Diesel engine mechanics

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

• Check bulldozers, cranes, graders and other heavy construction, agricultural, logging and mining equipment for proper performance and inspect equipment to detect faults and malfunctions

• Diagnose faults or malfunctions using computerized and other testing equipment to determine extent of repair required

• Adjust equipment and repair or replace defective parts, components or systems, using hand and power tools

• Test repaired equipment for proper performance and to ensure that work meets manufacturers' specifications

• Clean, lubricate and perform other routine maintenance work on equipment

• Service attachments and working tools such as harvesting and tillage equipment, blades, ploughs, winches and side booms

• May perform repair work on heavy trucks

• May attach components and adjust new farm equipment.

• Heavy-duty mechanics may specialize in specific types of machinery such as combines or tracked vehicles, or in engine overhaul, power shift transmissions, fuel injection, hydraulics or electronics.

• Completion of secondary school and training courses or a vocational program is usually required.

• Completion of a three- to five-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over four years of work experience and industry courses in heavy equipment repair is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.

• Heavy-duty equipment technician trade certification is compulsory in Quebec (only in the construction industry) and Alberta and available, but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.

• The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.

• Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.