You may have to cope with hot conditions working near press machinery and the work may be repetitive at times. Although teamwork is essential, you should also enjoy working independently since most print shops or departments rely on one press operator to perform the print functions.
Property administrators manage investment properties and real estate on behalf of their owners. Property administrators, or property managers, as they are also known, are in charge of public or other residential housing units, office buildings, investment property, condominiums or other rental properties. They work in real estate and property management companies, property development firms and for all levels of government. Each property administrator has a portfolio of properties that he or she manages. With time and experience, the portfolio grows in size and value.
Your duties as a property administrator are numerous and varied. You look for tenants to fill your buildings, negotiate leases, process rents, coordinate major repairs, pay invoices, develop budgets for different accounting periods, and file reports to your clients.
You also deal with a variety of suppliers who help to maintain the building. These might include snow removal services in winter and landscaping companies in the spring. You must also deal with maintenance and repairs for which you have to establish good working relationships with service providers such as plumbers and electricians.
As a property administrator, you control the finances associated with the rental properties under your care. This includes collecting rents, paying invoices and preparing detailed budgets and financial reports on the status of the portfolio. You also review rental applications and complete credit checks on potential tenants. Your biggest challenge is to juggle these diverse activities over several buildings in several different locations.
Property administrators are paid a salary. Probation and language requirements depend on the policy of the organization and the community where you work. Your working hours can be quite long as you may be required to attend tenants' or condominium owners' meetings which are normally held in the evenings. You are also on call to deal with emergencies such as fires, accidents or floods.
There are several professional certificates available to property administrators who have several years of experience, who meet the necessary standards and who have completed the required course work. Professional designations include the Certified Property Manager awarded by the Real Estate Institute of Canada and the Real Property Administrator awarded by the Building Owners and Managers Association of Canada.
With the exception of British Columbia, there are no provincial licensing requirements.
To be a good property administrator, you need solid communications and interpersonal skills. You must also display considerable professionalism since the job puts you in contact with lawyers, engineers, architects, suppliers, clients, tenants and insurance companies.
It is important to know the law and how it applies to property because some conflicts between tenants and property managers are settled in court. In addition, city by-laws may influence, limit, or prohibit certain kinds of building or renovation projects. To solve problems such as these, you need a detailed understanding of all laws and regulations relating to property.
You also need to demonstrate common sense to help you deal with and resolve many of the difficulties that arise, including emergencies and the inevitable complaints from tenants. You must be determined and tactful since one of your duties is the eviction of tenants.
* the Building Owners and Managers Association of Canada
20 Queen Street
West, Suite 2012
Toronto, Ontario M5H 3R3
Tel. (416)596-8065
* the Canadian Real Estate Association
320 Queen Street, Suite 2100
Ottawa,
Ontario K1R 5A3
Tel. (613) 237-7111
* the Real Estate Institute of Canada
2200 Lakeshore Blvd. West, Suite
305
Toronto, Ontario M8V 1A4
Tel. (416) 253-0803
A rehabilitation aide work under the supervision of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or recreational therapists to assist with the care of patients. There are three types of rehabilitation therapy. Occupational therapy focusses on how injured or ill people function and on their ability to return to work. Physiotherapy stresses strength, mobility, balance and decreasing pain - the physical aspects of a disability. And in recreational therapy, patients are encouraged to take part in leisure activities, helping them to socialize and build self-esteem.
The role played by the rehabilitation aides varies from day to day; each department, whether physiotherapy, occupational therapy or recreational therapy, has its own specialized way of helping a patient recover from illness, injury and disability. Your primary role is to help the therapists provide patients with therapy but your duties vary. You may book appointments and do clerical work. You transport patients down to the therapy area. You maintain, repair and modify equipment. You also ensure that the therapy area is safe and uncluttered.
If your work involves assisting an occupational therapist, you help patients learn to feed themselves, dress or wash themselves. As a physiotherapist's aide, you help patients take walks or help bedridden patients with their routing exercise programs. As a recreation therapy aide, you help organize a range of activities from playing cards to singing or crafts.
The work is physically demanding and you may also find it emotionally draining. Since you help some people who are seriously ill, you must be able to detach yourself from their problems.
Hospitals are using rehabilitation aides more and more. They work on shifts to support the therapists during the busiest times of the day or night, and are generally paid on an hourly basis.
If you are outgoing and have a real interest in people you will do well as a rehabilitation aide. You must be flexible in how you adapt to new situations. You also have to work with different personalities since you come into close and frequent contact with a wide variety of staff and patients. You must also be able to communicate with the patients in the language in which they are most comfortable. You need to follow the directions of the rehabilitation therapists carefully. There may be other to whom you have to answer for the work you do. You need good judgement and organizational skills to cope with the many demands that are made on you.
Canadian colleges do not offer programs in this area, and at the present time, there is no professional organization of rehabilitation aides. Your own abilities and attitude are the key to this job. There are no national or provincial requirements for rehabilitation aide, and hospitals that hire you will give you training on the job.
Rubber processing machine operators tend the machines that mix, press, mould and cure rubber for use in other manufacturing processes. The processed rubber is then sold to other manufacturers as an intermediate product or is made into a finished product such as tires, hoses or boots.
Rubber processing machine operators typically follow a recipe in preparing each of the rubber compounds with which they work. First, you weigh the component materials. These might include natural and synthetic rubber, carbon black or other pigments, fillers, processing oils and chemicals.
You load all the materials into the machine in the correct order and begin processing. Typically, you have to wait for a certain amount of time to elapse or for a particular temperature to be reached before proceeding to the next step. During a particular shift, you may be required to make several separate batches of each specific compound. You then monitor two large rolling mills that produce slabs of processed rubber tailored to specific sizes for resale.
You must be aware of the temperature of the rubber compounds and the pressure that is being exerted on them. You try to ensure that each batch meets the specifications exactly in terms of size, colour, and other physical and chemical properties.
Operators learn to use more than one type of machine. It can take anywhere from two weeks to two months to train an operator on each machine.
Workers should be willing to be trained. This is essential whenever new technologies emerge and have to be learned on the job. Although ventilation and dust collection systems are in place, in rubber processing plants, you still get dirty, especially when carbon black is used in the production process.
Rubber processing machine operators are paid hourly wages and may or may not work in a unionized operation.
To do this job well you must be willing and able to learn new processes. You must also be a team player and enjoy working with machines. Since you have to adjust temperature and other settings, employers look for those who are mechanically inclined.
You must be able to follow instructions and procedures to the letter. The materials must be fed into the machines in the exact order prescribed by the chemist or compounder. You must have an ability to concentrate and pay attention to the smallest detail as there are dangerous aspects to this job.
In a more computerized environment, you monitor the activities of the machine from a control panel. Thus, a working knowledge of computers is a major asset. Despite the use of automated equipment, this is still a physically demanding job. You handle heavy materials, with or without the assistance of lifting aids.
Sawmill machine operators work in sawmills and planing mills. They operate, monitor and control a variety of lumbermill equipment that saws timber logs into rough lumber and then saws, splits, trims and planes the rough lumber into dressed lumber.
Sawmill machine operators use various machines in order to cut timber logs into rough lumber which is then sawn or planed into different sizes of dressed lumber or is sawn or split into shingles or shakes. Among the machines are head saws, circular saws, edgers and trimmers.
A head say cuts round logs into squared-off timber called cants which are then cut into boards. You examine the logs for grain, quality, condition and size to determine the best lumber cuts. From a panelboard in a control booth or from equipment consoles, you operate the conveyor system that moves lumber to and from the saws. You adjust the log carriage speed and the blade settings according to the log you are cutting.
Edgers are saws that smooth the edges of rough boards and cut them into specified widths. You adjust the saw blades to accommodate various board thicknesses and produce specified widths. A trimmer saw cuts boards into various lengths and can also be used to cut out defects in boards.
In most cases, you are required to perform routine maintenance on your machine such as cleaning, lubricating and performing minor repairs. At the end of your shift, you use an air hose to clear sawdust and wood particles from your machine. You also inspect saw blades and notify a supervisor or millwright if they need sharpening or replacing.
Modern technology has greatly reduced the amount of physical work involved in operating sawmill machinery. In some mills, the head rig operator sits in an air- conditioned, soundproof booth working a control panel. Logs are scanned and the saw blades are automatically adjusted. In older sawmills, you may do more physical handling of lumber and work in noisy conditions at extreme temperatures.
Whether you are working in a technologically advance mill or a less modern one, you have a great deal of physical and mental stamina to do the job well. You may be working a ten-hour shift and process thousands of logs during that time. You must be alert and concentrate on the job. The long hours at the controls and the degree of concentration required can make this job both mentally and physically tiring.
Your job as a sawmill operator is a fairly skilled one. You must be aware of various sawing patterns and how to get the maximum value out of each log. A careless saw operator can cost the company a lot of money. As a result, you will need several years of sawmill experience before you can move up into a head sawyer's position.
Training for a sawmill machine operator is cone on-the-job. In some cases, the manufacturers of the sawing equipment provide training courses on their machines. You are generally paid an hourly wage which can be fairly high depending on your skill and experience. Shift work is usually required and you must be prepared to work nights and weekends if necessary.
You will do well in this job if you are conscientious and quality-minded. Your employer depends upon you to get the most value out of each log that you cut. The decision on how to cut each log is up to you and you must rely on your skill and knowledge to make the right cuts. An understanding of the lumber market is an asset.
Sawmill machine operators should be mechanically inclined and enjoy working in an industrial environment that can at times be noisy and dirty.
Since you are working with large machines with extremely sharp blades, you must naturally be a safety-minded person who can concentrate on your job, while staying alert to potential dangers.
Secretaries perform a variety of clerical, administrative and other related duties in offices throughout government and the private sector.
A secretary today has more opportunity for professional development and increased income than ever before. With the appearance of computers, the job has undergone dramatic changes in the last ten years. As a result of these changes, secretaries have had to develop sophisticated technological skills. In recognition of this, the work secretaries do is now known as office administration.
A good part of the work may take place on the telephone, answering and routing calls or relaying messages. You are also required to greet people, handle their enquiries and escort them to the appropriate person.
You may be responsible for scheduling and confirming appointments and reminding your employer of these arrangements. This could involve dealing with travel agents to arrange trips and make reservations.
You may write letters and other material, by following general guidelines. Preparing informational for various meetings and taking minutes are all part of the job.
You open and distribute incoming mail and other material. You coordinate the flow of information and operate electronic mail systems. You also set up and maintain filing systems for records, correspondence and other material including confidential personnel records.
Secretaires use word processors, microcomputers or electronic typewriters. Working from rough handwritten copy or dictating machines, you produce finished versions of a wide variety of documents. Although shorthand is still used, it is giving way to machine dictation.
As you develop seniority, you will do less typing and clerical work and more general administration. Your job may even come to resemble that of an office manager, establishing procedures and supervising other workers. You may choose to specialize in a particular type of office work.
This occupation can open the doors to many other avenues in the administrative and management fields.
Secretaries are usually paid an annual salary, unless they have been hired on a short- term or part-time basis, in which case they are paid a weekly or hourly fee.
This occupation is known by a variety of names, including: support staff, office service support and administrative assistant. Executive secretaries and stenographers are included in this group.
The best secretaries have excellent people skills. You should be friendly and outgoing. You should also be polite but assertive since you have to deal with many different types of people and cannot let them control your activities.
Strong decision-making skills are important for secretaries at all levels. When you are faced with competing demands, the ability to organize your work is a definite asset.
Employers want people who look and act like professionals. Other important qualities are reliability and discretion, especially if you are working with confidential information. To succeed in this profession, you need to show initiative, act in a professional manner and adapt to the changing office environments. The ability to learn and use new office technologies makes a big difference.
Office support people are critical representatives of the companies that they work for and thus are expected to reflect a positive image of that organization.
Security guards patrol and monitor industrial, commercial and other property to protect against theft and vandalism, to maintain order and enforce regulations. They also control access to establishments and some public events. Security guards are employed by either private security agencies or by an organization itself. Regardless, they work in a variety of locations, including retail stores, art galleries and museums, commercial and industrial companies, hospitals and institutions, country clubs and government buildings.
The types of duties that you will be expected to perform will vary according to the sites you are working on. You may be employed as an airport security guard, an armoured car driver or guard, a bodyguard, gate attendant or a crossing guard.
It is your job to observe and report everything that happens on your shift. This may entail enforcing regulations and maintaining order in an establishment or at an event. You could control access to the event, issue passes and direct visitors. It is very important that you provide accurate information about incidents or suspects so that charges can be laid by the authorities. You are often required to write detailed reports on your activities, recording your observations.
Your duties as a security guard could involve working days in a public establishment, such as a mall or art gallery, guarding against theft, shoplifting, vandalism or other disturbances. On the other hand, you may work nights, patrolling an industrial site, guarding offices, or equipment. At an airport, you might perform security checks or passengers and luggage. Security guards also work on armoured trucks, driving and guarding money and valuables.
Security is a 24 hour a day field and your shifts could be fixed or rotating, depending on your site and your employer. You are generally paid an hourly wage for work as a security guard. Wages begin just above minimum wage and increase with experience.
The varied hours and different locations at which a security guard works sometimes make it difficult to plan a social life. One week you could be patrolling a shopping mall during the day, and the next week you could be at a factory, guarding machinery at night.
Although a lot of security work is not physically demanding, you may be required to spend long hours on your feet. You could be required to patrol an area at a fast pace or to run to report unusual situations
Much of security work is routine and becomes monotonous over time. You can spend long hours standing or sitting in an area with very little to do. Despite this, you have to stay alert. Something unexpected could happen at any time and you are called upon to respond to a situation, or give an accurate description of an incident or a suspect.
A large part of your job involves dealing with people. If you are working in a public place, such as small or an airport, you are called upon to help people in a variety of ways, such as giving directions, answering questions or perhaps getting aid for someone who is ill. This often involves enforcing regulations and maintaining order in sometimes difficult situations. In this job, you are asked to deal with everything from theft to intoxicated patrons.
Much of the time you are working with little or no supervision. You are expected to handle situations in a professional manner, and make your own decisions.
Although much of the work is routine and may at times be difficult, the job an also be rewarding and satisfying. You often get a chance to meet and help people.
The work hours and locations may be varied and you will gain experience working in different situations.
Most security companies offer on-the-job training. You will start as a rookie or trainee, and from here you can work your way up to more responsible positions and progress to a supervisory position.
Sometimes the experience gained as a security guard can be used as a stepping stone to a career in police work, the military or to a job in a correctional institution.
Modern security companies are looking for employees with good people skills. You must be able to get along with people and communicate well. Security guards do not have the same enforcement powers as police officers. You must rely on your communication skills rather than your authority in order to control a difficult situation.
Many times, the first person that someone sees when they enter a building is the security guard. You may be the first impression that a person gets of a company. It is therefore important to present yourself confidently and professionally. You must also be neat and well-groomed.
To be successful as a security guard, you have to be self-motivated and be able to work on your own, with little or now supervision.
You may be called upon to guard valuable objects or expensive equipment. Honesty and reliability are therefore important qualities for a security guard.
Service rig operators set up and control truck-mounted drilling and hoisting equipment used in the servicing of oil or natural gas wells. They are employed by drilling and well servicing contractors, petroleum producing companies and well testing companies.
It is very expensive to maintain a large drilling rig at an oil or gas well site. It is often much more economical and practical to use a smaller, mobile service right that come to the site after the initial drilling has been done. Service rig crew are used to complete well drilling operations and to clean and maintain the wells. They also perform duties related to closing down wells that are no longer in use. Service rig operators work on truck-mounted derricks that they drive to the well sites.
After arriving at the well site, you operate controls that raise the derrick and level the rig. With the aid of a helper, you thread cable through pulleys in the derrick and connect the hydraulic lines using hand tools. You also install pressure-control devices onto the well-head. You attach clamps to the top of tubing or pump rods and operate controls that pull them out for salvaging or repair work.
You operate controls that hoist and lower sections of tubing or drill pipe into the well and add more lengths as you go deeper. You also monitor depth and weight indicators. You drill through cement, plugs or other obstructions in the well and operate controls that clean and scrape the casing that lines the drill hole. Part of your job is to lower tools into the well that will recover broken tubing or pump rods. You also lower pressure-recording equipment and other instruments into the hole for testing purposes.
In closing a well site, a service rig operator lowers and detonates explosive devices to break up well castings. You operate hydraulic equipment that pulls the casing from a well that is to be abandoned. You also mix cement and pump it into a well hole in order to seal it. A service rig operator's job can be both physically and mentally demanding. You must be physically fit and fairly strong to operate the rig and to add or disconnect sections of drill pipe with wrenches and other tools. You work outdoors at remote drill sites in all kinds of weather. Travelling is a huge part of the job and you could find yourself working away from home for long periods of time.
A starting position as a service rig operator is known as a roughneck; with experience and training, you proceed to become a derrickhand and then a driller and tool pusher. The average time frame for this on-the-job training is one to five years.
Generally, you don't work a regular eight hour day. You are required to get the job done on schedule whether it takes two hours or eighteen. Service rig operators are usually paid by the hour. If you do well, you can work your way up o well paying jobs such as rig manager or tool pusher.
A good service rig operator should be able to get along with people and work as part of a team. You may also enjoy this job is you like to travel and don't mind being away from home from time to time.
If you enjoy mechanical challenges, this may be the job for you. As a service rig operator, you may have to do some of your own maintenance, if you are at an isolated posting. Since you may be required to do some calculations, a background in math is helpful to you on the job. In addition, common sense and good, safe working habits are necessary for you to perform your work well.
Sewing machine operators run single- or multiple-needled sewing machines to hem, gather, reinforce, or attach fasteners to textile products. They may work with clothing, gloves, hats, shoes, tents, tarpaulins, awnings and upholstery. Sewing machine operators work with a variety of materials, including cloth, leather, canvas, nylon, polyvinyl chloride and fur.
As a sewing machine operator, you work in a factory, sitting in a straight-backed chair. You hand-feed material under a needle, controlling the star, stop and speed of the machine with a foot pedal or knee lever.
Bundles or garment pieces are brought to you from the cutting area and you assemble them into a finished product. This is usually done on an assembly line, where you perform a single operation on one part of the garment.
There are many types of machines in a sewing plant, such as blind-stitch, button- hole, and monogram machines. Generally, you specialize on one machine, performing one particularly job such as attaching elastics, sewing gloves, stitching hems, or making sleeves.
New technology is transforming the sewing industry. Modern factories have electronic machines, which require the operator to stand and feed material into them. The machine automatically performs the sewing operation, quickly and accurately, with very little help from the operator.
You don't have to be physically strong to be a sewing machine operator, but you must have stamina to sew continuously for hours at a time. Some machines require you to sit or stand for long hours, with only short breaks.
You must also have good hand-eye and foot coordination, since you feed the fabric under the needle by hand, and guide it, watching closely as you control the machine with your foot or knee.
The garment business is seasonal and fashions can change quickly. Layoffs may occur from season to season. You'll increase your chance of steady employment by learning a variety of skills on different machines, since there is always a demand for skilled sewing machine operators.
Some factories pay an hourly rate, starting close to minimum wage, but most pay on a piece-work basis. Piece-work means that you get paid for the amount you produce. In that case, it's important to work quickly since the more you produce, the more you earn. You must also be careful, however, as your work is inspected and sent back for corrections if it is not satisfactory. Redoing a job will cost you money. Because of collective bargaining agreements, unionized shops usually pay higher wages than non- union ones.
To be successful as a sewing machine operator, you must be conscientious. You must also be able to follow instructions precisely. This work requires an eye for detail. You must be able to get along with people, since you are usually part of an assembly line, working closely with others.
Good concentration skills are very important, since you are required to do the work carefully and quickly, often in noisy surroundings. There may be hundreds of sewing machines running at the same time.
You must have some pride to do this kind of work. There's satisfaction in doing something neatly and producing a good piece.
Sheet metal workers construct, assemble, install or repair sheet metal products. They work on eavestroughs, heat and air ducts, coping, siding and other related products used in the construction industry. They are employed by special fabrication shops, sheet metal manufacturing and construction companies. Salaries for sheet metal workers can vary according to the size of the company, their level of skill or union status. As a sheet metal worker, you work closely with the engineers involved in a specific project. You study the drawings or sketches which describe the work to be performed. Once you understand what is to be done, you lay out, measure and mark the sheets of metal according to the drawings. You can cut and shape the metal using shears, brake presses, or drill presses. For some special jobs, you may even use laser cutting equipment. To fit the different pieces together, you can use a riveter, a welding torch or some other type of joining equipment. You then grind or buff the seams and joints, and flatten any rough surfaces you may find.
As you develop your skills, you may find yourself specializing in a number of different areas, such as ornamental work (copper roofing, steeples), weatherproofing, air conditioning or systems balancing. Over the last decade many sheet metal workers have found themselves working with plastics when constructing certain air systems.
New technology is transforming sheet metal work. Factories are making greater use of computer-generated designs. As a result, you may find yourself using computers to draft your own designs. Also, laser cutters are now quite common and are replacing slower and less accurate ways of cutting sheet metal.
A sheet metal worker's job is demanding both physically and mentally. Despite increasingly sophisticated hoists and cranes, sheet metal workers still have to do a lot of lifting. Since you often work out of doors, you have to contend with the hazards of wind and rain, as well as with the extremes of freezing cold or broiling heat.
Each building and each project is a new challenge. Although many sheet metal components are prefabricated, many more have to be made to measure. It is up to you to ensure that every piece that is specified is ready, available and appropriate to the requirements of the job. This means that you must shape the pieces from scratch. To do so, you must be able to conceptualize the problem and visualize the solution in the shape of a sheet metal component.
The physical, intellectual and technical requirements of the sheet metal trade are demanding. These demands are offset by the pride and satisfaction of seeing the results of your work. Many sheet metal workers view their trade as a craft and liken it to cabinet-making; you may not always notice the precision or the care, but the quality is there nevertheless.
This job is well suited for those who like to work along. Usually, you have little supervision in carrying out your assignments. It is also likely that you have only occasional contact with the public. On the other hand, you probably work closely with other tradespeople assigned to the same job.
To do this job well, you must be physically fit and possess well-developed manual skills. You should also have the visual and mental capacity to be able to design and create pieces on your own. Sheet metal work is a very competitive field that requires initiative and ambition to succeed. Employers want dependable, hard-working individuals who can work with steadiness and skill.
Shippers/receivers ship, receive and issue goods. They are employed in warehouses, retail and wholesale establishments, industrial plants, mine and construction stores, and other commercial and industrial organizations.
When packing goods, you have to think about how to prevent damage through rough handling, dampness, excessive heat or freezing. You need to know the stacking strength of boxes. You also need a good sense of geography to know how to prepare a shipment for different kinds of weather and temperature.
When the packing is finished, you attach identification tags and shipping instructions. An important part of the work involves preparing bills of lading, invoices, requisitions and other documents either by hand or on a computer.
When goods come in, you check the accompanying invoices or packing slips to make sure that the right quantity has arrived. You also make sure that the goods are undamaged. You then oversee the loading and unloading of goods using forklifts, hand trucks or other equipment. You unpack the goods and send them to the appropriate storage area or department.
Shippers/receivers may requisition supplies or goods. Some maintain a current supply of materials themselves, issuing or shipping them as needed. You may also assist in taking inventory of these goods. Many shippers/receivers have internal record-keeping systems using a computer or a manual filing system.
In larger warehouses, shippers/receivers may move on to supervisory positions. They are paid an hourly wage. In some organizations, workers are unionized.
The way you pack and present products and how quickly you move them can have a significant impact on your company's customers. As a result, your employers will expect you to understand the vital role you play and carry it out in a responsible manner.
You will do well in this job if you are systematic, well organized and pay attention to detail. You need strong communication skills to coordinate your activities with customers, suppliers, end users, truck drivers and other transporters. You also need the writing and mathematical skills required to prepare documentation, run computer systems and count products accurately.
You have to learn about the product and understand its characteristics so you can pack it properly. This will also enable you to recognize the product even when someone asks for it by a different name than the one commonly used. Shipping and receiving can also be physically demanding work.
You can learn most of what you need on the job but additional courses will improve your skills and help you get ahead. Many companies are willing to promote those who show ability and interest.
Skin care and make-up consultants assess and recommend to clients skin creams or lotions and make-up to improve or enhance skin tone, colour, and texture. Skin care and make-up consultants are employed at beauty salons, retail establishments, image consulting companies or modelling agencies. They may also be found working independently.
In this job, you analyze a client's skin, determine what products or colours are appropriate, demonstrate a few options, and recommend a program for the client to follow. You should know how to treat various types of skin and have a thorough knowledge of the products you use. You should also keep informed about new product developments and ensure your customers use safe products.
The hours can be long and you must be ready to work some evenings and weekends. Your pay may be based on a commission, an hourly rate, a salary, or the type of job performed, depending on the establishment with which you work. Customers may also give you tips. Some retail outlets establish quotas for the number of clients you are expected to serve.
Skin care and make-up consulting is a service and to do it well you have to sell your skills to potential clients. Skin care and make-up consulting is highly competitive. You have to build a strong clientele, establish loyalty and encourage repeat business.
You are expected to step directly into a position with a minimum of preparation. You will receive training, however, if you are to use a new product line. Many consultants become familiar with one or two product lines and promote them before being hired.
One way of getting into this line of work is to approach a cosmetics company and ask to be trained in their product line. Another is to become involved with direct sales of products and operate independently. These two operations do not provide as much theoretical knowledge, training or practical experience about skin care and colouring as do schools, but they allow you to enter the field more quickly.
Training seminars are a necessary feature of skin care and make-up training consulting. New products, styles, and techniques are always appearing and consultants are expected to know about them. Some training may deal specifically with selling strategies.
The field of skin care and make-up consultants calls for independent, motivated, confident people who enjoy working with the public. In dealing with the sensitive issue of image, you must be discreet with your clients and sincere about the products you support. You have a responsibility to be honest about a client's appearance or skin and be candid about what the best solutions available to the customer are. Though success depends on an aggressive approach towards sales, your main goal should be to earn your clients' trust and thus generate repeat business.
Obviously, you have to practice what you preach. You cannot earn the confidence of clients if you are not well-groomed yourself. If you specialize in make-up consulting, you need a creative eye and a strong colour sense. It is also expected that when you identify more serious skin problems that you cannot solve, you will refer your clients to appropriate medical care.
Telecommunications equipment technicians install and maintain the communications systems that link our homes and workplaces. They play an increasingly vital role in a world that technology is constantly shrinking.
This job involves dealing with teletypes, fax machines, mobile radios, cellular telephones, computer-to-computer linkages, and other communications equipment. You may be installing and maintaining these devices on location in offices and homes. You may be working at a maintenance depot or in the operations centre of a telephone and telecommunications company.
You begin an installation by consulting plans, manuals and technical specifications. Then, you inspect the premises and work out an installation plan. Using power and hand tools, you put wiring and connectors into place, and then install and test the equipment, using a variety of measuring devices.
You must also respond to service calls when equipment breaks down. You may be the only representative of the communications company that some clients ever see, so public relations is a big part of the job.
You will probably be working for one of the large telecommunications companies and be paid an annual salary. If you find yourself working as part of a construction crew, you may be paid on an hourly basis.
The work can be physically demanding as you may need to climb poles or ladders to complete an installation. You may also find it mentally challenging. Often, technical problems will be tough to pinpoint. To be a good troubleshooter you need a combination of technical and analytical skills. And when vital equipment is "down", you have to make your repairs quickly.
Computer software is an increasingly important element in modern telecommunications. Much of the "solid" equipment of the past has been replaced with programmable devices. This rapidly chancing environment presents you with a valuable opportunity to learn new skills.
You must enjoy working with the public. You may even establish close working relationships with some clients. People will depend on you to keep their equipment up and running.
Apart from being dependable and energetic, you need both technical ability and interpersonal skills. You also have to work under a variety of conditions, usually without supervision. At the same time, you need the team skills required to share knowledge with other technical experts.
Most importantly, you must have a strong commitment to customer service. You need initiative and a commitment to technical excellence. That's what it takes to solve technical problems and keep equipment performing to specifications.
Tilesetters use ceramic, marble and quarry tile to cover interior and exterior walls, ceilings and floors. They also use mosaics to construct a protective or decorative finish. They may cut or shape the tile themselves or form prefabricated tile sections for quick installation. Tilesetters can be independent operators or work for construction companies and tile contractors. Tilesetters work in the residential, commercial, and institutional/industrial sectors. They may choose to specialize; some tilesetters become experts in tiling hospitals while others focus on custom design work for residences or offices.
Tilesetting begins with an examination of the blueprints or project specifications by the contractor. With instructions about the job, the tilesetter examines the surface to be covered and plans the work accordingly, measuring and marking the work area, assembling materials and mixing the required compounds.
Tilesetters are involved in new construction and in renovation. Before installing new tile, you must remove any old tile, grout and adhesive using chisels and scrapers. The surface is then washed clean. The next step is to spread plaster or mortar on the surface. In working around fixtures, corners and openings, you cut the tile to fit. You may apply adhesive to the tiles, and you set them in position. Once the tiles have set, you apply grout and then wipe the tiles clean.
As a tile installer, you are paid by the square foot installed. However, if you are a member of the union, then you may be paid an hourly wage. If you are self- employed, you may be paid a fixed amount per project based on the area to be covered.
A tilesetter's work requires some physical effort since it involves working in awkward positions when covering areas such as ceilings or walls. You may also find yourself spending long hours on your knees when installing floor tiles.
Beyond the physical demands of the job, you are challenged intellectually. You have to calculate weights, angles and wall dimensions. You also have to calculate how much material you need, as well as the length of time required to complete the work. Since most tilesetters tend to work on their own, you may find yourself directly responsible for estimates, invoices and your own accounting.
It is increasingly likely that you will come into direct contact with clients and contractors. Now more than ever, you must be ready to do public relations work and take control of your professional relationships.
The skills you develop as a tilesetter can be transferred from one sector to another. They can be adapted to private residences as well as to factories or hospitals.
New materials also offer opportunities for professional development and specialization. For example, high-density tile, which avoids water absorption and inhibits the growth of bacteria, is now used in hospital operating rooms. Computer rooms also require special tiles that reduce electrical static.
As a tilesetter, you must be a good planner. You should enjoy working with your hand are have a certain artistic flair. Tilesetters are valued for their punctuality, dependability, speed and efficiency. Speed, of course, comes with experience, but you need a good degree of natural coordination to do the work quickly. In addition, you need a good "eye" and the ability to visualize the final appearance of a specific assignment.
High standards and performance are expected in this trade. You are often required to work alone, without supervision. Employers are therefore on the lookout for serious and trustworthy individuals. Flexibility and adaptability are also important qualifications since you are called upon to work on different kinds of projects. You must keep updated on new techniques, styles and materials. Well-developed oral and written communications skills are essential as you deal with such clients and colleagues as architects, contractors, supervisors and other tradespeople.
Tool Designer
Tools of the trade
Tool designers create the tools that are used in manufacturing processes. They are employed in manufacturing and processing industries as well by engineering consultants.
As a tool designer, you must assess many elements when planning a manufacturing tool. You work from engineering drawings and refer to manuals to determine the requirements of each tool. You determine specifications for each part, what materials can be used, the expected life span of the part, and what machines should be used to manufacture the part. It is your responsibility to calculate the design specifications and ensure that dimensions are accurate. You must also determine whether manufacturing the part is safe and whether making this tool is cost-effective to the company.
You work with other people in the manufacturing process who tell you whether or not the tool you are designing meets all the necessary requirements. Though this system of checks and balances requires that designs be revised and refined many times, the increasing use of computers in this field means that exacting design standards may be achieved at a much faster rate.
People working in this position tend to be paid an annual salary.
There is no limit to the type of design work you might find yourself doing. Formal training periods are usually provided when you begin as companies want you to learn about their own specific methods and practices. Continual upgrading is part of the business, especially with the influence of computer-aided design programs and the rapid development of new materials. If courses on developing technology are not offered on the job, you can upgrade your skills through classes provide at a local community college.
You are able to advance within this area from machinist, to sheet metal operator, to draftsperson. Once you become a tool designer, you begin with simple design projects. As you gather more experience, you will be exposed to a greater variety of work and more challenging projects. As your skills improve, you may choose to pursue a specialization in fields such as detail tooling, assembly tooling, or design engineering.
Most tool designers work a regular forty-hour week, though some companies may require shift work.
There is strong and ongoing demand for people in this profession. To do well in it, you should be able to balance practical know-how of mechanics with creative ability. You must constantly look for new ways to modify or improve existing standards. This aspect of the work will attract you if you are the inventive type.
The work is meticulous and you must be able to concentrate on small details for extended periods of time. In most cases, you work in conjunction with tool makers, manufacturing engineers and quality control personnel. Because of this you should be able to communicate clearly and directly. Also, since much of the design process involves evaluating and revising ideas, you have to be open to constructive criticism from fellow workers.
Truck drivers operate gasoline or diesel-powered trucks to transport goods and materials within cities, from one city to the next, provincial or international routes. They are employed by transportation companies, manufacturing and distribution companies. They may also be self-employed or work as leaser-operators.
There are two classifications of truck. Heavy trucks can be straight or articulated and weigh more than 4600 kg and have three or more axles. Light trucks are straight, weigh less than 4600 kg and have a maximum of three axles. Regardless of which type of truck you drive, you are responsible for the functioning of the vehicle, the condition of the equipment and the safety of the cargo. If you are an independent trucker, you are responsible for loading, balancing, securing and tarping your cargo and then unloading it at the destination. If you work for a large carrier, you simply pick up the trailer and deliver it to its destination.
As a truck driver, you record loading, unloading and cargo delivery information. You keep track of times, destinations, mileage, fuel consumption and any problems encountered. If you have your own truck, you are responsible for its licensing and the permits that allow it to operate across provincial and international borders. You may drive as part of a team or in a convoy. You may also, on occasion, transport hazardous products or dangerous goods.
As a truck driver, you are on the front line of the company, and dealing with customers is a significant part of your job. This means that you must take care of your appearance and grooming and make the most of your people skills.
If you start out as a light truck driver, you can become a heavy truck driver by acquiring the required driving experience. With additional experience, you can also become a driving instructor, safety officer or dispatcher. Truck drivers who work within cities or on shorter routes are paid hourly or flat contract rates. Those who drive longer routes are paid by the kilometre or per trip. They may belong to unions.
This job will appeal to you if you love driving and operating heavy equipment. Mechanical ability is a definite asset. Companies look for people who drive carefully and who do not abuse the equipment. Carelessness takes its toll in breakdowns and fuel consumption. When you're working with a $100,000 vehicle, it's important that you have the right attitude.
You must be customer-oriented and know how to work with the people you meet in the course of the day -- from weigh scale officers to other employees. If you share long distance driving with another person, you live, work and sleep in a confined space for several days at a time. It is important to be able to adapt to all types of people.
If you're an independent trucker you need to be good at business. For example, you may have to wait 30 to 60 days to get paid. This means you must have your cash flow organized to carry you over to your next pay cheque. As an independent, you have to handle all your own paperwork, including your own taxes.
Since the hours can be irregular, and you may not be home for four to five days at a stretch, you have to be well organized. If you have a young family, you must make sure that your long absences from home do not create problems.
You don't necessarily have to be physically strong, but you do need to have mental stamina. Drivers must remain calm yet alert and responsive to changing road conditions.
Veterinary technicians care for sick or injured animals, under the supervision of a veterinarian. To do so, they take blood samples and x-rays, give medication, perform dental work, and assist in surgery. They perform single diagnostic laboratory tests. They also care for animals recovering from surgery.
In this job you might find yourself working for an individual veterinarian or as part of an animal health care team. You could also work in laboratories and research centres, small or large animal clinics, human societies, breeding operations, race tracks or zoos. In fact, there are veterinary technicians who work as meat inspectors, teachers in a college or as managers of a veterinary clinic.
You need to cope with both physical and mental demands. You may have to care for dozens of animals at any one time and you are often on your feet all day. For instance, you may work with large farm animals such as horses, cattle or pigs.
The field of veterinary technology has seen a lot of change. The work has become much more technical. It is also becoming more specialized with some veterinary technicians doing dental work and others evolving into research assistants. As a result, veterinary technicians are developing a strong sense of professional identity and pride.
For the most part, a veterinary technician is paid an annual salary based on an hourly rate which is above minimum wage.
To do this job you should care about animals. You need to be patient and understanding with them and with their owners. Be ready to work extra hours if the job calls for it.
You need good organizational skills and an ability to communicate both in writing and verbally. You also need common sense to figure out what the animals are experiencing. The work requires some physical strength to lift and carry animals.
This is a medical field, so neat habits and cleanliness are essential. Since you deal with the public, you should be tidy and presentable. Obviously, you should also make sure that you're not allergic to animals.
Most colleges and employers ask for previous experience in working with animals. If your high school has a cooperative work program, use it to gain that experience by working in a local kennel or other animal facility; you can also do volunteer work or find a summer job in the field.
Video camera operators are key players in Canada's new and entertainment industries. They record the daily action of the world around us, and capture the characters of television and motion picture dramas.
As a video camera operator you find yourself working for television networks, for independent video producers or for the in-house communications facilities of large corporations. You might prefer to be a self-employed "freelancer" working for independent producers on a project-by-project basis.
Electronic News Gathering, or ENG, operators usually work for television stations or networks. In this job, you are part of a team that includes a reporter and a technician assigned to pursue specific news stories. You might just go out on your own. This work is hectic, and deadline-oriented, but you have the satisfaction of seeing your work broadcast on television, often on the same day.
Another kind of video production is know as Electronic Field Production or EFP. A typical assignment could last a week or two. In this job you work closely with lighting and sound technicians to achieve detailed control over the image being recorded. The crew typically also includes a director, a producer, production assistants and sometimes a director of photography. This type of production is used for television documentaries, sitcoms, soap operas, commercials and made-for-TV movies.
This job will appeal to you if you have artistic or journalistic interests. In ENG work, employers look for the ability to sniff out stories and deal with people. In EFP applications, a talent for visual composition, and an understanding of lighting is important.
The ability to function as part of a team is also essential. And you should be physically fit, especially for ENG work. While the camera equipment now weighs only 16 to 20 lbs., you may have to carry it through crowded, fast-moving surroundings.
Video technical assistants work behind the scenes of every television program we see. They help other crew members with staging, lighting and recording. The work is always varied, especially when a program is produced "on location".
You may have to more many pieces of equipment by truck and then set up on location. Lights, camera, dollies, monitors, videotape recorders and hundreds of metres of cable must be placed precisely in their correct locations. You then tape down loose cabling, secure lighting equipment, and perform an equipment check. You do this work under direction from other members of the crew.
During the broadcast or videotape recording, you help to monitor the recording process. Part of your task is to watch for problems and keep written logs. You may operate camera dollies or microphone booms. And when the job is done, every item goes back into its shipping case, ready for the next production.
You may be employed by television stations and independent producers of films and television programs. From this entry-level position, you may have the opportunity to move into a variety of different specialties.
Freelance video technician assistants are generally paid by the day, however, if you are hired by a video production company, you are likely to be paid a salary.
You must be able to concentrate on your work. Careful attention to every detail is vital. An undetected mistake on location can be extremely expensive to fix later.
This job is a good introduction to the world of video production. With something new every day, you are in an ideal position to learn new skills. This occupation gives you hands-on experience and an opportunity to work closely with producers and technical crews.
You have to follow directions exactly. You must spot and quickly correct problems, and be capable of working effectively as part of a team. You need well-developed communication skills in order to clearly express your concerns and ideas. Above all, you must be able to concentrate for fairly long periods of time. To get ahead, you should be motivated to learn more about your work and related occupations.
Water treatment plant operators work in water filtration and treatment plants. They monitor and operate computerized control systems to regulate the treatment and distribution of water. Water treatment plant operators are employed by municipal governments.
A water treatment plant operator is responsible for monitoring and adjusting the systems that control a city or town's drinking water. Raw water from a natural water source is pumped into the water treatment plant and must undergo extensive chemical treatment and filtration before it is fit for distribution into a community's water system.
It is your job to monitor the computerized systems that control the pumping, filtering and chemical treatment of this water and to ensure the systems are working correctly. You read flow meters and the pressure and water level gages to measure water output and consumption levels, and to calculate chemical dosages. Bacterial content, algae, chloride and fluoride levels are other factors that you must monitor carefully. You collect water samples for chemical and bacterial analyses by laboratory staff and carry out specific water tests. You analyze the test results and make the required adjustments to the system.
The plant equipment must be run properly to ensure the flow of good water into the community. Part of your job is to inspect the plant systems and detect any malfunctions. You may perform adjustments and minor repairs or call for assistance in getting the equipment operational again. You are also required to maintain and keep all of the equipment clean. Some janitorial duties may be required.
Record-keeping is an important part of your job. You prepare reports and maintain logs on meter readings, tests and chemical and equipment usage.
Your job as a water treatment plant operator is an important one. You must check meters and gauges carefully to make sure that all systems are working normally. Your time is spent doing rounds where you collect chemical and bacteriological samples, monitor chemical feed equipment and report mechanical malfunctions. You may be required to sit for long periods of time, monitoring computer-operated control and data systems.
You should be physically fit to do your job properly. You may be required to lift heavy objects, such as pumps, generators and air compressors or climb into tanks or valve chambers to perform routine maintenance and cleaning duties.
The job can occasionally be stressful, especially if there is a malfunction in the system. You must ensure that the problem is dealt with quickly and efficiently to maintain an uninterrupted supply of water to the community.
Part of a water treatment plant operator's job is to deal with people. You not only have to work closely with co-workers in the field and maintenance staff, but you must also answer the phone and deal with requests or complaints from the public. Accurate record-keeping and information reporting are also an essential part of the job.
Since water treatment goes on around the clock, you may be required to work shifts.
To do well as a water treatment plant operator, you should be organized and have an eye for detail. You are required to carefully monitor gages and meters and to keep accurate records and reports of plant operations.
A good understanding of basic chemistry and chemical reactions plus a mechanical aptitude are assets. You should also understand the workings of the water treatment machinery in order to carry out inspections of the equipment. It is important to know what must be done in the event of a breakdown in the plant.
Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are important. A pleasant personality and an interest in working with people are assets in this job. You have to be polite, courteous and have a knack for public relations.
Waterworks maintenance workers are responsible for the collection, treatment and distribution of water. They are employed in water filtration and distribution plants and waste treatment plants by municipal, provincial or federal governments. They are also employed in industry to treat complex waste disposal problems.
Waterworks maintenance workers oversee the collection of raw water from wells, rivers or lakes. The raw water is filtered through different types of sand and then pumped into a clear water well where it is treated. You regularly collect samples of the raw water in six to eight jars, considering factors such as water temperature and upstream users. You test each jar with different chemicals to determine the best way to treat the water. After treatment, the water is pumped out and distributed to homes and industries.
Water maintenance workers also oversee the treatment of residential or industrial waste water and sewage. Many industries treat their own water, while others discharge water directly into the sewage system. You supervise the collection of waste water into large tanks, monitor flows and then treat the water biologically using micro-organisms that eat the sewage.
If you work for the water utility of a small municipality, you may work in both the water distribution and waste water treatment operations. In larger systems, however, your job may be more specialized. You may focus on mechanical, electrical or water distribution monitoring functions.
Waterworks maintenance workers check, clean and lubricate waterworks equipment, such as the pumps, chlorinating equipment and compressors. You search and locate reported water leaks and repair waterlines, valves or outlets. You may also adjust and repair water works equipment under the direction of a qualified tradesperson. You deal frequently with consulting engineers, municipal officials and inspectors.
Workers usually work eight-hour shifts, but you may take turns being on call 24 hours a day. You are usually paid an hourly wage. With experience you can become a senior operator, supervisor or manager. At the senior levels, you may need a diploma or degree. You may find it difficult to move between employers because of collective agreements or policies that require new employees to start at entry-level positions. You may belong to the local union for municipal employees or to a provincial or federal public sector union.
This work will appeal to you if you are interested in the sciences, especially chemistry. Much of the water analysis work requires extensive calculations of chemical content, so basic math skills are an asset. A lot of the data collection and preparation of the annual reports is automated. As you compile reports, you should be familiar with computers.
The work also calls for team players who recognize how their job is related to what other people are doing in the system. You need to be well organized because you are continually collecting data. During emergencies, you have to be able to respond calmly and quickly without disturbing other aspects of the system.
You must keep your work environment and your clothes clean and tidy, since you work with the water that people drink. You must be able to deal effectively with the general public, city council and government inspectors. You may also find yourself giving tours to both the general public and school classes.
There is nothing that you specifically must have in order to be hired for an entry- level position in this occupation. Employers simply hire the best qualified people available.
Wildlife technicians provide support and services to scientists working in wildlife management and animal biology. They are usually employed in field settings by federal and provincial government departments and agencies, colleges and universities, environmental consulting or resource companies and utilities. The field itself is highly competitive.
As a wildlife technician, you do field research on animal populations. You might, for example, monitor the effects of hunting pressures on wildlife. Or you might conduct a bird survival study, observing and counting birds, studying predators, and trapping the birds in order to attach tags or radio transmitters.
Wildlife technicians conduct or supervise operational programs, such as restocking elk in the area. You also study wildlife habitats and land areas. Occasionally, you may be involved in programs to buy and improve land so wildlife can live there.
You assist scientists in analysing data and preparing reports. Computers may be used to develop sophisticated models of habitats or to analyze the data you collect. You may also enforce regulations regarding wildlife and fisheries habitat and population protection.
Most of your summers are spent working in the field. During the winter months you analyze data in the office or in the lab and prepare for the next summer's work. You are usually paid a salary.
This job appeals to independent people who have a real love for plant and animal life and who enjoy being outdoors in all kinds of weather. To do the work well, you need to work hard, display enthusiasm and be willing to apply what you learn. The wide range of skills you develop in this work will give you a deeper understanding of the natural environment.
Wildlife technicians are meticulous collectors of data. You need an eye for detail and enough mathematical skill to develop a fairly good grasp of statistics. Your written language skills must be good enough for you to write reports. You may also need to develop an ability to communicate since it is possible that you might be asked to serve as a contact with other groups, deal with land owners, or simply provide environmental and wildlife information to interested members of the public.
There are a variety of community college programs offered. However, the ones that are recognized throughout North America are those approved by the North American Wildlife Technology Association, a loose network of wildlife science departments across the continent.
X-ray technologists are part of a team. They use highly sophisticated equipment to produce pictures in internal body structures. These ../images are used by medical specialists called radiologists to diagnose injury or disease. X-ray technologists, also known as medical radiographers, assist radiologists and engage in patient care. They can also be found working in the trauma rooms, operating theatres, and fracture rooms of hospitals.
This field has experience tremendous change over the past two decades. As an x-ray technologist today, you will need to be familiar with computers as well as human anatomy, physiology and a range of other scientific areas.
Normally you will be paid hourly with options such as overtime. If you become the manager of an x-ray department, you will be paid a salary.
You will need to be comfortable with highly technical machinery and computers. X- ray technologists should always be concerned about both the physical and the emotional welfare of the patient. A genuine interest in people and their welfare is also an asset. So are good written and verbal communications skills. Because you will work closely with others, you will need to be a team player who is also capable, on occasion, of working independently.
The job can be very stressful, especially in larger hospitals where you might be working in trauma or operating rooms. In smaller clinics, the pace of work may be much slower. The work is usually not physically demanding, though on occasion, you may have to lift or assist seriously ill patients. Regardless of where the job is, you should be organized and dependable.
Please not that some provinces require the one-year university program as a prerequisite to the two-year diploma course. And in most cases, the two-year course is one of continuous study for 24 months. Membership in the provincial association is recommended in order to keep up with the changes in the field.