• Read reminders and short notes from co-workers, e.g. read notes from service managers to learn about upcoming meetings. (1)
• Read short instructions written on signs, labels and packaging, e.g. read product labels to learn how to mix coolants. (1)
• Read short text entries on a variety of forms and technical drawings, e.g. read comments on work orders to learn about vehicle repairs required. (1)
• Read safety-related information, e.g. read Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to learn how to safely handle refrigerants used for automotive cooling systems. (2)
• Read bulletins and memos, e.g. read bulletins to learn about upcoming staff meetings. (2)
• Read manufacturers' notices and technical service bulletins, e.g. read technical service bulletins to learn about recurring faults with particular models and approved repair procedures. (3)
• Read magazine and website articles to stay current and broaden their knowledge of the automobile service industry. (3)
• Read instruction manuals for the use of computerized tools and equipment, e.g. read user guides to learn how to operate equipment, such as scan tools. (3)
• Read a variety of paper-based and electronic repair manuals to learn how to troubleshoot, service and maintain vehicles, e.g. read manuals to learn how to repair electrical system faults. (3)
• Read and interpret government regulations, e.g. read regulations to learn about vehicle inspection procedures, hazardous material disposal and the roadworthiness requirements of vehicles. (4)

• Observe hazard and safety icons, e.g. scan icons affixed to engine components to learn about burn and electrical shock hazards. (1)
• Scan a variety of manufacturers' labels to locate part numbers, serial numbers, sizes, colours and other information. (1)
• Complete a variety of forms, e.g. complete job estimates by entering details, such as dates, times and estimated repair costs. (2)
• Interpret flowcharts, e.g. interpret a multi-step flowchart to learn how to troubleshoot a faulty electrical system. (2)
• Enter repair and service data into work orders, corrective action forms and computerized data management systems, e.g. enter the time spent, parts used and steps taken to repair vehicles. (3)
• Interpret graphs generated by computerized equipment, such as scan tools, to troubleshoot faults and establish the condition of vehicle components. (3)
• Locate data, such as classifications, material coefficients, identification numbers, quantities and costs, in complex specification tables. (3)
• Interpret complex technical drawings, e.g. study assembly drawings to determine the position of parts within complex transmissions and scan wiring system schematics to locate capacities and components, such as circuits, and troubleshoot faults. (4)

• Write brief notes, e.g. describe needed repairs on work orders and vehicle inspection forms. (1)
• Write brief emails, e.g. write emails to request help for unusual or difficult repairs. (2)
• May write reports to describe events leading up to workplace accidents, e.g. write about injuries and events when completing reports for workers' compensation boards. (2)
• May write short notes on Web forums and technical support sites to request and provide repair information, e.g. provide detailed explanations and descriptions using technical language. (3)
• May write longer letters for police and insurance investigations to describe the causes and results of accidents. (3)

• May receive cash, credit and debit card payments from customers and make change. (1)
• May submit receipts for reimbursement from petty cash for the purchase of materials and supplies. (1)
• Take a variety of measurements using basic tools that measure temperature and oil pressure readings to determine operational status of vehicles, e.g. measure the length of parts using tape measures and scales. (1)
• Compare measurements of energy, dimension, speed, horsepower, temperature and torque to specifications, e.g. compare the measurements of amperage to original equipment manufacturers' specifications to determine the operating condition of batteries and electrical systems. (1)
• Estimate the amount of time required to complete repairs. (1)
• Calculate amounts of glycol and water and oil and gas mixtures, e.g. use ratios to calculate amounts for oil and gas mixtures. (2)
• May calculate the effect that repairs and modifications have on engine performances, e.g. use formulae to determine net horsepower gains realized by modifying components, such as fuel and exhaust systems. (2)
• Estimate the useful life remaining for parts, such as tires, brake pads and exhaust systems. (2)
• Take precise measurements using specialized tools, e.g. measure mechanical parts, such as cylinder walls, brake disks and bearings using calipers, dial micrometers and plastigauge strips. (3)
• Analyze pressure, power, torque, compression and electrical energy readings to assess vehicle performance and troubleshoot faults, e.g. analyze a series of electrical readings produced by computerized scan tools to determine the cause of charging system faults. (3)

• Listen to announcements made over public address systems. (1)
• Speak to partspersons and suppliers, e.g. talk to suppliers to order parts and establish delivery times. (1)
• May talk to customers to respond to questions and complaints, gather information about needed repairs, explain vehicle maintenance procedures and discuss the results of inspections and repairs. (2)
• Talk to service managers about a wide variety of topics, e.g. discuss billing procedures, work assignments and methods to enhance customer service. (2)
• Exchange technical repair and troubleshooting information with apprentices, co-workers, colleagues and manufacturers, e.g. explain complex repair procedures to apprentices and discuss unusual electronic control module faults with manufacturers' technical representatives. (3)

• Decide the order of repair and maintenance jobs, e.g. give priority to small tasks that can be turned around quickly. (1)
• Decide which tools to use, procedures to follow and tests to perform to diagnose and repair vehicles. (1)
• Judge the accuracy of readings taken using equipment, such as gas analyzers and dynamometers. They compare readings to other indicators of engine performance, such as vibration and noise. (1)
• Find information on stickers, labels, assembly drawings, repair manuals and websites to determine proper use, application and installation of parts and supplies. (1)
• Are unable to meet repair deadlines due to heavy workloads and projects which take longer than anticipated to complete. They ask their service managers to prioritize repairs, enlist the help of co-workers and may work overtime to complete high priority work. (2)
• Are unable to repair vehicles because specifications and instructions are unavailable. They consult service managers, co-workers, suppliers and colleagues for advice and research websites to locate useable information. (2)
• Find that work is delayed due to equipment breakdowns and incorrect or unavailable parts. They inform service managers about delays and carry out other work until equipment repairs are completed and the needed parts and supplies arrive. (2)
• Decide that a vehicle component cannot be repaired. They consider the condition of parts and regulations governing vehicle roadworthiness requirements. (2)
• May evaluate the performance of apprentices. They consider apprentices' abilities to diagnose and troubleshoot vehicle faults, locate information, such as specifications, and complete repairs effectively. (2)
• Judge the condition of parts, e.g. inspect sprockets for signs of cracks, missing teeth and loose fit. They examine tires and belts for signs of cracks and exposed cords. (2)
• May be assigned jobs, one work order at a time, or as a set of multiple work orders to be completed during a day. If there is flexibility in job choice, they prioritize jobs for efficiency, taking care of routine or smaller jobs first to allow more time for complex repairs. They may be assigned jobs based on areas of expertise. Most technicians work on one job at a time unless co-workers need assistance or work is delayed until parts arrive. Their planning must allow for unexpected occurrences, such as emergency jobs for fleet customers who rely on their vehicles for work. (2)
• Access online databases, choosing from a list of car makes and models for assembly and schematic drawings of parts, hierarchical systems and subsystems, part lists, installation procedures and standard labour times for specific jobs. (2)
• Review displays on computerized scanning equipment, onboard vehicle sensors and hand-held diagnostic tools to gain operational information about vehicles. (2)
• Decide the most efficient course of action to complete particular jobs, e.g. determine troubleshooting and the order of tasks to efficiently diagnose and repair vehicle faults. (3)
• Evaluate the severity of vehicle defects and deficiencies. They consider criteria, such as roadworthiness regulations, safety and harm to the environment. (3)
• Evaluate the quality of repairs. They consider the results of test drives and data from equipment, such as gas analyzers and scan tools. (3)
• Locate information about mechanical faults by reviewing work orders, completing test drives and physical inspections, using scan tools and by speaking with customers and co-workers. (3)
• Locate troubleshooting and repair procedures for unusual faults by calling technical support lines, requesting assistance on Internet blogs and website forums and by reading repair manuals and technical service bulletins. (3)

• Use calculators and personal digital assistant (PDA) devices to complete numeracy-related tasks, such as calculating material requirements. (1)
• Use hand-held devices, such as multimeters, to take electrical energy readings. (1)
• May write letters to customers, police and insurance brokers to present the results of mechanical inspections. (2)
• May use specialized automotive service databases to access job assignments, input information on new jobs, retrieve and review past service information and complete work orders. (2)
• May use databases to retrieve repair information and technical drawings. (2)
• May exchange email with other technicians, service managers, colleagues at other locations and manufacturer support specialists. (2)
• Communicate with other mechanics on blogs and forums to provide advice and learn how to repair unusual vehicle faults. (2)
• May visit manufacturers' websites to access recent technical service bulletins, parts and component information, recall notices, frequently asked questions and specifications. (2)
• May use the Internet to access articles to stay current on industry trends and practices. (2)
• May use the Internet to access training courses and seminars offered by suppliers, employers and sector councils, e.g. learn about air conditioning systems by accessing videos, learning guides and exams delivered over the Internet by the Canadian Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) Council. (2)
• Use diagnostic equipment (e.g. scan tools) to determine operational data, such as horsepower, torque, pressure readings and air-to-fuel ratios. (2)
• Use computerized equipment, such as wheel alignment machines, to complete repairs. (2)

Most automotive service technicians work independently on jobs outlined in work orders. They may assist others with jobs that require two people or are within their specific area of expertise.

Constant change in the industry makes it important for automotive service technicians to stay current with the latest technology. They learn on the job, in organized information activities and in work discussion groups. Their training is provided by vehicle manufacturers, parts suppliers, employers, associations and the Canadian Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) Council. They also advance skills by reading work-related magazines, periodicals and automotive websites.

All essential skills are affected by the introduction of technology in the workplace. Automotive service technicians' ability to adapt to new technologies is strongly related to their skill levels across the essential skills, including reading, writing, thinking and communication skills. Technologies are transforming the ways in which workers obtain, process and communicate information, and the types of skills needed to perform in their jobs. Automotive service technicians need a broad range of computer skills to diagnosis and repair sophisticated electronic vehicle systems. In fact, they are not able to perform key job tasks without these skills. For example, workers may use hand-held devices, such as multimeters, to take electrical energy readings, or use diagnostic equipment (e.g. scan tools) to determine operational data, such as horsepower, torque, pressure readings and air-to-fuel ratios. Workers may also use the Internet to access training courses and seminars offered by suppliers, employers and sector councils.

Technology in the workplace further affects the complexity of tasks related to the essential skills required for this occupation. The sophisticated electronic circuitry of vehicles has increased the complexity of wiring schematics and other diagrams. In contrast, electronic databases and keyword search functions make it easier to find information, such as specifications. While workers need the skills to use increasingly complex software applications, software and hardware developers are also improving ease of use through touch-screen technology, built-in self-help tutorials and more user-friendly software applications. Workers can also complete documents, calculate costs, material requirements, conversions, electrical resistance, volumes and rates with speed and accuracy using Web-based applications, specialized automotive software, calculators and hand-held devices, such as personal digital assistants (PDAs).

• Read reminders and short notes, e.g. read short notes from co-workers to learn about the priority of repairs. (1)
• Read short instructions written on labels and packaging, e.g. read labels to determine whether products, such as oils, are warranty-approved. (1)
• Read short comments on a variety of forms, e.g. read comments on work orders to learn about equipment faults and required repairs. (1)
• Read bulletins and memos, e.g. read memos to learn about changes to operating procedures, such as hours of work. (2)
• Read manufacturers' notices, e.g. read manufacturers' notices, such as technical service bulletins, to learn about recalls and new warranty procedures. (3)
• Read magazine and website articles to keep current and broaden their knowledge of the truck and transport service industry. (3)
• Read instruction manuals for the use of electronic equipment, e.g. read manufacturers' instructions for the use of gas analyzers, scan tools and wheel alignment equipment. (3)
• Read a variety of paper-based and electronic repair manuals, e.g. read manuals to learn how to troubleshoot and repair faults to electrical, mechanical and cooling systems. (3)
• Read and interpret government regulations, e.g. read regulations that specify vehicle inspection procedures and the roadworthiness requirements of trucks and transports. (4)

• Locate part numbers, serial numbers, sizes, colours and other information on labels. (1)
• Enter data, such as times and dates, into time cards, tally sheets and log books. (1)
• Interpret flowcharts, e.g. interpret multi-step flowcharts to learn how to troubleshoot faulty electrical and mechanical systems. (2)
• Complete a variety of forms, e.g. complete truck inspection forms by entering information, such as identification numbers, makes, sizes and readings; and by checking boxes to indicate the condition of components, such as tires, belts and hoses. (2)
• Study graphed data generated by diagnostic equipment and on-board computer systems, e.g. locate data, such as duration, speed and revolutions per minute, on tachographs. (3)
• Locate data, such as classifications, material coefficients, part interchangeabilities, identification numbers and quantities, in complex specification tables. (3)
• Interpret complex technical drawings, e.g. study complex assembly drawings to locate the position of parts within transmissions and other complex mechanical systems. (4)

• Write reminder notes to co-workers, e.g. write notes to warn workers on other shifts about defective equipment. (1)
• Write comments in the remarks sections of forms, e.g. write comments about defects uncovered during preventative maintenance inspections. (1)
• May write reports to describe events leading up to workplace accidents, e.g. write about injuries and events when completing reports for workers' compensation boards. (2)
• May write reports for insurance claims that precisely describe the results of inspections. (3)

• May submit receipts for reimbursement from petty cash for the purchase of materials and supplies. (1)
• Take a variety of measurements using basic tools, e.g. measure the lengths and angles of components using tape measures and protractors. (1)
• Compare measurements of energy, dimension, speed, horsepower, temperature and torque to specifications, e.g. compare the measurements of spark plugs to specifications to determine their suitability. (1)
• Estimate the amount of time required to complete repairs. (1)
• May calculate the effect that repairs and modifications have on engine performance, e.g. use formulae to determine net horsepower gains realized by modifying components, such as fuel systems. (2)
• Calculate summary measures, e.g. calculate average fuel and oil consumption rates to track the operating condition of trucks. (2)
• Estimate the useful life remaining for parts, such as tires, brake pads and exhaust systems. (2)
• Estimate the cost to complete repairs. (2)
• Estimate the weight of loads to determine whether the weight of the load plus the weight of the trailer is within legal limits. (2)
• Use precise measuring instruments to measure the thickness of parts and the depth of counter bores. (3)
• Analyze pressure, power, torque, compression and electrical energy readings to assess truck performance and troubleshoot faults, e.g. analyze a series of electrical readings produced by computerized engine analyzers to establish the cause of charging-system faults. (3)

• Listen to announcements made over public address systems. (1)
• Talk to co-workers, such as stockroom personnel, about the availability of parts and supplies. (1)
• Talk to service managers about a wide variety of topics, e.g. discuss work assignments, repair procedures and the condition of tools and equipment. (2)
• Contact other mechanics to find out what repairs were previously performed on a vehicle and discuss how to carry out difficult repairs. (2)
• May talk to customers, e.g. speak with customer to respond to questions and complaints, gather information about necessary repairs, explain truck maintenance procedures and discuss the results of inspections and repairs. (2)
• Exchange technical repair and troubleshooting information with apprentices, co-workers, colleagues and manufacturers, e.g. discuss troubleshooting strategies with manufacturers' technical representatives. (3)

• May find that they are not able to complete specialty repairs due to a lack of appropriate tools. They borrow the required tools from co-workers or from colleagues working at other repair shops. (1)
• Are unable to repair vehicles because specifications and instructions are unavailable. They consult service managers, co-workers, suppliers and colleagues for advice and research websites to locate useable information. (2)
• Find that work is delayed due to equipment breakdowns and incorrect or unavailable parts. They inform service managers about delays and carry out other work until equipment repairs are completed and the needed parts and supplies arrive. (2)
• May have difficulty gaining access to trucks needing repairs. They contact dispatchers to find a mutually agreeable time and schedule repairs for weekends or evenings as required. (2)
• Decide whether to repair or replace components, such as suspensions, tie rods or tires, based on manufacturer specifications, wear, safety considerations and company policy. (2)
• May evaluate the performance of apprentices. They consider apprentices' abilities to diagnose and troubleshoot truck faults and perform repairs. (2)
• Judge the condition of parts, e.g. inspect clutch plates for signs of wear and couplings and hoses for signs of cracks. (2)
• Plan on a short term basis and react to work orders. There may be several days' notice of major repairs, such as doing a complete in-frame overhaul. There may be some regular cyclical activity, such as overhauling a fleet of fire trucks. There is some uncertainty in scheduling when major, unanticipated problems are found when doing a disassembly. Disruptions occur when an urgent request comes from another customer, such as a driver who cannot start their vehicle. There are also disruptions when customers call with technical questions. Truck and transport mechanics organize their own activities in a logical order. They may be called away from time to time to help another mechanic who requests assistance. Coordination with co-workers is important to the efficiency of the shop. (2)
• Review displays on computerized scan tools, onboard vehicle sensors and hand-held diagnostic tools to learn about the operating condition of truck components. (2)
• Decide the most efficient course of action to complete particular jobs. For example, they may decide to service transmissions before completing other repairs. (3)
• Decide whether a load is safe to be brought into the shop. This decision is based on knowledge of dangerous goods and hazardous materials. (3)
• Evaluate the severity of vehicle defects and deficiencies. They consider criteria, such as manufacturer specifications, roadworthiness regulations and the safety of drivers, passengers and other motorists. (3)
• Evaluate the quality of repairs. They consider the results of test drives and physical inspections and data collected from equipment, such as gas analyzers and scan tools. (3)
• Locate information about mechanical faults by reviewing work orders, completing test drives and physical inspections, using scan tools and by speaking with customers and co-workers. (3)
• Locate troubleshooting and repair procedures for unusual faults by calling technical support lines, requesting assistance on Internet blogs and website forums and by reading repair manuals and technical service bulletins. (3)

• May use calculators and personal digital assistant (PDA) devices to complete numeracy-related tasks, such as calculating material requirements. (1)
• May use specialized fleet maintenance databases to access job assignments, input information about repairs, retrieve previous repair histories and complete work orders. (2)
• May exchange email with co-workers, service managers, colleagues at other repair shops and help desk technicians employed by suppliers and manufacturers. (2)
• May use databases to retrieve repair information and technical drawings. (2)
• May use browsers and search engines to access technical service bulletins and recall notices. (2)
• Use the Internet to access online manuals that provide information about how to troubleshoot and repair equipment faults. (2)
• Access online articles posted by suppliers, manufacturers and associations to keep current on industry trends and practices. (2)
• May use the Internet to access training courses and seminars offered by suppliers, employers and associations. (2)
• May use the Internet to access blogs and forums to provide and seek advice about unusual vehicle faults. (2)
• Use hand-held devices to download data from on-board computers and sensors. (2)
• Use computerized equipment, such as wheel alignment machines, to complete repairs. (2)
• Use diagnostic equipment, such as scan tools and gas analyzers, to determine the operational condition of engines and other drive train components. (2)

Truck and transport mechanics spend most of their time working independently, although they work with partners from time to time on tasks that require lifting. They may work alone if an urgent job needs to be completed after regular working hours. They are part of a team that includes other mechanics, service managers and parts and warehouse personnel.

Truck and transport mechanics learn from attending manufacturers' seminars and from training programs that are available as programmed learning on laptops. They also view videotapes that illustrate how to use new equipment or how to troubleshoot effectively. They attend computer courses and specialty courses, such as those relating to handling propane and using refrigerants. They learn about repairs, such as how to service braking systems and take courses offered by suppliers at no or little cost.

All essential skills are affected by the introduction of technology in the workplace. Truck and transport mechanics' ability to adapt to new technologies is strongly related to their skill levels across the essential skills, including reading, writing, thinking and communication skills. Technologies are transforming the ways in which workers obtain, process and communicate information, and the types of skills needed to perform in their jobs. Truck and transport mechanics rely heavily on computerized tools and equipment, such as gas analyzers and scan tools, to diagnose and repair faults. They also require digital skills for tasks not directly related to repair activities. For example, they use communication programs to share email messages with co-workers and colleagues and they may use the Internet to access specifications, technical support and online training. Requirements for digital skills will increase as truck technologies advance.

Technology in the workplace further affects the complexity of tasks related to the essential skills required for this occupation. Not only has the sophisticated electronic circuitry of vehicles increased the complexity of wiring schematics and other diagrams, but workers also need the skills to use increasingly complex software applications, such as fleet maintenance software. On the other hand, electronic databases and keyword search functions make it easier to find information, such as specifications. Workers can also complete documents (e.g. work orders), with speed and accuracy using specialized software applications that input data automatically. In addition, they can calculate costs, material requirements, conversions, electrical resistance, volumes and rates using Web-based applications, specialized automotive software and hand-held devices, such as personal digital assistants (PDAs).

• Read notes from supervisors giving work instructions for a particular trailer. (1)
• Read service bulletins and up-grade sheets from manufacturers that provide troubleshooting and diagnostic information. (2)
• Read Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) guidelines as part of required training. (2)
• Read a variety of trade magazines to learn about trailer repair. (2)
• Read step-by-step instructions given on labels. For example, they will read the installation instructions given on a 5th Wheel Rebuild Kit. (2)
• Read directives from the Ministry of Transport, such as an instruction to pull off all wheels to make an effective safety inspection. (2)
• Read Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to locate information about hazardous materials encountered on the shop floor. (3)
• Read manuals to find service, troubleshooting, and repair information. (3)
• May read about new product information and procedures on suppliers' websites. (3)

• Identify WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) icons on the shop floor. (1)
• Complete checklists. For instance, they will fill in the Power Unit checklist. Some checklists have up to 50 items. (1)
• May make drawings. For example, they will sketch the outline of a trailer indicating the part of the trailer requiring structural repair. (1)
• May use conversion charts when converting from metric to imperial. (2)
• May construct simple assembly drawings. For example, they will make a drawing to show how one piece of metal should fit within another, providing all necessary measurements. (2)
• Read and enter words, numbers, codes, and short notes on service/preventative maintenance sheets. (2)
• Read instructions on work orders and fill in information such as mechanic identification, trailer information, time estimates and actual time of work, part numbers, and short notes about the completed work. (2)
• Complete government inspection certificate checklists. They fill in vehicle information, mechanic identification, and inspections codes. For each inspection item, a reference number is given that corresponds to a page number in the manual. The manual gives the method of inspection and acceptance criteria. (3)
• Interpret troubleshooting diagrams and charts in service manuals. Some of the charts may use colour to differentiate information. For example, the Trailer Systems Troubleshooting Guide uses 9 colours, each showing different valves and boosters. (3)
• Use schematic drawings. For instance, they will look at a wiring schematic for a trailer when checking for problems with a heater. (3)

• Fill in words and phrases and write short notes on work orders, service/preventative maintenance sheets and inspection forms. (1)
• May write notes to the supervisor explaining problems with a particular trailer or repair process. (1)
• May write notes to the parts department or supervisor requesting service manuals. (1)

• Track and adjust the amount of time that has been scheduled to complete various tasks. (1)

• Measure the length of a piece of metal to be cut. (1)
• May need to convert millimetres to inches when working with parts or manufacturers' specifications from the United States. (2)
• Calculate the area of an inside trailer wall to be re-fitted with plywood panels. (2)
• Measure the distance from the wheel rim to the kingpin on the roadside and curbside of a trailer when inspecting the alignment of the front axle on a trailer, keeping the proper tension on the tape measure to ensure an accurate reading. They calculate the difference between the measurements to 1/16th inch, and if the axle needs to be adjusted, they repeat the process until the measurements meet specifications. (3)
• Measure the width of one light and the length of the filler plate, then determine the placement of the lights on the filler plate based on the measurements taken and the number of lights to be used. After laying out the lights, they measure to see that the lights are evenly spaced. (3)
• Measure brake lining thickness using vernier calipers and measure brake drum diameter and eccentricity using a dial indicator. (3)

• Check reefer unit hours on the control unit to monitor maintenance and inspection requirements. (1)
• Compare the measurement of wear on a tire tread to Department of Transport specifications. (1)

• Estimate the amount of time to complete a job listed on a work order based on knowledge of work processes and time requirements. (1)

• Ask co-workers for assistance. (1)
• Discuss with co-workers the work that needs to be done on a specific trailer. (1)
• Request parts from the parts department. (1)
• May talk to government inspectors that visit the shop. (1)
• May talk to a driver about the problems with a particular trailer. (1)
• May discuss with customers their concerns with a particular trailer. (2)
• Ask for and receive verbal instructions from the supervisor. (2)
• May advise the supervisor of inspection failures and may offer solutions to the problem. (2)
• Communicate with manufacturers' representatives during training seminars about new products and procedures. (2)
• Provide detailed advice to apprentices learning the trade. (3)
• May coach co-workers on repair and inspection procedures. (3)

• May find that they do not have a part they require for a particular job. They will talk to the supervisor to discuss the options, which include using a part from another manufacturer, building a part, or contacting the supplier to order a new part. (1)
• May find that a job is taking longer than expected. They will advise the supervisor of the situation and give reasons for the delay. They will be asked to estimate the additional time needed to complete the job. (1)
• May find that they need help with a particular job. They will ask a co-worker to help if the time required is small. If help is needed for a longer period of time, they will advise the supervisor of the number of people needed and an estimation of the time commitment necessary to complete the work. (2)
• May encounter a trailer with water damage on the inside of the trailer. They first determine the source of the problem from a number of possibilities. If they believe there is a crack or hole, they will use a hose to spray water on the outside of the trailer and look for the source of the problem on the inside of the trailer. They will then make the necessary repairs. (2)
• May work on a unit where the battery that keeps dying. They check for a bad connection, a problem with the alternator, or dirty terminals. If the cause is not found, they will replace the battery. (3)
• May work on a trailer where a problem with dimming lights has been identitied. They first eliminate the truck as the source of the problem. Using another power outlet, they check each of the components on the unit to diagnose where the problem is. They then make the repair that is needed. (3)

• Decide what parts are needed for a job. (1)
• Decide when to leave one job to begin working on another trailer that has just come in to the shop based on their assessment of priorities and availability of parts. The supervisor will have input into this decision. (2)
• Decide what type of welding machine, material or procedure is best suited for a particular job, based on criteria such as the requirements of the job and the standard needed for the repair. There may not be a set procedure in place. (3)
• Decide to correct an item on a trailer because they believe there is a safety concern even though the acceptance criteria is met at the time of inspection. (4)

Critical Thinking information was not collected for this profile.

Most job task planning for Transport Trailer Technicians is short range, dealing with immediate needs. Work orders prepared by the supervisor govern the job tasks for each day. The Transport Trailer Technicians will choose a work order and then decide how to sequence the tasks. They organize their tools and the parts required at the beginning of each job. When there is a job requiring more than one person, they will co-ordinate the work with others. If the supervisor gives priority to another job, they will leave the trailer they are working on to do the job, and then return to the first trailer once the work is complete. A weekly schedule may be used, with some jobs being planned for several days in advance. (4)

• Remember where they left off on a job.
• Remember codes used on work orders, service/preventative maintenance sheets and inspection forms.
• Remember inspection information they gathered while working under the trailer long enough to write it down on the service/inspection sheet.
• Remember the number and pattern of a blinking light until they can check the corresponding number and pattern in the ABS blink code diagnostic chart when troubleshooting possible Anti-lock Braking System faults.

• Access WHMIS and other safety information from materials kept at the safety/ first aid station. (1)
• Consult the repair manual or inspection manual for information about requirements and procedures. (1)
• Look up information in suppliers' flyers and catalogues. (1)
• Ask co-workers and supervisors for information or advice about a particular problem they are having with a trailer. (2)
• May access service manuals and product information through suppliers' websites. (2)

• They enter number, codes and short notes on work orders, service/preventative maintenance sheets, and inspection forms. (1)
• They will check a spreadsheet on the computer screen showing each trailer's history when looking for a pattern of problems. (1)
• They access supplier's websites. (2)

Transport Trailer Technicians work independently on specific jobs, but are generally working with others, such as co-workers and supervisors. They may also work jointly with apprentices.

Transport Trailer Technicians are required to take WHMIS training. They keep up-to-date on changes in the industry through interaction with suppliers and from training offered at the workplace. On their own initiative, they will find information about new products and procedures in manuals and manufacturers' written materials, on videos, and from trade magazines. They can locate the information by requesting materials from work or by accessing it on the internet. Apprentices learn by watching and assisting experienced journeypersons. Formal training is provided through technical training institutes or colleges.