SPRINKLER FITTER Apprenticeship Program
Sprinkler Fitter is a designated Red Seal Trade governed by Provincial and Territorial Apprenticeship Acts. The Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) gives employment mobility to qualified journeypersons throughout Canada.
A Career in Saving Lives and Property
DID YOU KNOW?
Registered apprentices can apply for the Canada Apprentice Loan where you can get up to $4000 in interest-free loans per period of technical training. No payments are required, and no interest will accumulate until after you complete (or leave) your apprenticeship training program. There are also tax credits for tools, certification exam fees, textbooks, and education fees. Find more information at:
WHAT DOES A SPRINKLER FITTER DO?
Sprinkler fitters install, inspect, test, and maintain a multitude of sprinkler, standpipe, and suppression systems for life safety and fire protection. This also includes water supplies, hydrants, and fire pumps required with some of these system applications. These fire protection systems can be found in the industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential buildings and structures throughout Canada. These systems not only provide an active fire protection method during a fire, but they can also help the fire services during suppression efforts. Standpipe systems help supply water for fire fighting and sprinkler systems can help control a fire during call response times and will help reduce heat and toxic gases that are released during a fire.
WHAT SKILLS ARE REQUIRED?
• Strong mechanical and mathematical aptitude
• Working with hand tools and power tools
• Physical ability to install systems and equipment in all types of climates
• Working efficiently and safely including the ability to work at heights
• Being punctual and having a positive attitude
• Ability to problem solve and be organized
• Effective communication (verbal and listening)
• Work well independently and as a team
HOW LONG IS THE APPRENTICESHIP?
These are the average apprenticeship requirements throughout Canada for sprinkler fitter:
• 6480 hours of on-the-job training
• 720 hours of in class technical training
• 3 levels of in class technical training (8 weeks per level)
• Red Seal Interprovincial Qualification available for trade qualification upon completion
• Note: apprenticeship is typically completed within 4 to 5 years
HOW MUCH DOES APPRENTICESHIP COST?
One of the benefits of being a registered sprinkler fitter apprentice is that you earn while you learn. You are being paid while fulfilling the on-the-job hours as well as having resources to Employment Insurance while attending technical training. Red Seal trades also have incentive grants and completion grants available during apprenticeship (potentially up to $8000). Some technical training providers may require an education fee which can vary between provinces and training providers but can be applied as a tax credit in most cases.
HOW MUCH DO I "EARN WHILE I LEARN"?
The starting wage for a sprinkler apprentice can range between $20 to $28 per hour throughout Canada (50% of journeyperson wage). These wages will progress as you complete your training hours and/or technical training. An apprenticeship with the United Association and their signatory contractors will include additional health benefits and pension contributions. You will also get the resource of employment opportunities if needed throughout your apprenticeship. Local Sprinkler Industry Joint Training and Apprenticeship Committees are active and there to support your apprenticeship and subsequent journeyperson upgrade training after certification.
