Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
Mar 26th 2009 | 11:27 pm
#46
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 29
Re: Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
I started here as an Electrical Tech, even though my background is an Industrial Electrician. Mainly because you did not need a license to work as opposed to an Electrician
I am surprised that the technicians are paid so low, compared to Electricians. In the UK they do a job that commands a higher wage than Electricians- but dont forget in Canada, the trades unions influence the pay rates.
By neccessity I quickly got my red seal so I could work as an Electrician and be paid a livable wage.
It is true that the term 'Engineer' in the UK has been devalued somewhat, the only exception for the use of the term in Canada is that of Power Engineer, they are more like tradespeople although they do not go through an Apprenticeship program.
Their role is to look after the services within any large facility, be it a factory or large office building, specializing in HVAC, limited Electrical and general maintenance.
Darren
I am surprised that the technicians are paid so low, compared to Electricians. In the UK they do a job that commands a higher wage than Electricians- but dont forget in Canada, the trades unions influence the pay rates.
By neccessity I quickly got my red seal so I could work as an Electrician and be paid a livable wage.
It is true that the term 'Engineer' in the UK has been devalued somewhat, the only exception for the use of the term in Canada is that of Power Engineer, they are more like tradespeople although they do not go through an Apprenticeship program.
Their role is to look after the services within any large facility, be it a factory or large office building, specializing in HVAC, limited Electrical and general maintenance.
Darren
Im kinda guessing with the job I'm taking on there won't be much work a traditional electrician would do, hmph.
Mar 27th 2009 | 2:42 am
#47
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 29
Re: Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
Also, are the technician/engineering jobs paid a better salary in Vancouver than over in Ontario?
I'm just researching BC now, maybe it is a potentially awesome place to live.
I'm just researching BC now, maybe it is a potentially awesome place to live.
Mar 27th 2009 | 3:00 am
#48
Forum Regular
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 186
From: dundee
Re: Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
i take it you're determined not to listen to the advice and pointers etc that everyone is offering?! without a degree or a trade, the chances of you getting PR are very remote, so i'd sort that first. an engineering trade or degree will open many doors for you throughout your life
Mar 27th 2009 | 3:43 am
#49
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 29
Re: Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
I wasn't ignoring that at all, I've taken it on board and hopefully when the time arises I can do that. Just intrigued, that's all.
Mar 27th 2009 | 9:29 am
#50
Journeyman Canadian
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 494
From: RM of Tache, Manitoba
Re: Newbie here, advice please! (electrical engineers?)
It is a difficult exam with a high pass mark, plus you dont have the support network that the apprentice has, who attends 10 weeks of trade school to prepare for it.
It took me 3 months of intense home study to pass it.
Darren
