Transport Refrigeration Technicians spend their days:

• Maintaining and completing scheduled maintenance and inspections on transport refrigeration units, performing diagnostics using scanners, electronic testing equipment and onboard computers
• Troubleshooting, diagnosing and repairing trailer refrigeration unit and associated component issues
• Preparing new refrigeration units for service, starting up systems and testing for leaks.
• Assembling and installing refrigeration components such as motors, controls, gauges, valves, circulating pumps, condensers, humidifiers, evaporators and compressors using hand and power tools, welding and soldering equipment, and refrigeration equipment
• Recharging systems with refrigerant, checking and testing regulators and calibrating the system, and testing for Freon leaks
• Providing assistance and direction to drivers who experience issues with their refrigerated trailers while on the road
  • Some transport refrigeration technicians are part of road-side mechanic crews and will complete repairs en-route to keep drivers on schedule

Working Conditions

Working in maintenance shops and terminals means working on concrete floors, surrounded by loud noises, which is why Transport Refrigeration Technicians wear comfortable steel-toed boots and ear protection. Also, they work with a range of lubricants, oils and greases, making it necessary to wear proper clothing and gloves.

Transport Refrigeration Technicians often work in cold, cramped and confined spaces when repairing refrigeration equipment. They work with various coolants, high-pressure gasses and chemicals that must be handled safely to prevent personal injury or harm.

Although requirements of applicants will vary by province and employer, the following may apply:

1. Educational Requirements

• Completion of high school/secondary school is usually required
• Completion of a 3-5 year apprenticeship program and trade certification as a Transport Refrigeration Technician or a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic may be required
• Ozone depletion certificate is required in some provinces (the company may also provide this training)

Trade Certification

Trade certification for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (not specific to transport) is compulsory in NS, NB, QC, ON, MB, SK and AB. It is available but voluntary in all other provinces and territories. Individuals with their trade certification can perform the tasks of a Transport Refrigeration Technician.

Red Seal endorsement is available to Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics upon completing the interprovincial Red Seal examination. Red Seal certification allows individuals to work in any province where trade certification is required.

Trade certification for Transport Refrigeration Technicians is available but voluntary in New Brunswick, Alberta and British Columbia.

Getting Your Trade Certification

A written and practical examination is required to achieve trade certification. To qualify to write the certification exam, individuals must complete a 3-5 year apprenticeship program or have a combination of over five years of work experience in the trade and high school, college or industry courses in refrigeration and air conditioning repair.

2. Physical Requirements

Transport Refrigeration Technicians use their body strength to push, pull, lift and carry tools, equipment and parts. They also use their flexibility to crouch, bend, kneel, twist and sometimes lay down on creepers to work on equipment over their heads and under a trailer. Other physical requirements include:

• Hearing: They listen to various sounds and recognize the difference between them, particularly when diagnosing and troubleshooting equipment problems. They often use their sense to pinpoint issues.
• Vision: They need to see the detail of objects up close and from a distance (more than one foot away) when servicing equipment. They are also required to detect colours, shades and brightness.
• Agility: They need to steady themselves and maintain a strong posture when performing actions that involve intense pushing/pulling.
• Dexterity: They need manual dexterity to manipulate hand and power tools.

Compensation for Transport Refrigeration Technicians varies based on several factors, including the location, the type of organization, level of experience, and trade certification. Benefits are different across companies 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.

Salary range coming soon.