Qualifying Occupations for Federal Skilled Worker

Engineering managers plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities of an engineering department, service or firm. They are employed by a wide range of private sector and government establishments and by consulting engineering and scientific research companies.

Engineering managers perform some or all of the following duties

• Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities and operations of an engineering department, service or firm
• Develop and implement policies, standards and procedures for the engineering and technical work performed in the department, service, laboratory or firm
• Consult and negotiate with clients to prepare specifications, explain proposals and present engineering reports and findings
• Assign, co-ordinate and review the technical work of the department or project teams
• Recruit personnel and oversee development and maintenance of staff competence in required areas
• May participate directly in the design, development and inspection of technical projects or in the engineering work of the department.

Financial and investment analysts collect and analyze financial information such as economic forecasts, trading volumes and the movement of capital, financial backgrounds of companies, historical performances and future trends of stocks, bonds and other investment instruments to provide financial and investment or financing advice for their company or their company's clients. Their studies and evaluations cover areas such as takeover bids, private placements, mergers or acquisitions. Financial analysts are employed by a wide range of establishments throughout the private and public sector, such as banks, brokerage houses, insurance companies, investment companies, manufacturing firms, trust companies, utility companies and underwriting firms. Investment analysts are employed primarily by brokerage houses and fund management companies.

 Financial analysts perform some or all of the following duties

• Evaluate financial risk, prepare financial forecasts, financing scenarios and other documents concerning capital management, and write reports and recommendations
• Plan short- and long-term cash flows and assess financial performance
• Analyze investment projects
• Advise on and participate in the financial aspects of contracts and calls for tender
• Follow up on financing projects with financial backers
• Develop, implement and use tools for managing and analyzing financial portfolio
• Prepare a regular risk profile for debt portfolios
• Assist in preparing operating and investment budgets.

Investment analysts perform some or all of the following duties:

• Collect financial and investment information about companies, stocks, bonds and other investments using daily stock and bond reports, economic forecasts, trading volumes, financial periodicals, securities manuals, company financial statements and other financial reports and publications
• Examine and analyze financial and investment information collected, including profiles of companies, stock and bond prices, yields and future trends and other investment information
• Provide investment advice and recommendations to clients, senior company officials, pension fund managers, securities agents and associates
• Prepare company, industry and economic outlooks, analytical reports, briefing notes and correspondence.

Geoscientists include geologists, geochemists and geophysicists who conduct programs of exploration and research to extend knowledge of the structure, composition and processes of the earth, to locate, identify and extract hydrocarbon, mineral and groundwater resources and to assess and mitigate the effects of development and waste disposal projects on the environment. Oceanographers conduct programs of exploration and research on ocean processes and phenomena, biological, chemical and physical characteristics of oceans, interactions with atmospheric and geological environments and impacts of human activity on oceans and marine ecosystems. Geoscientists are employed by petroleum and mining companies, consulting geology, geophysics and engineering firms and by governments and educational institutions, or they may be self-employed. Oceanographers are employed by governments, educational institutions and private companies engaged in exploration of seafloor deposits and seafarming areas, or they may be self-employed.

Geoscientists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct theoretical and applied research to extend knowledge of surface and subsurface features of the earth, its history and the operation of physical, chemical and biological systems that control its evolution
• Plan, direct and participate in geological, geochemical and geophysical field studies, drilling and geological testing programs
• Plan and conduct seismic, electromagnetic, magnetic, gravimetric, radiometric, radar and other remote sensing programs
• Plan, direct and participate in analyses of geological, geochemical and geophysical survey data, well logs and other test results, maps, notes and cross sections
• Develop models and applied software for the analysis and interpretation of data
• Plan and conduct analytical studies of core samples, drill cuttings and rock samples to identify chemical, mineral, hydrocarbon and biological composition and to assess depositional environments and geological age
• Assess the size, orientation and composition of mineral ore bodies and hydrocarbon deposits
• Identify deposits of construction materials and determine their characteristics and suitability for use as concrete aggregates, road fill or for other applications
• Conduct geological and geophysical studies for regional development and advise in areas such as site selection, waste management and restoration of contaminated sites
• Recommend the acquisition of lands, exploration and mapping programs and mine development
• Identify and advise on anticipated natural risks such as slope erosion, landslides, soil instability, subsidence, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions
• May supervise and co-ordinate well drilling, completion and work-overs and mining activities.

Oceanographers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct theoretical and applied oceanographic research programs and expeditions to extend knowledge of the physical, chemical and biological properties and functioning of oceans
• Plan, direct and participate in sampling and analysis of seawater, plankton, fish, sediments and rocks
• Study physical properties of oceans to develop models, charts and computer simulations of ocean conditions, such as tides, waves, currents and sediment transport
• Explore ocean floor and submarine geological structures, conduct seismic surveys and study formation of ocean basins and other structures to map ocean floor, coastal erosion, sediment accumulation and areas for offshore oil and gas exploration
• Plan and conduct investigations on ocean chemical properties and processes, ocean floor and marine atmosphere and undersea volcanoes to study impacts of environmental changes
• Study marine life and interaction with physical and chemical environments to assess impacts of pollutants on marine ecology and to develop ecologically-based methods of seafarming.

Geologists may specialize in fields such as coal geology, environmental geology, geochronology, hydrogeology, mineral deposits or mining, petroleum geology, stratigraphy, tectonics, volcanology or in other fields.Geochemists may specialize in analytical geochemistry, hydrogeochemistry, mineral or petroleum geochemistry or in other fields.Geophysicists may specialize in areas, such as petroleum geology, earth physics, geodesy, geoelectromagnetism, seismology or in other fields.Oceanographers may specialize in biological, chemical, geological or physical oceanography, or in other fields related to the study of oceans.

Civil engineers plan, design, develop and manage projects for the construction or repair of buildings, earth structures, powerhouses, roads, airports, railways, rapid transit facilities, bridges, tunnels, canals, dams, ports and coastal installations and systems related to highway and transportation services, water distribution and sanitation. Civil engineers may also specialize in foundation analysis, building and structural inspection, surveying, geomatics and municipal planning. Civil engineers are employed by engineering consulting companies, in all levels of government, by construction firms and in many other industries, or they may be self-employed.

Civil engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Confer with clients and other members of the engineering team and conduct research to determine project requirements
• Plan and design major civil projects such as buildings, roads, bridges, dams, water and waste management systems and structural steel fabrications
• Develop construction specifications and procedures
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate building and construction materials
• Interpret, review and approve survey and civil design work
• Conduct field services for civil works
• Ensure construction plans meet guidelines and specifications of building codes and other regulations
• Establish and monitor construction work schedules
• Conduct feasibility studies, economic analyses, municipal and regional traffic studies, environmental impact studies or other investigations
• Monitor air, water and soil quality and develop procedures to clean up contaminated sites
• Conduct technical analyses of survey and field data for development of topographic, soil, hydrological or other information and prepare reports
• Act as project or site supervisor for land survey or construction work
• Prepare contract documents and review and evaluate tenders for construction projects
• Supervise technicians, technologists and other engineers and review and approve designs, calculations and cost estimates.

Mechanical engineers research, design and develop machinery and systems for heating, ventilating and air conditioning, power generation, transportation, processing and manufacturing. They also perform duties related to the evaluation, installation, operation and maintenance of mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers are employed by consulting firms, by power-generating utilities and in a wide range of manufacturing, processing and transportation industries, or they may be self-employed.

Mechanical engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation and performance of mechanisms, components and systems
• Plan and manage projects, and prepare material, cost and timing estimates, reports and design specifications for machinery and systems
• Design power plants, machines, components, tools, fixtures and equipment
• Analyze dynamics and vibrations of mechanical systems and structures
• Supervise and inspect the installation, modification and commissioning of mechanical systems at construction sites or in industrial facilities
• Develop maintenance standards, schedules and programs and provide guidance to industrial maintenance crews
• Investigate mechanical failures or unexpected maintenance problems
• Prepare contract documents and evaluate tenders for industrial construction or maintenance
• Supervise technicians, technologists and other engineers and review and approve designs, calculations and cost estimates.

Chemical engineers research, design, and develop chemical processes and equipment, oversee the operation and maintenance of industrial chemical, plastics, pharmaceutical, resource, pulp and paper, and food processing plants and perform duties related to chemical quality control, environmental protection and biochemical or biotechnical engineering. Chemical engineers are employed in a wide range of manufacturing and processing industries, consulting firms, government, research and educational institutions.

Chemical engineers perform some or all of the following duties

• Conduct economic and technical feasibility studies in areas related to chemical, petroleum, pulp and paper, food or other processing industries
• Conduct research into the development or improvement of chemical engineering processes, reactions and materials
• Evaluate chemical process technology and equipment and determine production specifications
• Design and test chemical processing and associated plants and equipment
• Oversee the construction, modification, operation and maintenance of pilot plants, processing units or processing plants
• Establish and conduct quality control programs, operating procedures and control strategies to ensure consistency and adherence to standards for raw materials, products and waste products or emissions
• Prepare contract documents and evaluate tenders for the process aspects of industrial construction
• Supervise technicians, technologists and other engineers
• May work in an administrative capacity, for example, in the development of guidelines and specifications for the handling of dangerous chemicals, environmental protection, or standards for foods, materials and consumer goods.

Chemical engineers may specialize in the products and processes of a particular industry such as pulp and paper manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, petroleum refining, energy processing, plastics, metal extraction and refining, or adhesives and coatings production. They may also specialize in functional areas of various industries such as process control, pollution control or fermentation processes.

Mining engineers plan, design, organize and supervise the development of mines, mine facilities, systems and equipment; and prepare and supervise the extraction of metallic or non-metallic minerals and ores from underground or surface mines. Mining engineers are employed by mining companies, consulting engineering companies, manufacturers, government and in educational and research institutions.

Mining engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct preliminary surveys and studies of ore, mineral or coal deposits to assess the economic and environmental feasibility of potential mining operations
• Determine the appropriate means of safely and efficiently mining deposits
• Determine and advise on appropriate drilling and blasting methods for mining, construction or demolition
• Design shafts, ventilation systems, mine services, haulage systems and supporting structures
• Design, develop and implement computer applications such as for mine design, mine modelling, mapping or for monitoring mine conditions
• Plan and design or select mining equipment and machinery and mineral treatment machinery and equipment in collaboration with other engineering specialists
• Plan, organize and supervise the development of mines and mine structures and the operation and maintenance of mines
• Prepare operations and project estimates, schedules and reports
• Implement and co-ordinate mine safety programs
• Supervise and co-ordinate the work of technicians, technologists, survey personnel, and other engineers and scientists.

Geological engineers conduct geological and geotechnical studies to assess suitability of locations for civil engineering, mining and oil and gas projects; and plan, design, develop and supervise programs of geological data acquisition and analysis and the preparation of geological engineering reports and recommendations. Geological engineers are employed in consulting engineering companies, electrical utilities, mining and petroleum companies and in government and research and educational institutions.

Geological engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Plan, develop and co-ordinate programs of geotechnical, geological, geophysical or geohydrological data acquisition, analysis and mapping to assist in the development of civil engineering, mining, petroleum and waste management projects or for regional development
• Analyze and prepare recommendations and reports for construction or improvements to foundations of civil engineering projects such as rock excavation, pressure grouting and hydraulic channel erosion control
• Analyze and prepare recommendations and reports on settlement of buildings, stability of slopes and fills, and probable effects of landslides and earthquakes to support construction and civil engineering projects
• Conduct theoretical and applied study of groundwater flow and contamination and develop prescriptions for site selection, treatment and construction
• Plan, develop, co-ordinate and conduct theoretical and experimental studies in mining exploration, mine evaluation and feasibility studies relative to the mining industry
• Conduct surveys and studies of ore deposits, ore reserve calculations and mine design
• Design, develop and implement computer applications for geophysics, geochemistry, geology, mapping and related fields
• Supervise technologists, technicians and other engineers and scientists.

Petroleum engineers conduct studies for the exploration, development and extraction of oil and gas deposits; and plan, design, develop and supervise projects for the drilling, completion, testing and re-working of oil and gas wells. They are employed by petroleum producing companies, consulting companies, well logging or testing companies, government, and research and educational institutions.

Petroleum engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct feasibility assessment studies for developing new oil and gas fields
• Direct and monitor oil and gas drilling operations
• Develop drilling programs, select sites and specify drilling fluids, bit selection, drill stem testing procedures and equipment
• Direct and monitor the completion and evaluation of wells, well testing and well surveys
• Design and select artificial lift machinery, and well and surface production equipment and systems, and specify programs for corrosion control and oil or gas treatment
• Develop specifications for and monitor and supervise well modification and stimulation programs to maximize oil and gas recovery
• Analyze reservoir rock and fluid data to design optimum recovery methods and to predict reservoir performance and reserves
• Monitor and forecast oil and gas reservoir performance and recommend oil recovery techniques which extend the economic life of wells
• Design, develop and co-ordinate the installation, maintenance and operation of subsea well-head and production equipment.

Petroleum engineers may specialize in drilling, production, reservoir analysis or subsea operations.

Aerospace engineers research, design and develop aerospace vehicles, aerospace systems and their components, and perform duties related to their testing, evaluation, installation, operation and maintenance. They are employed by aircraft and spacecraft manufacturers, air transport carriers, and in government and educational and research institutions.

Aerospace engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Design and develop aerospace vehicles, systems and components such as aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, satellites and space-based communication systems
• Develop and conduct computer simulations of aerospace vehicles, systems and components using advanced mathematical modeling
• Prepare specifications for materials and processes to be used in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair or modification
• Supervise and co-ordinate the manufacturing, assembly, modification, repair and overhaul of aircraft and spacecraft
• Co-ordinate ground and flight tests of air and spacecraft
• Develop operational specifications, maintenance schedules and manuals for operators
• Develop the technical phases of logistical and operational support for aerospace vehicles and systems
• Investigate and report on structural or other component or system failures, accidents or incidents and prepare recommendations for corrective action.

Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) research, plan, design, develop, modify, evaluate and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware and related equipment, and information and communication system networks including mainframe systems, local and wide area networks, fibre-optic networks, wireless communication networks, intranets, the Internet and other data communications systems. They are employed by computer and telecommunication hardware manufacturers, by engineering, manufacturing and telecommunications firms, in information technology consulting firms, by governmental, educational and research institutions and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors.

 Computer and telecommunications hardware engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Analyze user's requirements, and design and develop system architecture and specifications
• Research, design, develop and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware such as microprocessors, integrated circuit boards and semiconductor lasers
• Develop and conduct design verification simulations and prototype bench tests of components
• Supervise, inspect and provide design support during the manufacturing, installation and implementation of computer and telecommunications hardware
• Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers and clients
• May lead and co-ordinate teams of engineers, technologists, technicians and drafters in the design and development of computer and telecommunications hardware.

Network system and data communication engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Research, design and develop information and communication system network architecture
• Research, evaluate and integrate network system and data communication hardware and software
• Assess, document and optimize the capacity and performance of information and communication system networks
• May lead and co-ordinate teams of design professionals in the development and integration of information and communication system architecture, hardware and software.

Computer engineers may specialize in a number of areas including analog and digital signal processing, fibre optics, integrated circuits, lasers, microprocessors, microwaves and radio astronomy.

Land surveyors plan, direct and conduct legal surveys to establish the location of real property boundaries, contours and other natural or human-made features, and prepare and maintain cross-sectional drawings, official plans, records and documents pertaining to these surveys. They are employed by federal, provincial and municipal governments, private sector land surveying establishments, real estate development, natural resource, engineering and construction firms, or they may be self-employed.

Land surveyors perform some or all of the following duties:

• Develop survey plans, methods and procedures for conducting legal surveys
• Plan, direct and supervise or conduct surveys to establish and mark legal boundaries of properties, parcels of lands, provincial and Canada Lands, Aboriginal land claims, wellsites, mining claims, utility rights-of-way, roadways and highways
• Survey and lay out subdivisions for rural and urban development
• Determine precise locations using electronic distance measuring equipment and global positioning systems (GPS)
• Analyze, manage and display data using geographic information systems (GIS) and computer-aided design and drafting (CAD)
• Record all measurements and other information obtained during survey activities
• Prepare or supervise the preparation and compilation of all data, plans, charts, records and documents related to surveys of real property boundaries
• Certify and assume liability for surveys made to establish real property boundaries
• Advise, provide consultation and testify as an expert witness on matters related to legal surveys.

Computer programmers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for microcomputer and mainframe software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software and communications software. Interactive media developers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for Internet applications, computer-based training software, computer games, film, video and other interactive media. They are employed in computer software development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors.

 Computer programmers perform some or all of the following duties

• Write, modify, integrate and test software code
• Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required
• Identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions
• Prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software
• Assist in the collection and documentation of user requirements
• Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications
• May lead and co-ordinate teams of computer programmers
• May research and evaluate a variety of software products.

Interactive media developers perform some or all of the following duties

• Program animation software to predefined specifications for interactive CDs, DVDs, video game cartridges and Internet-based applications
• Program special effects software for film and video applications
• Write, modify, integrate and test software code for e-commerce and other Internet applications
• Assist in the collection and documentation of user requirements
• Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications
• May lead and co-ordinate teams of interactive media developers
• May research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products.

Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics repair, maintain, calibrate, adjust, and install industrial measuring and controlling instrumentation. They are employed by pulp and paper processing companies, nuclear and hydro power generating companies, mining, petrochemical and natural gas companies, industrial instrument and other manufacturing companies, and by industrial instrument servicing establishments.

Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics perform some or all of the following duties:

• Consult manufacturer's manuals, circuit diagrams and blueprints to determine tests and maintenance procedures for instruments used for measuring and controlling flow, level, pressure, temperature, chemical composition and other variables in manufacturing and processing
• Inspect and test operation of instruments and systems to diagnose faults using pneumatic, electrical and electronic testing devices and precision measuring instruments
• Repair and adjust system components, such as sensors, transmitters and programmable logic controllers, or remove and replace defective parts
• Calibrate components and instruments according to manufacturers' specifications
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance work and complete test and maintenance reports
• Install control and measurement instruments on existing and new plant equipment and processes
• Consult with and advise process operators.

Inspectors in this unit group evaluate and monitor health and safety hazards and develop strategies to control risks in the workplace. They inspect restaurants, public facilities, industrial establishments, municipal water systems and other workplaces to ensure compliance with government regulations regarding sanitation, pollution control, the handling and storage of hazardous substances and workplace safety. They are employed throughout the private and public sectors.

Inspectors in this unit group perform some or all of the following duties:

• Inspect the sanitary conditions of restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals and other public facilities or institutions
• Conduct surveys and monitoring programs of the natural environment to identify sources of pollution
• Collect samples of water for analysis; measure physical, biological and chemical workplace hazards; and conduct safety and environmental audits
• Investigate health and safety related complaints, spills of hazardous chemicals, outbreaks of diseases or poisonings and workplace accidents
• Inspect workplaces to ensure that equipment, materials and production processes do not present a safety or health hazard to employees or to the general public
• Develop, implement and evaluate health and safety programs and strategies
• Initiate enforcement procedures to fine or to close an establishment contravening municipal, provincial or federal regulations
• Provide consultation and deliver training programs to employers, employees and the general public on issues of public health, environmental protection or workplace safety.

Audiologists diagnose, evaluate and treat individuals with peripheral and central hearing loss, tinnitus and balance problems. Speech-language pathologists diagnose, assess and treat human communication disorders including speech, fluency, language, voice and swallowing disorders. Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are employed in hospitals, community and public health centres, extended care facilities, day clinics, rehabilitation centres and educational institutions, or may work in private practice. Audiologists and speech-language pathologists who are supervisors are included in this unit group.

Audiologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Develop and administer audiometric tests and examinations using specialized instruments and electronic equipment to diagnose and evaluate the degree and type of patients' hearing impairment
• Plan and implement habilitation/rehabilitation programs for patients, including selection, fitting and adjustment of amplification devices, such as hearing aids, and teaching speech (lip) reading
• Provide information to patients and families regarding the nature, extent, impact and implications of hearing loss and treatment
• Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
• Conduct research related to hearing and hearing disorders
• May instruct and supervise audiometric technicians, students and other health care personnel.

Speech-language pathologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Administer tests and examinations and observe patients to diagnose and evaluate speech, voice, resonance, language, cognitive-linguistic and swallowing disorders
• Develop, plan and implement remedial programs to correct speech, voice, language, resonance, cognitive-linguistic and swallowing disorders
• Establish group and personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
• Provide advice and educational services to patients and families regarding communication and swallowing disorders
• Conduct research on speech and other communication disorders and on the development and design of diagnostic procedures and devices
• May instruct and supervise communicative disorders assistants, students and other health care personnel.

Physiotherapists assess patients and plan and carry out individually designed treatment programs to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain and prevent physical dysfunction in patients. Physiotherapists are employed in hospitals, clinics, industry, sports organizations, rehabilitation centres and extended care facilities, or they may work in private practice.

Physiotherapists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Assess patients' physical abilities through evaluative procedures such as functional ability tests
• Establish treatment goals with patients based on physical diagnoses
• Plan and implement programs of physiotherapy including therapeutic exercise, manipulations, massage, education, the use of electro-therapeutic and other mechanical equipment and hydro-therapy
• Evaluate effectiveness of treatment plans and modify accordingly
• Communicate with referring physician and other healthcare professionals regarding patients' problems, needs and progress
• Maintain clinical and statistical records and confer with other health care professionals
• Develop and implement health promotion programs for patients, staff and the community
• May conduct research in physiotherapy
• May provide consulting or education services.

Physiotherapists may focus their practice in particular clinical areas such as neurology, oncology, rheumatology, orthopedics, obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, in the treatment of patients with cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary disorders, burns or sports injuries or in the field of ergonomics.

Occupational therapists develop individual and group programs with people affected by illness, injury, developmental disorders, emotional or psychological problems and ageing to maintain, restore or increase their ability to care for themselves and to engage in work, school or leisure. They also develop and implement health promotion programs with individuals, community groups and employers. They are employed in health care facilities, in schools, and by private and social services agencies, or they may be self-employed.

Occupational therapists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Analyse clients' capabilities and expectations related to life activities through observation, interviews and formal assessments
• Develop intervention programs to address clients' needs related to self-care, work and leisure activities
• Maintain clients' records
• Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
• Consult and advise on health promotion programs to prevent disabilities and to maximize independent function in all activities of life
• May supervise support personnel and students and provide training.

Occupational therapists may specialize in working with specific populations such as children or adults, or persons with distinct problems such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and chronic pain, or provide special interventions such as return-to-work programs.

Medical laboratory technologists conduct medical laboratory tests, experiments and analyses to assist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. They are employed in medical laboratories in hospitals, blood banks, community and private clinics, research facilities and post-secondary educational institutions. Medical laboratory technologists who are supervisors are included in this unit group.

Medical laboratory technologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Set up, operate and maintain laboratory equipment
• Conduct chemical analyses of blood, urine, and cerebrospinal and other body fluids
• Study blood cells and other tissues to determine their relation to various physiological and pathological conditions
• Prepare tissue sections for microscopic examinations using techniques to demonstrate special cellular tissue elements or other characteristics
• Perform blood group, type and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes
• Establish procedures for the analysis of specimens and for medical laboratory experiments
• Conduct quality control assessment of testing techniques
• May supervise and train other medical laboratory technical staff, students and helpers
• May assist pathologists during autopsies.

Medical laboratory technologists may specialize in areas such as clinical chemistry, clinical microbiology, hematology, histotechnology, immunohematology, cytotechnology and cytogenetics.

Medical laboratory technicians conduct routine medical laboratory tests and set up, clean and maintain medical laboratory equipment. They are employed in medical laboratories in hospitals, clinics, research facilities, post-secondary educational institutions and government research laboratories. Pathologists' assistants assist at autopsies and examinations of surgical specimens or perform autopsies under a pathologist's supervision. They are usually employed in hospitals and universities.

Medical laboratory technicians perform some or all of the following duties:

• Collect blood, tissue and other samples from patients
• Log patient samples and prepare them for testing
• Set up medical laboratory equipment
• Conduct routine laboratory tests and sample analyses
• Perform quality assurance of testing techniques
• Clean and maintain medical laboratory and medical laboratory equipment.

Pathologists' assistants perform some or all of the following duties:

• Prepare for autopsies by obtaining patients' medical records and arranging for radiographic examinations
• Assist with or perform autopsies and surgical specimen examinations under pathologists' supervision
• Dissect, examine, weigh and photograph organs and specimens, collect tissue samples for chemical analysis and record findings
• Discard specimens according to established safety procedures
• Clean and maintain instruments, equipment and supplies
• May prepare bodies for release to funeral homes following completion of autopsies
• May supervise and train junior resident pathologists and morgue attendants.

Respiratory therapists assist physicians in the diagnosis, treatment and care of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. Clinical perfusionists provide technical support to patients undergoing cardiac surgery and patients requiring cardio-respiratory support. Cardiopulmonary technologists assist physicians in the technical aspects of diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease. Respiratory therapists are employed in hospitals, extended care facilities, public health centres and respiratory home care companies. Clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists are primarily employed in hospitals. Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists who are supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group.

Respiratory therapists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Perform diagnostic tests, such as arterial blood gas analysis and cardiopulmonary functions tests
• Operate and monitor respiratory equipment to administer treatments such as oxygen, oxygen-air mixtures, humidified air or medications
• Operate, monitor, maintain and test a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic equipment
• Assess patients and perform or assist with interventions such as airway maintenance, line insertions, inductions and intubations
• Perform artificial respiration and external cardiac massage
• Assist with transport of high-risk patients
• Supervise and train students and other respiratory therapists
• Participate in home care programs for chronic respiratory patients and provide patient and family education
• Participate in research related to cardiac and pulmonary disorders.

Clinical perfusionists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Assemble, maintain and operate extracorporeal circulation equipment, intra-aortic balloon pumps and other heart assist devices to support or temporarily replace patients' cardiopulmonary functions during open-heart surgery
• Administer blood products, drugs and other substances through heart-lung machines and other devices as directed by cardiac surgeons and anaesthetists to maintain adequate flow of oxygenated blood to all organs of the body
• Monitor vital signs to support and maintain patients' physiological functions and metabolic needs during cardiopulmonary surgery
• Participate in routine maintenance, calibration and inspection of all perfusion related equipment
• Supervise and train student clinical perfusionists and other clinical perfusionists.

Cardiopulmonary technologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Perform diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function and asthma stress, or assist physicians with cardiac and cardiopulmonary stress tests and bronchoscopies
• Determine patients' blood characteristics such as activated clotting time and oxygen saturation
• Operate, monitor, maintain, calibrate and test diagnostic and therapeutic equipment
• Monitor patients and advise physician of any changes in patients' condition
• Prepare medications and administer inhaler and other treatments under supervision of cardiologist
• Provide information and care for patients during tests
• Assist with the preparation of cardiac catheterization room, prepare specialized catheters and assist cardiologists during catheterization
• Perform analysis, programming and monitoring of implanted devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators during surgery
• Supervise and train students and other cardiopulmonary technologists
• Provide technical support for research.

Respiratory therapists may specialize in areas such as anaesthesia, critical care, pediatrics, cardiopulmonary diagnostics and respiratory home care.

This unit group includes technologists who operate radiographic and radiation therapy equipment to administer radiation treatment and produce images of body structures for the diagnosis and treatment of injury and disease. They are employed in hospitals, cancer treatment centres, clinics, radiological laboratories, colleges and universities. Medical radiation technologists who are supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group.

Radiological technologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Operate X-ray, radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, computerized tomography (CT) scanners, mammography units and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to produce radiographs or anatomic images of the human body for the diagnosis by radiologists of disease or injury
• Record and process patient data
• Perform basic verification and quality control checks on radiographic and film processing equipment
• Provide appropriate care and monitoring of the patient during the radiographic examination
• Explain procedures, position patient and equipment and apply radiation protection measures
• May train and supervise student radiographers or supervise other radiological technologists.

Nuclear medicine technologists perform some or all of the following duties

• Prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, such as radionuclides and other tracer materials to patients or to biological samples
• Operate radiation detection equipment, such as gamma cameras, scanners, scintillation counters, tomodensitometers and ionization chambers, to acquire data for use by nuclear medicine physicians in the diagnosis of disease
• Perform diagnostic procedures using radioactive materials on biological specimens, such as blood, urine and faeces
• Record and process results of procedures
• Check equipment to ensure proper operation
• Provide appropriate care and monitoring of the patient during the examination
• Apply radiation protection measures
• May train and supervise student nuclear medicine technologists or supervise other nuclear medicine technologists.

Radiation therapists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Operate linear accelerators, cobalt 60, X-ray and other radiation therapy equipment to administer radiation treatment prescribed by radiation oncologists
• Check radiation therapy equipment to ensure proper operation
• Assist radiation oncologists and clinical physicists with preparation of radiation treatment plan
• Assist in the preparation of sealed radioactive materials such as cobalt, radium, cesium and isotopes and the construction of devices such as plaster casts and acrylic moulds to assist with administration of radiation treatment
• Provide appropriate care and monitoring of the patient's physical and psychological well-being during the entire course of treatment
• Explain procedures and side effects of radiation
• May train and supervise student radiotherapy technologists or supervise other radiotherapy technologists.

Radiological technologists may specialize in areas such as computerized tomography, angiography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, interventional radiology, dosimetry, stereotaxy or brachytherapy.

Medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of various parts of the body to aid physicians in monitoring pregnancies and in diagnosing cardiac, ophthalmic, vascular and other medical disorders. They are employed in clinics and hospitals. Medical sonographers who are supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group.

Medical sonographers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Operate ultrasound imaging equipment that transmits high frequency sound pulses through the body to produce images of those parts of the body requiring examination
• Monitor examination by viewing images on video screen, to evaluate quality and consistency of diagnostic images, and make adjustments to equipment, as required
• Record, store and process scanned images by using camera unit connected to ultrasound equipment
• Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure patient safety and comfort
• Prepare examination reports for physicians to aid in the monitoring of pregnancies and the diagnosis of cardiac, abdominal, ophthalmic, vascular and other disorders
• Perform quality control checks on ultrasound equipment to ensure proper operation and perform minor repairs and adjustments as required
• May supervise and train student and other medical sonographers.

Medical sonographers may specialize in abdominal, cardiac, cerebral, obstetrical and gynaecological, ophthalmic, intraluminal or peripheral vascular sonography. They may also specialize in adult or pediatric echocardiography or neurosonology.

Cardiology technologists operate electrocardiogram and other electronic equipment to record cardiac activity of patients to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of heart disease. Electrophysiological diagnostic technologists, not elsewhere classified, operate electroencephalographic, electromyographic and other electrophysiological diagnostic equipment to assist physicians in diagnosing diseases, injuries and abnormalities. Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists who are supervisors or instructors are included in this unit group. They are employed in clinics, hospitals and medical laboratories.

Cardiology technologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Operate electrocardiogram and other electronic equipment to record cardiac activity of patients
• Perform cardiovascular procedures and tests, such as electrocardiograms, exercise tolerance tests, ambulatory monitoring and scanning of tapes, holter arrhythmia scanning, pacemaker analysis and follow-up
• Record and assess cardiac activity and provide preliminary reports of tests
• Provide patients with care during procedures and tests
• Prepare reports for interpretation by cardiologists
• Reprogram pacemakers according to required standards
• Check, calibrate and perform routine maintenance of cardiology equipment to ensure proper operation
• May analyze tests and notify physician or other health care professionals of abnormalities
• May administer certain drugs under direct supervision of physician
• May document and record pacemaker implant threshold measurements under direct supervision of cardiac surgeon
• May supervise and train students, other cardiology technologists and nurses.

Electrophysiological technologists perform some or all of the following duties:

• Review patient's case history and assess nature of problem to determine procedures and tests required
• Attach diagnostic equipment to patients and ensure their comfort and safety
• Operate diagnostic equipment such as electroencephalographic and evoked potential equipment to record the electrical activity of the brain and cranial and central nervous systems
• Operate electromyographic equipment to conduct electrophysiological nerve conduction velocity tests and to assist physicians in conducting electrophysiological tests such as muscle strength and repetitive stimulation
• Take notes on the recorded graph to identify interference such as poor electrode contact or patient movement
• Prepare recordings and reports of findings for physicians to aid in the diagnosis of neurological disorders
• Check, calibrate and perform routine maintenance of diagnostic equipment
• Train and supervise students, technicians or other electroencephalograph technologists.