Parts Technician
Source, manage inventory, and provide technical guidance on automotive and industrial replacement parts.
About Parts Technician
Parts technicians source, manage inventory, and provide technical guidance on automotive, heavy equipment, and industrial replacement parts. They use electronic cataloguing systems, manage warehouse operations, and support technical counter sales.
Work Environment
Parts technicians work in parts departments of dealerships, independent parts stores, and warehouse distribution centres. The work involves computer-based cataloguing, counter sales, and warehouse activities including receiving and organizing inventory.
Physical Demands
- Lifting and carrying parts and materials
- Standing at counter for extended periods
- Warehouse work including shelving
- Computer use for cataloguing
- Occasional delivery driving
Designated Provinces & Territories
Red Seal Exam Structure
The Parts Technician Red Seal exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering 4 major work activity areas.
Total Questions
Multiple choice
5–15%
Knowledge & Recall
60–70%
Procedural Application
20–30%
Critical Thinking
Skills for Success
The essential skills required to succeed in this trade, as defined by the Red Seal program.
Reading
Read technical manuals, code books, specifications, and safety documentation related to parts technology.
Document Use
Interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and technical documents used in parts technology.
Writing
Complete work orders, reports, inspection records, and other documentation for parts technology.
Oral Communication
Communicate with clients, colleagues, supervisors, and other trades to coordinate parts technology work.
Numeracy
Perform measurements, calculations, and estimates required for parts technology tasks.
Thinking
Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and plan parts technology work.
Working with Others
Collaborate with team members, apprentices, and other trades on parts technology projects.
Digital Technology
Use digital tools, diagnostic software, and computer-based systems relevant to parts technology.
Continuous Learning
Stay current with evolving codes, technologies, and best practices in parts technology.
Career Advancement
Parts technicians can advance to parts manager, purchasing agent, or inventory control specialist. Some move into manufacturer sales representative roles or open independent parts supply businesses.
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