Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers inspect, diagnose, repair and service mechanical, electrical and electronic systems and components of cars, buses, and commercial and light transport trucks.

With the increasing electrification and digitization of vehicles, mechanics and service technicians will have redefined skill sets that enable them to work on cutting edge automotive technologies, including software, electronics and computers. FOCAL projects an active job market for this occupational group, with 640 job openings over the next decade.

Where do Service Technicians, Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers work?

What do Service Technicians, Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers do?

Through routine maintenance, Service Technicians and Mechanics are responsible for making sure motor vehicles are roadworthy and in good condition. While the majority of time is spent performing diagnostic work and repairing faults in vehicles, service technicians and mechanics also have some administrative and customer service duties as well.

• Diagnose faults or malfunctions and confirm findings with supervisor to determine whether to repair or replace unit
• Inspect motor in operation, road test motor vehicle, and test automotive systems and components using computerized diagnostic and other testing devices to diagnose and isolate faults
• Test drive vehicles to ensure that motor, axle and brakes function properly
• Conduct inspections on both individual auto parts and fully assembled vehicles to verify that any defects have been identified and resolved

Career pathways & potential earnings of Technicians and Mechanics

Technicians and Mechanics can progress to other roles with the adequate experience and skills:

Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers can also apply their skills and expertise in other occupations such as the following:

• Other small engine and small equipment repairers
• Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics

How do I become a Service Technician, Mechanic and Mechanical Repairer?

There are varying requirements for the occupations within this group. Some requirements may vary by province or company. Below are the most commonly required qualifications to work as an Automotive service technician, Truck-trailer mechanic and Mechanical Repairer:

• Minimum Education: Completion of secondary school or a vocational program.
• Certification and Licensing: Four-year apprenticeship or equivalent in work experience and industry experience is required for trade certification as a truck and transport and truck-trailer mechanic as well as automotive service technician. Certification requirements vary by province or territory.
• Training and other requirements: Mechanical repairers may undergo two-to-three years of training provided by employers.

What are the most important skills to have as a Technician or Mechanic?

Service Technicians and Mechanics must have strong knowledge of mechanics, design and procedures to install and repair components of automobiles. Soft skills in customer service and communication are also important to create reports and properly assist customers seeking services.

Technical Knowledge and Skills

• Quality Control Analysis
• Equipment Maintenance
• System Analysis & Evaluation
• Troubleshooting
• Monitoring

Soft Skills

• Manual Dexterity
• Complex Problem Solving
• Control Precision
• Visualization
• Deductive Reasoning

Future of Technician and Mechanic jobs in Canada

In 2021, more than 146,500 Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers were employed across Canada. FOCAL projects more than 640 job openings between 2021 and 2030. FOCAL also forecasts that during the same period, more than 500 workers will be needed to fill the recruitment gap in the sector. As automobiles rapidly adapts to new industry standards like digital computer interfaces, electrical components, and electric vehicles, the sector will see a high demand for mechanics and technicians well-versed in electric and hybrid vehicles, and their associated technologies.

Learn more about the job market for Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers, as well as about many other developments and new technologies in Canada’s automotive manufacturing by visiting our website futureautolabourforce.ca. You can also check our social media by following these links: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.