Description of the Oil Heat System Technician trade
“Oil Heat System Technician” is this trade’s official Red Seal occupational title approved by the CCDA. This standard covers tasks performed by oil heat system technicians.
Oil heat system technicians install, repair, maintain and retrofit all types of oil-fired domestic and commercial appliances, equipment, components and systems. On new installations, they may design, assemble and install the heating and ventilation systems, install oil burner components such as control devices, associated wiring, chimney and venting systems, install fuel supply systems and connect the plumbing to mechanical and electrical systems. They may also install, maintain and repair wood/oil heating systems.
Oil heat system technicians work in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. They may be self-employed or employed by heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) installation and service companies.
Service calls and emergency calls may take place anytime: days, evenings or weekends. Full time and seasonal employment opportunities are available.
Oil heat system technicians must have good mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills and good customer relations skills. A good understanding of basic electrical/electronic theory and “The House as a System” is also required. They may give cost estimates for required work and explain the operation and maintenance of appliances and systems.
This standard recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, gasfitters, plumbers and sheet metal workers.
Experienced oil heat system technicians may advance into supervisory and management positions, move into self-employment or become mentors and trainers of apprentices.