what is an installer?
As an installer, you are a service professional in charge of fixing, installing, or positioning a product or system in a designated location. You perform the necessary set-up tasks to ensure items are ready for operation. Your job is to ensure all equipment has been installed properly and safely.
Installers perform a diverse range of tasks, depending on the industry they work in. For instance, in the construction industry, installers fix windows and doors in designated locations. You also install sliding doors and drywall in buildings. When you work in construction, you should be familiar with building regulations. It is also important to understand the blueprints to ensure doors and walls are fixed in the right positions. In information technology (IT) or telecommunications companies, you work as a cable installer, responsible for installing and servicing cable wires.
Aside from installing equipment, you also explain operation and maintenance information to users. Sometimes, you are expected to provide ongoing support. Since you interact with customers while installing the equipment and walls, you require good customer service skills. When installing new equipment, you also use your troubleshooting skills to resolve any problems that arise during installation.
Would working as an installer suit your troubleshooting skills and knowledge of using hand tools? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an installer role.
installer jobsaverage installer salary
According to Job Bank, the average salary of an installer in Canada is $48,750 per year. Your earnings fluctuate based on experience and the scope of your work. When you are new to the role, you start with a salary of $39,975 per year. The most experienced installers take home over $63,394 annually.
what factors affect the salary of an installer?
The main factor influencing your earnings as an installer is the scope of your work. You may earn a lower salary installing doors or windows in a house, whereas installing drywall attracts a higher salary. Performing technical installations like solar panel installation or working as a cable installer may also increase your salary prospects.
As an installer, you work in construction or the service industry. The size of the company you work for influences your earnings. When you work in a small company, you handle minor installations and earn a lower salary. Working in large organizations increases your earning potential due to the complexity of your tasks. Besides, large companies have unlimited resources and can afford higher salaries.
types of installers
Installers work in various industries and install different equipment or fixtures in residential and commercial buildings. The types of installers are based on the equipment they install, including:
- solar panel installers: your job is to install solar panels on roofs and other surfaces. You also connect panels to the electrical grid when needed and perform routine maintenance.
- flooring installers: as a flooring installer, you install carpet, tiles, and hardwood floors in residential or commercial spaces. You laminate floors by nailing down the planks or installing vinyl flooring in commercial settings, such as offices and retail stores.
- window installers: as an installer, you are responsible for fixing new windows and replacing old ones. You also repair broken windows by sealing gaps around the window frames and installing window shades or blinds.
- appliance installers: as an appliance installer, you install appliances in homes and commercial properties, such as refrigerators, heaters and air conditioners. You also fix broken appliances or replace them as needed.
- door installers: as a door installer, you fix doors in new construction projects. You measure and cut materials using hand tools to ensure the doors fit properly. You also install door jambs, knobs and deadbolts.
working as an installer
Installers work in construction, information technology or the service industry. Let’s explore the specific duties, work environments and responsibilities of installers.
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what does an installer do?
While installers perform diverse duties based on the items they install, some of the common tasks include:
- reading blueprints and work order specifications: as an installer, you fix windows, doors and drywall in their respective positions. You need a strong understanding of blueprints and work order specifications. You interpret blueprints to determine the ideal location in the building to install drywall and equipment.
- measuring and layout: as an installer, you measure the floors or walls to prepare the site for installation. For instance, if you are installing drywall, you accurately measure and market the locations for the drywall panels. It is important to ensure proper alignment and layout before installation commences.
- cutting and installing windows, doors, tiles or drywall: as an installer, you prepare windows and doors for installation. You cut drywall panels or tiles into desired shapes and sizes using hand tools or specialized cutting equipment. You also fix windows and doors in place using screws to ensure the panels fit properly and securely.
- repairing and patching: aside from installing new windows or drywall, you also repair or replace old walls. You remove deteriorated drywall and replace it with a new wall. You can replace damaged sections or install new panels entirely. It is important to ensure the replacement matches the existing texture and has a perfect finish.
- ensuring safety and cleanliness: as an installer, you ensure the worksite is safe and clean by adhering to site safety protocols. You remove debris and clean the work area after installing windows or tiles on the floors.
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work environment of an installer
As an installer, your work environment depends on the projects you work on. For instance, when you work at building sites in the construction industry, you wear protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses and gloves. You are also exposed to different weather conditions in the construction industry. As a cable installer, you work at high heights and spend most of the day standing or bending.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on the industry you work in, you are likely to work with construction project managers, electricians, general labourers and HVAC technicians. You may also collaborate with IT technicians, plumbers and maintenance technicians. You also work with construction workers and service technicians.
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installer work schedule
The typical work schedule of an installer depends on the company they work for. In construction companies, you are likely to work up to 40 hours a week. In some projects, you start your work day early in the morning. Aside from full-time positions, you can also find part-time installer roles. Since you also perform maintenance jobs, you may be called on to fix windows or doors over the weekend or during the evening.
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career opportunities as an installer
Working as an installer in Canada is a promising career, offering you numerous growth opportunities. You also have various opportunities to specialize in a specific field. For instance, in construction, you can specialize in the installation of doors, windows, drywall or solar panels. Alternatively, improve your qualifications and become a cable installer or an IT technician. Some installers become maintenance technicians or field service technicians.
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advantages of finding a job as an installer through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- Always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- Many training opportunities
- A range of jobs in your area
installer skills and education
Some of the educational requirements for becoming an installer in Canada include:
- educational qualifications: while post-secondary qualification is not mandatory, you require on-the-job training in installation, servicing and repairing. Some technical roles require additional training. For instance, in telecommunication line and cable installation, you should complete a four-year apprenticeship program or three years of combined experience in the trade.
- work experience and certifications: the requirements for working in construction differ from the IT industry. For instance, as a cable installer in Canada, you may require licensing in certain provinces. In Manitoba, cable workers require a license from the Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC). In New Brunswick, cable workers must obtain Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification, which is regulated by the Government of New Brunswick. Additionally, swimming pool, hot tub and spa installers need certification from Skilled Trades Ontario.
competencies and characteristics of installers
Some of the qualities of an installer include:
- attention to detail: as an installer, your installation duties require attentiveness to detail. For instance, you should be keen when removing flooring or measuring the site to install drywall. When you are detail-oriented, you can match the texture of the old walls with the new ones to ensure the finished work meets the client's needs.
- communication skills: as an installer, you work closely with clients, so it's important to have good communication skills. Your communication skills help you talk to clients, listen to their requirements, and explain technical requirements in simple terms. Your written communication skills are also useful in writing progress reports and preparing production schedules.
- time management: as an installer, it is important to adhere to project timelines, especially for large construction projects. For instance, other tradespeople could be waiting for floor installers to finish their work before they can complete their own tasks. Hence, adhering to deadlines reduces your chances of inconveniencing other tradespeople.
- physical stamina: as an installer, you perform physically demanding work. Being physically fit helps you lift heavy materials and minimize workplace injuries.
FAQs about installer jobs
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an installer.
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what are the duties of an installer?
As an installer, you perform tasks related to installing equipment or fixtures in residential or commercial buildings. You travel to homes and businesses to install or repair windows, door frames and drywall. Some typical duties include fixing units, sealing fittings and taking accurate measurements of the walls.
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what is the difference between an installer and a technician?
As an installer, you are responsible for installing or replacing new drywall, windows or doors. You replace old drywall with a new panel and fix damaged parts. A technician, on the other hand, focuses on maintaining and repairing existing fixtures and equipment.
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what kind of job is an installer?
Installers are service professionals who assemble equipment and install fixtures in offices and residential areas. The role requires knowledge of reading blueprints and product specifications. You should be familiar with using different tools.
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how much do you make as an installer in Canada?
As an installer, you earn an average salary of $48,750 annually in Canada. When you are new to the role, you start with a lower annual salary of $39,975. With experience, you are likely to take home over $63,394 per year.
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what are the qualities of an installer?
As an installer, your work is physically demanding, so you require a good amount of physical stamina. It is also important to have good manual dexterity since you frequently work with hand tools.
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how do I find a job as an installer?
Finding a job near you as an installer is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
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