Scope

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, rental and service companies, construction contractors, forestry companies, mining companies and government departments that service and repair their own equipment. Technicians can work in the following industries: construction, forestry, mining, marine, oil and gas, material handling, landscaping and land clearing. Many heavy duty equipment technicians have experience on a wide variety of equipment types and manufacturers.

Although it is recognized that heavy duty equipment technicians work with different prime movers such as electrical, the focus of this analysis is based on the internal combustion engine as the prime mover.

Heavy duty equipment technicians work in the full range of environmental conditions: from comfortable shops to remote sites where inclement weather can affect the technician’s performance of his/her duties. Good physical condition and agility are important because the work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching. Due to the size and complexity of the equipment, safety is of prime importance. Technicians must be conscious of the impact on people, equipment, work area and environment when performing their work. There is some risk of injury when working with heavy equipment.

Though not described in this analysis as knowledge or abilities, some important attributes of the heavy duty equipment technician are: mechanical and mathematical aptitude, an ability to communicate effectively, to work with little or no supervision, to work as a team player and to plan and work sequentially. This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps in the work of other tradespersons, such as automotive service technicians, agricultural equipment technicians, truck and transport mechanics and truck trailer repairers.

Experienced heavy duty equipment technicians may advance to shop supervisor or service manager positions. With additional training they can transfer their skills and knowledge to positions in sales, purchasing, planning or preventative maintenance or related occupations such as truck and transport mechanic, agricultural equipment technician, truck trailer repairer, aircraft maintenance engineer, industrial mechanic (millwright) or automotive service technician.

Observations

Some significant observations and trends emerged from the national occupational analysis of the heavy duty equipment technicians’ occupation. These observations and trends are briefly outlined in this section.

The computer is increasingly being used for diagnostics, function calibration, programming, service and parts information. The use of computerized equipment has raised the level of troubleshooting ability required by the technician. This in turn requires higher levels of education and continuous training for the technician. Satellite monitoring and diagnosing of machinery has been introduced and will become more widespread in the future. The use of Global Positioning System (GPS) and wireless technology has been introduced to machine operation and repair. The use of remote control machinery is increasing in the mining and construction sectors.

More emphasis is being placed on the safe handling, disposal, storage and recycling of toxic or environmentally hazardous materials.

Increasing use of multi-function/attachment equipment requires the technicians to have a broader ability to operate and repair.

Regular predictive and preventative maintenance is being emphasized to reduce downtime and costs related to major failures. However, some heavy equipment remains in service to the point of breakdown before having repairs initiated.

In an effort to maintain high safety standards, instruction in Workplace Hazardous Material Information Systems (WHMIS) and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) are becoming mandatory for individuals working in the trade. First aid training is also becoming mandatory in some jurisdictions.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties are aware of circumstances or conditions that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and work environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is recognized that the duties of a heavy duty equipment technician are inherently dangerous and often performed in dangerous environments. A safety-conscious attitude and safe work practices will contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. As well, it is essential to identify workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

As safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions, personal safety practices are not recorded in this document. However, the technical safety aspects relating to each task and sub-task are included throughout this analysis.

Job Titles