Second Class
Power Engineer Certification
Overview
The Second Class Power Engineer certificate of qualification allows you to be:
- Chief engineer of a plant with a corresponding or lower class
- Shift engineer of a plant up to one class higher than the class of this certificate
- A person-in-charge of any type or size of refrigeration plant
To obtain this certificate, you'll need to meet certain eligibility requirements. You will also need to pass an evaluation and six certification exams.
General Eligibility
To apply for your Second Class Power Engineer certificate, you must have one of the following:
- Third Class Power Engineer certificate
- Corresponding Canadian credential
- First Class Marine Engineer (motor) certificate of competency
Exam Eligibility
To apply for your certification exams, you must meet the general eligibility requirements for this class.
For more information on our exams visit the Exam Information page.
How to Apply For Certification
To apply, log in to your Online Services account and select "Apply for a new certificate" under the certification tab. Don't have an account? Sign up now.
If you wish to apply by mail, please fill out the Contact Us form to request a paper form.
How to Apply For Examination
Once you have submitted your application and paid the applicable fee, we will evaluate your qualifications. If you’re successful, we will contact you and you will be able to apply for this certification's exams.
Once you have been approved to apply for the exam, log in to your Online Services account to find your available exam and choose your preferred exam dates, times, and locations. You will not be able to book your exam until we notify you that you are eligible.
About These Exams
You must pass the following six exams. Each exam is 3 hours long, and you must achieve a minimum grade of 65% on each exam to pass. All details on the subject areas of study can be viewed in the second class power engineer syllabus.
- Part A Multiple Choice 2A1
- Part A Multiple Choice 2A2
- Part A Multiple Choice 2A3
- Part B Multiple Choice 2B1
- Part B Multiple Choice 2B2
- Part B Multiple Choice 2B3
You will have three chances to pass; after each attempt, applicants will receive a Notification Letter from Technical Safety BC that details the marks achieved and highlights areas that need improvement. An exam re-write fee applies to each additional attempt.
If you fail an exam, you will will need to wait 30 days after the previous examination to rebook. If you fail your third or any subsequent attempt, you must request permission to take a fourth or further attempts, with additional time required between each attempt.
Evaluation Eligibility
To apply for evaluation, you must pass all of your certification exams, be employed while in possession of a Third Class Power Engineer certificate, a corresponding Canadian credential, or a First Class Marine Engineer (motor) certificate of competency, and complete one of the following:
- 24 months as chief engineer of a third class plant
- 24 months as a shift engineer or as an assistant chief engineer of a second class plant
- 24 months as an assistant shift engineer or an assistant engineer, performing duties approved by a provincial safety manager, at a first class plant
Qualifying Time Credits
- If you have successfully completed an approved second class power engineering course, the required periods of employment can be reduced by nine months. Refer to this list of approved courses and course providers
- If you hold a mechanical engineering degree (Canadian or equivalent), the required period of employment for the positions and types of plants can be reduced by 12 months
Apply for Evaluation
To apply, please complete the plant operating experience form 1026. Once you've filled it in, log in to your Online Services account, start your certificate application and follow the steps to upload the completed form and submit your application. Your proof of experience form will be reviewed by a Provincial Safety Manager. Don't have an account? Sign up now.
If you wish to submit your form by mail, please address it to:
Suite 600 - 2889 East 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5M 4T5.
Related Information
Certification Renewal
Ready to renew your Power Engineer certificate? Here’s what you need to know.
Learn MoreTransfer to BC
In order to perform work as a Power Engineer in BC you will need to transfer over your qualifications and experience.
Learn MoreFind a Training Provider
Find a recognized training provider to complete necessary Power Engineer courses, to meet minimum eligibility requirements.
Learn More