What Does a Recreation Vehicle Mechanic Do?

Recreation Vehicle Mechanics service and repair recreational vehicles including fifth wheels, truck campers, trailers and motor homes.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Examining vehicles and assessing the extent of repairs
  • Inspecting and testing functional units, wiring, piping and components
  • Diagnosing problems and locating failures within the electrical, trailer brake, battery and charging systems as well as air conditioning systems, heaters, pumps, plumbing and propane gas lines
  • Preparing cost estimates, parts requisitions and work plans         
  • Communicating with customers and service managers about the functioning of the Recreational Vehicle
  • Reading vehicle manuals and consulting with manufacturers re: vehicle specifications
  • Removing, repairing and replacing exterior panels
  • Repairing and replacing structural frames
  • Installing accessories including air conditioning units, TV antennas and awnings
  • Performing final inspections of units prior to delivery

To view the Essential Skills necessary for someone working in this occupation, click on the following link and scroll down to RV Technician, NOC code 7383:

http://srv600.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/esrp/english/general/all_profiles.shtml

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

Completion of Grade 12 with a secondary school diploma, with credits in Math, Science and English is recommended. Enrolment in OYAP, coop, or obtaining technical credits in electrical systems or mechanics would be a definite asset. You can obtain a Certificate of  Apprenticeship after completing between 6,800-7,200 hours (approximately three years of a combination of on-the-job and in-school training).

Apprenticeship Subject Pathways provides additional information for students/parents/educators: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/training/apprenticeship/skills/pathwaye.pdf

What’s Your Future as a Recreational Vehicle Mechanic?

Recreational Vehicle Mechanics usually work indoors in repair shops, and may be required to lift loads weighing up to 25 kilograms. A standard 40 hour work week is the norm, and shifts may be required, including evenings, weekends and holidays. The nature of the work is also seasonal. Career progression within the trade can include Supervisory/Management positions. Check out the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association at: www.crva.ca for more information. Employers that hire Recreational Vehicle Mechanics include:

  • RV Dealerships
  • RV Repair shops
  • RV Manufacturers

Wage Rate

  • Apprentices generally earn less than Journeypeople
  • As your skills and expertise increase, so does your wage
  • On average, fully qualified Recreational Vehicle Mechanics can earn $18.00/hour or more

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Recreational Vehicle Mechanic for You?

Do you have a mechanical aptitude and enjoy learning and mastering different skills and doing a variety of work?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy communicating with co-workers and customers?

Yes      No

Do you have the physical stamina to work long hours in peak season?

Yes      No

Are you able to bend, kneel, lift, stoop and crouch?

Yes      No

Do you like to solve problems, find and implement solutions?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?

Yes      No

Do you take pride in persisting until the job is done just right?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Recreational Vehicle Mechanic may be for You!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Motorcycle Mechanic
  • Small Engine Repair
  • Automotive Service Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Farm Equipment Mechanic