You will provide plumbing and heating engineering support to operational units at home and abroad. You will install and maintain interior plumbing systems, interior water supply systems, heating systems and fire suppression systems.

The Plumbing and Heating Technician (PH TECH) provides plumbing and heating engineering support to operational units at home and abroad. During peacetime, Plumbing and Heating Technicians maintain their skills while employed at home units or on humanitarian and United Nations operational assignments. The PH TECH occupation is one of 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 and maintain interior plumbing systems
• Install and maintain interior water supply systems
• Install and maintain heating systems
• Install and maintain fire suppression systems
• Install and maintain gaseous fuel systems
• Install and maintain oil burning equipment
• Produce related designs and specifications
• Produce related drawings
• Install and maintain field ablution (i.e. washing) facilities
• Conduct reconnaissance related to the above
• Assist other Construction Engineering tradespersons

PH TECHs require a comprehensive knowledge of math and a detailed knowledge of physics and chemistry. They must also possess good reasoning skills, and be resourceful and innovative in solving unusual construction 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. PH TECHs should enjoy working outdoors and be able to maintain a high level of physical fitness.

PH 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.

On completion of basic occupational training, PH 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.

Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and motivation can undertake advanced occupational training through formal courses and on-the-job training as they progress in their career field. Specialty training may also be provided. PH TECHs who have the required qualifications and attain the rank of Sergeant are eligible to enter the Construction Engineering Superintendent occupation, with possible progression to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. Listed below are examples of the specialty courses available.

Specialty Courses

• Specialty Heating Systems
• Water Distribution Systems
• Instructional Techniques

PH 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 construction materials and equipment weighing up to 45 kg. Working conditions often include risk of bodily injury and exposure to noise, vibration, dust, 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 Plumbing and Heating Technicians’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.