What Does a Powered Lift Truck Technician Do?

Powered Lift Truck Technicians diagnose problems with, troubleshoot, tune up, fix and repair lift truck engines and their component parts and systems.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

Acquiring practical knowledge about the many acts, regulations and standards, including safety, that apply to vehicle safety inspections, emissions tests, and the repair and replacement of defective parts of powered lift trucks
Interpreting and applying information from service bulletins, manuals and parts catalogues, microfiche and computerized information systems so that repair is performed according to manufacturer's specifications
Visually inspecting and assessing system types, looking for defects, testing and analyzing vehicle performance and function
Diagnosing, troubleshooting, servicing and repairing: batteries, starting & ignition systems, electric motors, engines and engine lubricating systems, electrical-electronically controlled systems, clutch systems, suspension systems, cooling systems, and various fuel delivery systems including diesel and natural gas
Selecting and correctly using the right tool(s) to perform engine tune ups; repairing manual transmissions and components, as well as automatic and hydrostatic transmission systems and drive shafts, drive axles and differential assemblies
Diagnosing, troubleshooting and repairing manual and power steering systems and components as well as mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic braking systems and their components
Maintaining, diagnosing, troubleshooting and repairing lifting systems and their components, as well as tires, wheels and frame and cab systems/components
Verifying all repairs for effectiveness
Conducting final inspections to ensure that work detailed on work order has been completed to meet customer need/company standards
Preparing cost estimates, parts requisitions and work plans
Communicating with customers or service managers about the scope of problems and cost of repairs
Reading manuals and consulting with manufacturers re: component or system specifications

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

Completion of Grade 12 with a secondary school diploma, with senior credits in Math, Science and English is recommended. Enrolment in OYAP, coop, or obtaining technical credits in the automotive or truck vehicle mechanic area would be a definite asset. You can obtain a Certificate of Apprenticeship after completing @ 6,280 hours (a combination of on-the-job and in-school training). Post secondary training in the field is offered at Kemptville College, affiliated with the U. of Guelph: http://www.kemptvillec.uoguelph.ca/bdc2/diesel_equipment_power.htm

What’s Your Future as a Powered Lift Truck Technician?

Powered Lift Truck Technicians may need to travel to various work sites to perform their duties, sometimes outdoors or in a shop environment, usually working a standard 40 hour work week, with the possibility of some shifts, evening or weekend work required. Career progression within the trade can include Supervisory/Management positions or self-employment.

Equipment Service/Dealerships
Lift Truck sales and rental companies
Material Handling companies
Self-employment

Wage Rate

Apprentices generally earn less than Journeypeople
As your skills and expertise increase, so does your wage
On average, fully qualified Powered Lift Truck Technician can earn in the range of $12.00-$22/hr and up according to the Peel Halton Dufferin 2000 Wage Book.

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Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Powered Lift Truck Technician for You?

Do you have a mechanical aptitude, good vision and enjoy learning about and fixing different systems and components?	Yes No
Do you enjoy communicating with co-workers and customers?	Yes No
Do you have the physical stamina to be on your feet for long hours and are you willing to work overtime if required?	Yes No
Are you able to bend, lift, kneel, stoop, and crouch?	Yes No
Do you like to diagnose and find problems, then implement solutions?	Yes No
Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?	Yes No
Do you take pride in persisting until the job is done safely and just right?	Yes No