Skilled trades

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Careers in demand

There is currently a huge demand for skilled trades in the electricity industry, driven by Ontario Power Generation (OPG)’s ongoing Darlington Refurbishment project and other refurbishment projects underway. And by 2030, Colleges Ontario forecasts the province will face a shortage of more than 500,000 skilled trades workers.

Trades careers directly with OPG

Eligibility 

The amount of experience required depends on the position. Mechanical Technician, Electrical & Control Technician, and Inspection & Maintenance Technician positions require a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q). Many of the positions may also require completion of a college program or equivalent. The specific job posting will indicate what experience is required. 

The OPG Nuclear Apprentice Program is a 4-year training program and its objective is to ensure individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to perform Mechanical or Electrical & Control Technician work in a nuclear generating station. 

Apprenticeships offered are: 

  • Electrical 
  • Instrumentation 
  • Millwright 

Apprenticeships are posted all year round with opportunities varying from year to year, based on our business needs. 

We offer training program opportunities across OPG in both Nuclear Generating Stations (Nuclear Operator In-Training) and Hydroelectric Generating Stations (Hydroelectric Operating Technician Trainees). These training programs are a combination of both classroom and field training.  Being an OPG trainee means you can apply your knowledge, broaden your sills and make a valuable contribution to an organization that is vital to Ontario’s success.  

Trainee Programs

Nuclear Operator In-Training (NOIT) 

This position is a training program to become a Nuclear Operator. Training can take up to 18 months to complete depending on the assigned stream and NOIT’s will gain on the job experience by working 8- to 12-hours rotating shifts.   

Nuclear Operators are responsible for keeping the nuclear generating station running. They make rounds of their designated areas within the plant to check and maintain the operating status of equipment, complete routines and regular inspections and perform tests on equipment. 

Candidates must have at minimum a secondary school diploma, with grade 12 University preparation courses in math and physics and/or chemistry. Although, typically we hire candidates with either a diploma in a related study such as Power, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a four year Engineering university degree.  

Hydroelectric Operating Technician Trainee (HOTT) 

The Hydroelectric Operating Technician Trainee program is two years in length and will require the selected candidates to complete six classroom training sessions, self study modules and gain on the job experience by working 8- and 12-hours rotating shifts.  Travel and occasional overnight stays at other OPG sites and remote locations is required.  The trainees will be required to successfully complete all training requirements and pass a final exam in order to become Hydroelectric Operating Technicians.  

Hydroelectric Operating Technician Trainee is responsible for carrying out and overseeing operating activities to ensure the safe and reliable operation of equipment, hydroelectric generators and control dams.  This role is responsible to maintain employee and public safety, while managing levels and flows of rivers, ensuring they are in compliance with environmental requirements.  

Candidates must have secondary school diploma, along with a 2-year Power Engineering, Instrumentation or Electrical diploma.

Testing 

If you meet the selection criteria, you may be invited for testing. Should you successfully pass these tests, you may be invited to an interview. Please note that these are not tests for which you can study.

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Our trades and operators

Explore our current skilled trade and operator vacancies on jobs.opg.com.

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Trades careers with OPG via the Building Trade Unions

In addition to partnering with the Power Workers Union in all our locations, OPG partners with the Building Trades Unions to hire the skilled trades.  For more information, see the skilled trade job profiles below.

What is a Carpenter? 

A General Carpenter constructs, renovates and repairs structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials in the residential, commercial and industrial construction sectors and in related industries.

Where can a Carpenter work? 
  • Construction
  • Energy  
  • Manufacturing 
Job sites
  • Heavy industrial construction
  • Institutional and commercial construction
  • New home building and renovation
Learn more about becoming a Carpenter 
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $42.91/hr as a unionized General Carpenter!
  • As a General Carpenter Apprentice, you need to complete 7,200 hrs of training. Specifically 6,480 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help!
  • Carpentry work can be divided into two categories - rough carpentry (i.e., building things that need to be simple and structural) and finish carpentry (i.e., focus is on things that are detailed and artistic).
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Detail-oriented  
  • Hand-eye coordination 
  • Precision work 
  • Problem-solving 
What is a Commercial Inspection & Maintenance Diver? 

A Commercial Diver inspects underwater structures like the gates of a hydro station or the water intake of a nuclear station. Commercial Divers also perform a variety of maintenance activities under water.

For example, performing an underwater inspection on the concrete structure of a hydro station to check for any cracks/loose debris, or doing underwater welding repairs.

Where can a Commercial Inspection & Maintenance Diver work? 
  • Energy sector 
  • Underwater construction 
  • Offshore oil 
  • Civil projects 
  • Environmental projects 
  • Marine 
Job sites
  • Hydroelectric generating stations
  • Nuclear power plants
  • Construction
  • Off-shore oil field
  • Oil rig
  • Underwater structures
  • Ships
Learn more about becoming a Commercial Inspection & Maintenance Diver 
Unions
Did you know? 
  • Starting annual pay for a Diver is $40,000 to $60,000 and an experienced commercial diver can earn $100,000 to $150,000 a year.
  • The unrestricted Surface Supplied Diver Certificate allows you to dive to a depth of 50m.
The skills you need
  • Communication
  • Physical fitness
  • Civil/mechanical knowledge
  • Planning
  • Problem-solving
What is a Construction Boilermaker? 

A Construction Boilermaker builds, installs, erects, tests, maintains and repairs all types of boilers, tanks and pressure vessels, and performs all types of structural and plate work on dust, air, gas, steam, oil, water and other liquid-tight pressure vessels. 

Where can a Construction Boilermaker work? 
  • Construction
  • Energy  
  • Manufacturing 
Job sites
  • Hydroelectric Generating Stations
  • Nuclear Power Plants
  • Construction
  • Pulp and Paper Mills
  • Coal Fired & Natural Gas Generating Station
  • Boiler Fabrication 
Learn more about becoming a Construction Boilermaker 
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $48.21/hr as a unionized Construction Boilermaker!
  • As a Construction Boilermaker Apprentice, you need to complete 6,600 hrs of training. Specifically 5,880 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help!
  • Boilermakers evolved from industrial blacksmithing. Boilermakers were a part of shipbuilding & engineering industries, as it was easier & more affordable to hire an on-site boilermaker to build ships. 
The skills you need
  • Communication  
  • Numerical literacy  
  • Management  
  • Planning  
  • Problem-solving 
What is a Construction Labourer? 

A Construction Labourer (Construction Craft Worker) works on a wide variety of structures, such as residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional sites as well as hydroelectric dams, roadways, bridges, tunnels, mining and railways. The individual may also work on utility, landscape and pipeline projects.

Where can a Construction Labourer work? 
  • Commercial (e.g., your own business, food & beverage manufacturing companies)
  • Construction (e.g., for a construction company)
  • Industrial (e.g., industrial machinery maker)
  • Mining (e.g., a mine, oil & gas company)
  • Energy (e.g., a electricity utility like OPG)
Learn more about becoming a Construction Labourer 
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $41.41/hr as a Construction Labourer in Ontario! 
  • As a Construction Labourer Apprentice, you need to complete 2,880 hrs of training. Specifically 2,400 hrs of on-the-job experience and 480 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
  • Construction Labourers (Construction Craft worker) are the backbone of any jobsite. They are often the first craft on the project and the last to leave. 
The skills you need
  • Communication
  • Creativity
  • Management
  • Strategic planning
  • Problem-solving
What is an Electrician? 

An Electrician plans, assembles, connects, installs, repairs, inspects, tests, verifies, and maintains electrical systems in various settings (i.e., residential, commercial, institutional, industrial). The individual also measures, cuts, threads, bends, assembles and installs conduits, electrical conductor enclosures and supports. 

Where can an Electrician work? 
  • Institutional and commercial construction
  • Engineering construction
  • Heavy Industrial construction
  • Manufacturing and prefabrication
  • New home building and renovation 
Learn more about becoming an Electrician 
Unions
Did you know? 
  • As an Electrical Apprentice, you need to complete 9,000 hrs of training. Specifically 8,160 hrs of on-the-job experience and 840 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
  • Technology advancement has impacted the electrical trade more than any other trade. There is an increasing demand for well-trained skilled electricians. 
The skills you need
  • Analytical thinking  
  • Numerical literacy  
  • Problem-solving  
  • Responsible 
  • Team player 
What is an Industrial Millwright? 

An Industrial Millwright installs, maintains / inspects, troubleshoots, and repairs machinery, mechanical equipment, and other automated and robotic systems. They are mostly engaged in the initial installation and maintenance of industrial plant machinery and equipment. 

Where can an Industrial Millwright work? 
  • Commercial (e.g., your own business, food & beverage manufacturing companies)
  • Construction (e.g., for a construction company)
  • Industrial (e.g., industrial machinery maker)
  • Manufacturing (e.g., automotive maker)
  • Mining (e.g., a mine, oil & gas company)
  • Energy (e.g., an electricity utility like OPG)
Learn more about becoming an Industrial Millwright
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $46.17/hr as a unionized Industrial Millwright! 
  • As a Millwright Apprentice, you need to complete 8,000 hrs of training. Specifically 7,280 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Creative thinking  
  • Detail-oriented  
  • Hand-eye coordination  
  • Planning & visualization 
What is an Ironworker? 

An Ironworker is involved in erecting residential, commercial, institutional and industrial buildings as well as other large structures such as bridges, dams and stadiums. The individual sets up the framework of a building by positioning steel girders or other structural elements and then bolting them into place. 

Where can an Ironworker work? 
  • Construction
  • Energy
  • Manufacturing
Job sites
  • Engineering construction
  • Heavy industrial construction
  • Institutional and commercial construction
Learn more about becoming an Ironworker
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $48.34/hr as a unionized Ironworker!
  • As an Ironworker Apprentice, you need to complete 6,000 hrs of training. Specifically 5,280 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help!
  • Ironworking is a multi-faceted career and involves more than constructing buildings and bridges! 
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Numerical literacy 
  • Physical stamina 
  • Planning 
  • Problem-solving 
What is a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician?

An NDT technician performs tests that provide information about the condition, quality and integrity of a piece of material and/or components without destroying them. 

An example would be performing an inspection to prove continuity of a weld in a piping system or identify flaws that would need to be repaired. 

Where can a NDT technician work? 
  • Energy 
  • Construction 
  • Manufacturing 
  • Aerospace 
  • Offshore 
  • Integrity digs 
Education

Prior to entering the work force you will need:

  • Successful completion of College/University or Grade 12 math course taken within the last 10 years. 
  • Successfully complete a materials and processes course (also known as engineering, materials and components (EMC)) and receive a completion grade of 70% or higher. This can be done at a number of accredited schools.
  • Take an NDT course based on the method of your preference (methods include; ultrasonics, radiography, Eddy current, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, visual and certified exposure device operator). This can be taken at an accredited school.  

Once into the work force you will:

  • Begin accumulating time and experience in the field which will go towards completing your government method certification. 
  • Accumulate 50% of on-the-job training hours or more and qualify to write the certification exams. Depending on the method you chose to take, this will include two written exams and a practical exam. 
Job sites
  • Hydroelectric Generating Stations
  • Nuclear Power Plants
  • Construction
  • Pulp and Paper Mills
  • Coal Fired & Natural Gas Generating Station
  • Boiler Fabrication
  • Steel Mills
  • Pipelines
  • Oil and Gas Refineries
  • Mines
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $49.00/hr to $61.98/hr as a unionized fully certified NDT Technician!
  • As an NDT Technician Trainee, you need to complete 525hrs of on-the-job training to become initially certified in a testing method. Once certified you will be given a Government certification known as a CGSB Cert. from the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). Once certified, you can work all over Canada. The certification is transferable between companies. 
  • A great resource for information regarding your applications, certifications and required industry experience can all be found at www.natural-resources.canada.ca 
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Numerical literacy 
  • Management 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Planning 
What is an Operating Engineer?

An Operating Engineer (Heavy Equipment Operator) operates heavy equipment used in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, airports, gas and oil pipelines, tunnels, buildings and other structures, in surface mining and quarrying activities and in material handling work. The individual is employed by construction, pipeline and logging companies, and heavy equipment contractors.

Where can an Operating Engineer work? 
  • Construction
Job sites
  • Engineering construction
  • Heavy industrial construction
  • Institutional and commercial construction
  • New home building and renovation
Learn more about becoming an Operating Engineer
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $43 to 46.43/hr depending on the equipment as a unionized Operating Engineer!
  • As an Operating Engineer Apprentice, you need to complete 2,500 hrs of training. Specifically 2,260 hrs of on-the-job experience and 240 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
  • As an Operating Engineer (Heavy Equipment Operator), you could specialize in Dozer, Excavator, or Tractor Loader Backhoe. 
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Flexibility 
  • Hand-eye coordination 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Team player 
What is a Painter?

A Painter applies protective finishes in commercial, institutional and industrial settings. The individual prepares a variety of surfaces (wood, masonry, drywall, plaster, concrete, synthetics, stucco and metal) prior to the application of materials such as paint, high performance coatings, waterproofing, fireproofing, and specialty finishes.

Where can a Painter work? 
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Residential
Learn more about becoming a Painter
Unions
Did you know? 
  • As a Painter Apprentice, you need to complete 6,000 hrs of training. Specifically, 5,280 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
  • Being a residential, commercial, or industrial painter means working with your hands, helping customers, creating art and aesthetic beauty every day of your life. 
The skills you need
  • Communication 
  • Creativity 
  • Detail-oriented 
  • Planning 
  • Problem-solving 
What is a Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter?

A Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter installs, repairs and maintains pipes, fixtures and other plumbing equipment used for water distribution and wastewater disposal in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Where can a Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter work? 
  • Construction
  • Energy
  • Manufacturing
Job sites
  • Maintenance departments of factories, plants, and similar establishment
  • Institutional and commercial construction
  • New home building and renovation 
Learn more about becoming a Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $58.90/hr as a unionized Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter! 
  • As a Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter Apprentice, you need to complete 9,000 hrs of training. Specifically, 8,280 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help! 
  • Albert Einstein said if he could do it all again, he would be a plumber!
The skills you need
  • Collaboration 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Read and interpret blueprints 
  • Use of precision tools and machinery 
  • Visualize detailed structures from drawings 
What is a Sheet Metal Worker?

A Sheet Metal Worker designs, fabricates, assembles, installs and repairs sheet metal products. The individual lays out and measures pieces to job specifications, using tools such as hand shears and power shears, press brakes, drill presses and computerized cutting equipment to cut and shape material. The individual also assembles pieces using various techniques such as welding and using mechanical fasteners.

Where can a Sheet Metal Worker work? 
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
Job sites
  • Engineering construction
  • Machine shops
  • Heavy industrial construction
  • New home building and renovation
  • Institutional and commercial construction
Learn more about becoming a Sheet Metal Worker
Unions
Did you know? 
  • You can earn $45.95/hr as a unionized Sheet Metal Worker!
  • As a Sheet Metal Worker Apprentice, you need to complete 9,000 hrs of training. Specifically 8,280 hrs of on-the-job experience and 720 hrs of in-class training. It might sound like a lot but there is lots of support out there to help!
  • Sheet Metal Workers work with black iron, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, nickel, tin plate, and other alloys.
The skills you need
  • Dexterity 
  • Hand-eye coordination 
  • Mathematical aptitude 
  • Mechanical aptitude 
  • Spatial perception 
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Why support OPG projects?

As one of North America’s largest, most diverse electricity generators, OPG invests in local economies and employs thousands of people across Ontario and the US. OPG and its family of companies are leading the development of new clean technologies, refurbishment projects, and electrification initiatives to power the growing demand of a clean economy.

OPG is a prestigious employer with 10,000+ employees. We are a climate change leader involved in diverse, clean, and low-cost electricity generation in Ontario that operates hydroelectric, nuclear and biomass stations.

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