What They Do
The Electrical Generating Systems Technician (EGS TECH) provides electrical power generation support to operational units at home and abroad. During peacetime, EGS TECHs maintain their skills while employed at home units or on humanitarian and United Nations operational assignments. The EGS TECH occupation is one of the seven Construction Engineering occupations involved in the supply of all construction, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering services in support of Canadian Forces operations worldwide.
- Install, operate, maintain and repair mobile electrical generators and associated control equipment (i.e., switchgear)
- Install, operate, maintain and repair power plant electrical generators and associated control equipment
- Install, operate and maintain engine prime movers associated with equipment driven by Construction Engineers (i.e., Aircraft Arresting Systems, Water Purification Units)
- Install, operate, maintain and repair SUPS (Static Uninterruptable Power Systems) and RUPS (Rotary Uninterruptable Power Systems)
- Overhaul electrical generation systems and equipment
- Produce associated designs and specifications
- Produce mechanical and electrical drawings
- Perform brazing/welding and machining work related to the above
- Conduct reconnaissance related to the above
- Assist other Construction Engineering tradespersons
Qualification Requirements
EGS TECHs require a comprehensive knowledge of math and a detailed knowledge of physics. They must also possess good reasoning skills and be resourceful and innovative in solving unusual mechanical and electrical problems. Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team are essential, as are good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. EGS TECHs should enjoy working outdoors and be able to maintain a high level of physical fitness. You must meet Canadian Forces medical standards, and successfully complete a selection process that includes interviews and a wide range of examinations.
Career Development
EGS TECHs within the Canadian Forces consider their occupation to be both challenging and rewarding. There are good opportunities for advancement and specialty training for those who meet the job requirements, show potential leadership abilities and enjoy working in a team environment.
Initial Employment
On completion of basic occupational training, EGS TECHs can expect to be posted to one of the following units:
- Airfield Engineering Flight (Air Force Environment)
- Construction Troop (Army Environment)
- Naval Construction Troop (Navy Environment)
- Base/Wing Construction Engineering Section
These units are located across Canada at such locations as Winnipeg, Man., Gagetown, N.B., Halifax and Greenwood, N.S., Petawawa, Ont., Valcartier and Bagotville, Que., Cold Lake and Edmonton, Alta., and Esquimalt, B.C and in many other locations.
Specialty Training
Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and motivation will undertake advanced occupational training through formal courses and on-the-job training as they progress in their career field. Specialty and advanced training may also be provided. EGS TECHs who have the required qualifications and attain the rank of Sergeant would be eligible to enter the Construction Engineering Superintendent (MOC 649) occupation, with possible progression to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer.
Specialty Training Courses
- SUPS/RUPS operation, maintenance and repairs
- Electrical Switchgear and Programmable Logic Controllers
- Instructional Techniques
Working Environment
EGS TECHs often work day or night, exposed to the elements, under varying environmental and austere conditions involving long hours of standing, bending and twisting. They are frequently required to carry heavy materials and equipment weighing up to 45 kg and sometimes over 45 kg. Working conditions often include risk of bodily injury and exposure to noise, vibration, dust, high temperatures, chemicals, acid, and noxious or toxic fumes. Mental stress can be high when occupational duties must be performed under operational conditions with limited resources and time. Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and Electrical Generating Systems Technicians’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.
Basic Military Qualification
The first stage of training for everyone is the 13-week Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A primary goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the CF physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding. BMQ covers the following topics:
- Policies and regulations of the Canadian Forces;
- CF drill, dress and deportment (the “three D’s”);
- Basic safety;
- First aid;
- Personal survival in nuclear, biological and chemical conditions;
- Handling and firing personal weapons;
- Cross-country navigation; and
- Personal survival in field conditions.
Basic Military Occupational Training
On completion of BMQ, Electrical Generating Systems Technicians attend Basic Military Occupational (MOC) Training at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (CFSME) in Gagetown, New Brunswick. Training takes approximately 27 weeks and includes:
- Environmental skills such as defensive tactics and firearms
- Care and use of common and special purpose tools and test equipment
- Application of occupational codes and regulations
- Interpretation of drawing and schematics
- Physics, mechanical, electrical and electronic principles
- Uninterruptable power systems
- Mobile and fixed electrical generators
- Electrical generation control and monitoring systems
- Prime movers (engines)
- Engine controllers
- Brazing and welding techniques
