Transport trailer technicians inspect, diagnose, maintain and repair transport trailers connected to or moved by a power unit. Trailers include flat decks, dry freight vans, refrigerated vans, tankers, converters, boosters, jeeps, pole trailers, steering dollies, dump trailers and any other commercial pull-type units. Transport trailer technicians inspect, service and repair parts and components of systems such as suspension and brake systems, mechanical and electrical components, flooring, hydraulic systems, axles, wheel assemblies and coupling units. Technicians may specialize in sheet metal work, frame repair or replacement, and heating and refrigeration unit repairs.
Transport trailer technicians are employed at trailer manufacturers, sales and repair facilities, as well as at construction or industrial sites and fleet repair shops. They may work in a shop or out of a mobile service vehicle.
To meet government standards and regulations, transport trailer technicians may have to attain specialty certifications in order to perform work-related tasks. A propane license, refrigeration certificate, tanker inspection certificate, specialized pressure vessel welding license, wheel and tire certification, wheel and rim torquing certification, and government inspector certificate are examples of additional certification that may be required by certain jurisdictions. Technicians must practice safe operating procedures and be conscious of the impact on people, equipment, work area and environment when performing their work. Due to the size and complexity of the equipment, safety is of prime importance. There is an inherent risk of injury when working with heavy equipment, power tools and welding equipment. There are also risks associated with working around loud noises, grease, oil, gasoline and various exhaust fumes. Hazardous cargo or residue contained within trailers can pose a risk to technicians.
The work requires considerable standing, climbing, crouching, kneeling and heavy lifting. Good vision, hearing and sense of smell, as well as the ability to think logically, allow transport trailer technicians to identify and isolate problems. Technicians must also be able to diagnose complex problems and interpret technical manuals and schematics. Building and fabrication skills are also an asset.
This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of truck and transport mechanics, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, welders, motor vehicle body repairers, partspersons and heavy duty equipment technicians.
With experience, transport trailer technicians act as mentors and trainers to apprentices in the trade. They may also advance to supervisory, service management and training positions.
-
Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic)
Lathers handle, erect and install materials that are components in the construction of all or part of a structure. They lay out and install framework for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls, floors and roofs. Lathers install various types of ceilings (e.g. suspended, spanned, direct contact), shielded walls (e.g. fire,... More >
-
Youth employment programs and services
The Career Focus program provides funding for employers to offer post-secondary graduates opportunities to obtain career-related work experience. The objective of this program is to help youth acquire advanced employment skills and facilitate their transition to a rapidly changing labour market. This program connects youth with employers who can provide... More >
-
What Social Workers Do
Social Workers are usually employed in hospitals, community health centers, mental health clinics, schools, advocacy organizations, government departments, social service agencies, child welfare settings, family service agencies, correctional facilities, social housing organizations, family courts, employee assistance programs and private counselling, school boards, and consultation agencies. More >
-
Carpenter
A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and... More >
-
Recreation Vehicle Service Technician
Recreation vehicle (RV) service technicians work on systems and components of recreation vehicles, including electrical components, plumbing, propane gas components, appliances, exterior and interior components, structural frames and towing systems. They diagnose, repair, replace, install, adjust, test, maintain and modify these components and systems. They may also perform maintenance and... More >
-
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >
-
Instrumentation and Control Technician
Instrumentation and control technicians work on measuring and controlling instrumentation. They also service plant process control, monitoring, safety and communications systems. They are knowledgeable in overall plant systems and interactions of processes. Some of the duties of instrumentation and control technicians are: 1. Consulting diagrams and technical documentation such as... More >
-
National Health Sciences Students' Association
The National Health Sciences Students' Association (NaHSSA) was established in 2005, and it is the first national interprofessional student association in the world. NaHSSA is a network of local university and college-based chapters that promote interprofessional education and practice within Canada. It enables students to advocate for and learn from... More >