HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway is to finish secondary school, especially courses in math, science, and shop or mechanics if available. Many students then enter on-the-job training with an employer or take post-secondary training in automotive or heavy equipment repair, depending on the province or employer. Early experience often includes working as a helper or apprentice-style trainee, learning to use hand and power tools, read diagrams, and diagnose problems on large vehicles. As skills grow, workers may move into more complex repair, testing, and report writing for trucks and buses.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Inspect and test mechanical units, such as engines, transmissions, axles and brake systems, to locate faults and malfunctions
- Diagnose faults or malfunctions and confirm findings with supervisor to determine whether to repair or replace unit
- Repair or replace mechanical units or components using hand and power tools
- Test and adjust units to specifications for proper performance
- Complete reports to record problems and work performed.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Computerized equipmentDealing with the PublicGood Hand-eye CoordinationDiagrams/schematicsTaking Directions