Job Description
Automotive service technicians (AST) inspect, diagnose, repair (replace) and service mechanical, electrical and electronic systems and components of passenger cars and light trucks. This includes engine, vehicle management, hybrid, steering, braking, drive train, suspension, electrical, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
They also work on restraints, trim and accessories. ASTs also perform major repair and replacement of mechanical units on newly assembled motor vehicles. Technicians may choose to specialize in engine and fuel systems, brakes, drivelines, suspension, electrical and electronic systems or diagnostic services.
Technicians inspect vehicles, road test vehicles and test automotive systems and components using computerized diagnostic and other testing devices to diagnose and isolate faults in vehicles.
An AST tests and adjusts repaired systems to manufacturer’s performance specifications.
Performing scheduled maintenance service such as oil changes, lubrication and tune-ups are a fundamental part of AST job duties.
In addition, depending on the size/structure of the service repair facility, ASTs advise customers on work performed, general vehicle condition and future repair requirements.
Salary
Average Salaries by Region
| Region | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Canada | $63,119 |
| British Columbia | $61,039 |
| Alberta | $70,825 |
| Saskatchewan & Manitoba | $67,551 |
| Ontario | $65,663 |
| Quebec | $52,533 |
| Atlantic Provinces | $49,166 |
Occupation Outlook
Forecast: Total jobs over 5 years
| Region | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BC | 11,277 | 11,631 | 12,075 | 12,512 | 12,959 | 13,418 |
| Alberta | 12,944 | 13,112 | 13,529 | 13,935 | 14,353 | 14,787 |
| Saskatchewan & Manitoba | 7,525 | 7,599 | 7,816 | 8,028 | 8,249 | 8,482 |
| Ontario | 34,286 | 35,293 | 36,482 | 37,630 | 38,786 | 39,939 |
| Quebec | 23,713 | 24,097 | 24,730 | 25,341 | 25,982 | 26,650 |
| Atlantic provinces | 7,321 | 7,363 | 7,520 | 7,669 | 7,826 | 7,991 |
Full Time & Part Time Breakdown
Full Time vs. Part Time Overall
Full Time in 2018
Part Time in 2018
Diversity
Education, Training & Experience
- Completion of a four-year automotive service technician apprenticeship program
or
A combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and high school, college or industry courses in automotive technology is required to be eligible for trade certification. - Trade certification for automotive service technicians is compulsory in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario and Alberta and available, but voluntary, in Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
- Red Seal endorsement is also available to qualify automotive service technicians upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination. (The Red Seal Interprovincial Standards Program, also known as Red Seal or simply IP, is a set of trade qualifications in Canada, jointly administered by the Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments.)
- Apprenticeship programs are available with apprentices working under certified automotive service technicians.
- Valid Driver’s License
- Candidates may be expected to lift weights up to 50lbs.
Trade Schools
- Algonquin College - Ottawa, ON
Job Openings
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