Parts Technicians work in warehouses and terminals. They are active throughout their shifts performing several jobs, including locating parts, maintaining inventory, moving stock, and delivering parts to mechanics and technicians in their maintenance shops. They also spend time at a workstation, using computers to input inventory data. An ability to work with others and prioritize workloads is an asset as they work in what is considered to be a fast-paced environment.
Trucking HR
Career Assessment - Coming Soon
Associated NOC Code: 1522 – Storekeepers and Parts Persons
Job Prospects: In Demand
Education: Often Required
Salary Range: Coming Soon
As part of the maintenance team, Parts Technicians ensure that mechanics have the components they need to complete required repairs and maintenance, which is critical to keep freight moving.
Many Parts Technicians work shifts, including days, nights, weekends and holidays. While on the job they spend their time:
- Receiving, unloading and sorting incoming parts and supplies
- Storing items in an orderly and accessible way in the warehouse, tool room, supply room or other designated areas
- Locating parts and materials as needed, based on requests from technicians
- Processing incoming parts requests and issuing or distributing parts and supplies for work being completed within their maintenance departments
- Maintaining records of orders and the amount, kind and location of various parts and supplies on hand using manual or computerized inventory systems
- Ordering parts and supplies for inventory or specific jobs
- Arranging for, or conducting, parts pickups and deliveries
- Completing inventory reports, work orders, purchase orders, and receipts of goods and entry (either manually or using computerized software)
- Assisting technicians with parts lookups
- Processing and maintaining parts returns
- Participating in inventory and cycle counts
Each company is different. Most employers consider previous experience with parts and inventory management or work as a warehouse worker/material handler a strong asset. Often, employers are also looking for the following:
1. Educational Requirements
Employers usually require completion of high school/secondary school.
Some provinces offer an apprenticeship program and trade certification for Parts persons; however, this training and certification is voluntary.
2. Licencing Requirements
Some companies require Parts Technicians to deliver or pick up parts and inventory. If this is a job responsibility, a Class 5 driver’s license (passenger vehicle license) is required, along with a clean driving record.
Some companies require Parts Technicians to operate material handling equipment to manage inventory. If this is a job responsibility, training and certification to operate a forklift may be required (and is often provided by the company).
3. Physical Requirements
Depending on the company, the ability to lift upward of 50 pounds, work at heights, and manage parts inventory may be required and is site-specific.
4. Additional Skills
- Mechanical aptitude and general knowledge of the equipment is considered an asset
- Digital literacy, including data entry skills, is important for using inventory management software programs.
- Ability to read and interpret documentation, such as parts manuals, safety regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals and other workplace documentation, is valuable
- Basic mathematical skills to complete inventory counts are practical
Compensation for Parts Technicians depends on many factors, including the company, location, type of load/cargo, level of experience, type of equipment, and more. Benefits vary but often include (at minimum) basic medical, vision and dental coverage. Other benefits, such as vacation, pension, and profit-sharing, depend on the company and its compensation model.