What Does a Truck-Trailer Service Technician Do?

Truck-Trailer Service Technicians service, repair, overhaul, diagnose and inspect truck-trailers and their various related systems and components.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

Reviewing work orders and discussing work to be performed with the supervisor
Inspecting, diagnosing and repairing: electrical systems; landing gear assemblies and trailer frames; hitching/coupling systems; trailer bodies; suspensions systems; tires, wheels, hubs and axles; air and auxiliary systems; braking systems; heating and refrigeration systems as well as ventilation devices and hydraulic systems
Using hand tools and various specialized diagnostic equipment to diagnose, isolate and repair faults
Testing and adjusting repaired systems to manufacturer's performance specifications
Performing scheduled maintenance service
Advising customers on work performed, general trailer condition and future work required
Communicating effectively with co-workers, customers and service managers
Reading and interpreting owner/operator/manufacturer operating manuals and service specifications
Keeping up-to-date on technology and upgrading skills as required

To view the Essential Skills necessary for someone to work in this occupation, click on the following link and scroll down to NOC code 7321:

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

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To become a Truck-Trailer Service Technician, you need your grade 12 or equivalent, with courses in math, English and related subjects such as in-school technical programs, coop programs or the OYAP program a definite asset. You must complete a 4000 hour apprenticeship via on-the-job and in-school training. You may complete your in-school training at a community college such as Centennial College.

What’s Your Future as a Truck-Trailer Service Technician?

Most Truck-Trailer Service Technicians work full-time, 40 hours per week with a single employer. Some may work in mobile units. The job involves exposure to pollutants such as noise, liquids, fumes and odours, and there is always some risk of injury involved in working around large equipment. Employment in this trade is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2007 due to a large number of retiring tradespeople. Employers who hire Truck-Trailer Service Technicians include:

Trailer Manufacturers
Sales and Repair Facilities & Garages
Municipally, Provincially or privately owned Trucking, Bus or Transportation Companies

Check out our Success Story article on Bryant Trailer Services Inc in Brampton Ontario for additional information about this occupation.

Wage Rate

Apprentices generally earn less than fully qualified Journeypeople
Wages increase as your ability and productivity increase
Fully qualified Truck-Trailer Service Technicians can earn from $16.00-$28.00/hour

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as Truck-Trailer Service Technician for You?

Can you lift, stoop, bend, kneel and work in confined spaces?	Yes No
Do you enjoy tinkering and fixing engines and other equipment?	Yes No
Do you like finding out why something doesn't work, and then fixing it?	Yes No
Do you like working with your hands, using a variety of tools?	Yes No
Can you communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors or customers?	Yes No
Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?	Yes No
Do you have the physical stamina to be on your feet, standing on concrete flooring, bending down and reaching up frequently?	Yes No