May take extra training to specialize in a particular area of repair or to obtain special knowledge of cars from a particular manufacturer to repair and service them properly. Automotive service technicians and truck and transport mechanics are employed by motor vehicle dealers, garages and service stations, automotive specialty shops, public transit authorities and trucking firms. Mechanical repairers are employed by motor vehicle manufacturing companies. These rates are among the lowest for technical, paraprofessional and skilled occupations, and for occupations in trades, transport and equipment operation. Employment in this occupation is moderately sensitive to overall economic conditions and moderately seasonal.
Most recent entrants have a community college diploma.
To gain trade certification, automotive service technicians and other motor vehicle mechanics and technicians must complete a four-year apprenticeship program. Automotive service technicians trade certification is compulsory in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. It is available, but voluntary, in most other provinces. Truck and transport mechanic trade certification is compulsory in Nova Scotia and available, but voluntary, in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Below average growth.