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Parts Technician (Red Seal)

Parts Technician 

(Red Seal)

partsperson parts technician
Manufacturing Construction Mining Aerospace Transportation & Transit Forestry Mining
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to follow proper health and safety requirements 
  • How to communicate effectively 
  • How to identify parts 
  • How to merchandise parts 
  • How to use equipment and procedures to handle materials  

A Parts Technician enjoys using their strong systematic and analytical skills to oversee the many intricate procedures involved in ordering, warehousing and maintaining inventory control.  

As a Parts Technician, you’re an organized person well-suited to overseeing the complex systems that ensure businesses properly order, track and store the various parts and supplies they need. 

You’re a team player who works with retail service staff, sales staff and service technicians, who rely on your expertise to ensure they can properly manage the supply of parts and materials. 

3.00
1.00
Training Hours
1770
False

For more information regarding the other levels in this progressive trade, please refer to the following program pages:

Program Updates

  • June 2023: Program Update (Harmonization Implementation)

  • November 2022: A new Program Outline and Program Profile will be implemented on August 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 026 for details.

  • OPSN Archives

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

In effect starting August 1, 2023

Program Profile

Occupational Description

A "Parts Technician" is involved in ordering, warehousing, maintaining inventory control and sales of parts. They are responsible for identifying parts and equipment, searching for parts, shipping and receiving parts, providing customer service and advice, and maintaining records. 

A Parts Technician works in various industries such as automotive service, commercial transport, heavy duty equipment, small engine repair, aeronautics, agricultural equipment, marine equipment, the mining sector, and the forestry sector. The work environment for Parts Technicians is generally indoors in a warehouse and/or at a service counter. Some parts people may perform deliveries of parts to their customers. Parts Technicians generally work in teams that include retail service staff, sales staff, and service technicians.

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

Interprovincial Exam Information

Updates:

  • October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2020 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2020 RSOS can be found here.

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Communication 
  • Coordination 
  • Parts identification and cataloguing 
  • Health and safety procedures 
  • Materials handling techniques and equipment 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Parts Technician 1

Parts 

Technician 1

partsperson parts technician
Manufacturing Automotive Construction Oil and Gas Maritime Forestry Aerospace AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to describe warehouse operations and requirements  
  • How to communicate effectively  
  • How to follow proper health and safety requirements 
  • How to receive, handle and fill orders for materials 
  • How to use equipment and procedures to handle materials  

A Parts Technician 1 is a highly organized and systematic individual who enjoys using a hands-on approach to oversee complex inventory operations and procedures.

As a Parts Technician 1, you’ll be in an environment where you’re responsible for overseeing complex systems and procedures.  

You'll apply a careful process to materials handling, using a range of procedures and equipment to receive, sort, store and ship goods. You’ll do all this—and more—while working closely with other team members to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the warehouse. 

3.00
1.00
Training Hours
1680
False

For more information regarding the other levels in this progressive trade, please refer to the following program pages:

Program Updates

CofQ Exam Information

Program Information and Resources

In effect starting August 1, 2023

Program Profile

Occupational Description

A "Parts Technician 1" is involved in ordering, warehousing, maintaining inventory control and sales of parts. They are responsible for identifying parts and equipment, searching for parts, shipping and receiving parts, providing customer service and advice, and maintaining records. 

A Parts Technician works in various industries such as automotive service, commercial transport, heavy duty equipment, small engine repair, aeronautics, agricultural equipment, marine equipment, the mining sector, and the forestry sector. The work environment for Parts Technicians is generally indoors in a warehouse and/or at a service counter. Some parts people may perform deliveries of parts to their customers. Parts Technicians generally work in teams that include retail service staff, sales staff, and service technicians.

View Program Profile

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

  • Communication 
  • Coordination 
  • Warehouse operations 
  • Health and safety procedures 
  • Materials handling techniques and equipment 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Instrumentation and Control Technician

Instrumentation &

Control Technician

Instrumentation Control Tech
Construction Forestry Oil and Gas Maritime Mining
Red Seal
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to consult manufacturer manuals, circuit diagrams and blueprints 
  • How to test and maintain instruments used for measuring and controlling flow, level, pressure, temperature, chemical composition and other variables  
  • How to calibrate components and instruments according to manufacturer specifications  
  • How to perform scheduled preventive maintenance work and complete test and maintenance reports  
  • How to install control and measurement instruments on existing and new plant equipment and processes 

Instrumentation and Control Technicians understand what all the dials, gauges and measuring devices are on any large piece of machinery, to ensure all runs smoothly.  

As an Instrumentation and Control Technician, you’ll use your logical approach to repair, maintain, calibrate, adjust and install the dials, sensors and other instrumentation that measure and control industrial/commercial machinery.  

You’ll work anywhere that uses complicated machinery—from pulp and paper plants to power plants, mines, manufacturing companies and health services.  

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
False

Program Updates

  • None

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Information:

Information:

Information:

Updates:

  • December 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2020 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 NOA and 2020 RSOS can be found here.

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Critical thinking and troubleshooting 
  • Analytical instrumentation 
  • Measuring and indicating devices 
  • Installation and maintenance of pneumatic, hydraulic, and electronic systems 
  • Communications, networking and signal transmission systems 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)

Industrial Mechanic 

(Millwright)

Millwright
Manufacturing Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Aerospace
Red Seal
AnalyticalMechanicalResourcefulSystematic
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams and schematic drawings 
  • How to inspect and examine machinery and equipment for irregularities and malfunctions 
  • How to install, align, dismantle and move stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment such as pumps, fans, tanks, conveyors, furnaces and generators 
  • How to maintain power transmission, vacuum, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and programmable logic controls 
  • How to clean, lubricate and perform other routine maintenance work on machinery  

Millwrights are systematic fixers whose expertise covers a wide range of tasks. In fact, their work borrows from many other trades—electricians, plumbers, machinists and mechanics—all rolled into one. 

As a Millwright, you’ll install, repair, and maintain a huge range of machinery.  

This will require a mechanical aptitude, as well as a knack for working with machinery and troubleshooting. You’ll be highly adaptable, learning the skills to work on specialized machines.  

Whether working on a broken conveyor belt or repairing a skill lift, you’ll enjoy the diversity of your job.  

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6360
True

Program Updates

Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Industrial Mechanics, or Millwrights, install, repair, overhaul and maintain machinery and heavy mechanical equipment, such as conveyor systems, in diverse settings including repair shops, plants, construction sites, mines, logging operations, ski hills and most production and manufacturing facilities. Millwrights also perform routine maintenance activities, such as cleaning and lubricating equipment, adjusting valves and seals, and investigating breakdowns.

View Profile

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Information:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Equipment installation and maintenance 
  • Cutting, fitting and fabricating 
  • Electricity and electronics theory 
  • Use of specialized tools and equipment 
  • Knowledge of lubricants, seals, bearings, power transmissions, compressors, and pumps  
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Heavy Duty Equipment Technician

Heavy Duty 

Equipment Technician

Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Mechanic
Construction Maritime Oil and Gas Mining Forestry Transportation & Transit Aerospace
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to adjust equipment and attach components 
  • How to test and inspect heavy equipment for faults and malfunctions 
  • How to repair and replace defective parts, components and systems 
  • How to clean, lubricate and maintain heavy equipment and attachments 

Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians are behind-the-scenes experts. They are incredibly versatile and resourceful, as they work with a wide range of equipment, making sure everything runs safely. 

As a Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, you’ll spend each day working on a range of tasks that test your analytical and mechanical skills.  

You’ll use your systematic approach to repair and maintain equipment used in a wide range of industries, from transportation to forestry, manufacturing, farming, mining and construction. This includes graders, loaders, shovels, tractors, forklifts, and more.  

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6330
True

Program Updates

Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 1, 2024

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Repair and maintenance  
  • Troubleshooting and monitoring  
  • Coordination 
  • Machine servicing  
  • Knowledge of machine systems 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Motorcycle Technician

Motorcycle 

Technician

Motorcycle Mechanic with bike
Automotive
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to inspect and test engines and other mechanical components 
  • How to repair and replace engines, drive trains, suspension and electrical systems 
  • How to adjust and test repaired systems 
  • How to perform preventative maintenance 
  • How to customize and rebuild 

Motorcycle Technicians are analytical and hands-on fixers who love working on motorcycles and other small vehicles, keeping them running smoothly and safely. 

As a Motorcycle Technician, you’ll work on motorcycles and other small vehicles such as scooters and all-terrain vehicles.  

Every day, you’ll inspect, diagnose, repair and maintain engines, transmissions and other systems. Your work will take place mostly on a busy shop floor with other Technicians, as you use your expert knowledge to manage a broad range of tasks.  

20.00
4.00
Training Hours
5800
False

Program Updates

 

The Motorcycle Technician Program Has Changed

  • Level 1 - Harmonized*

  • Level 2 - Harmonized*

  • Level 3 - Harmonized*

  • Level 4 - Current**

*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2022

**Current = Program stream for apprentices who've completed level 1 training before April 2022

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Motorcycle Technicians work primarily on 2- and 3-wheeled motorcycles and other units such as motor scooters. They inspect, clean, test, assemble, diagnose, maintain and repair engines, transmissions, drive systems, steering assemblies, braking systems, chassis and suspension, electrical systems, vehicle management systems, fuel systems, and exhaust systems. They may specialize in repairing, rebuilding, customizing or servicing these systems or assemblies.

View Profile

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • February 2022: OPSN 2022 004 Removal of the Level 4 Standard Level Exam (SLE) from the Harmonized program. 

Information:

Updates:

  • August 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2020 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)).  The Comparative Analysis details changes between the 2012 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2020 RSOS.

Information:

Program Information

Information for the Current (pre-harmonized) program (Motorcycle and Power Equipment Technician).

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Bearing design, construction and service 
  • Wheels, tires and suspension installation and maintenance 
  • Brake, electronic and exhaust systems 
  • Gasket and seal construction and service 
  • Starting, charging, engine, transmission and hydraulic systems 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler 

Fitter

sprinkler fitter
Construction Forestry Oil and Gas
Red Seal
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret drawings, specifications and fire codes 
  • How to select, measure, cut, ream and thread pipe 
  • How to join pipes and piping sections using soldering and welding equipment 
  • How to install valves, alarms, controls and associated equipment 
  • How to test systems for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment 

Sprinkler Fitters have a real impact on the safety of their communities. They are the tradespeople who make sure all buildings have the proper sprinkler systems in place. 

As a Sprinkler Fitter, you’ll be comfortable taking on a role of great responsibility—designing, assembling and installing sprinkler systems.

You’ll apply stringent safety regulations to your work, ensuring each system you install and repair is in top working order. Many systems can be quite complicated, and you’ll be the one who makes sure each one can save buildings and even lives, if needed.

24.00
3.00
Training Hours
6480
False

Program Updates:

Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Sprinkler Fitters layout, install, repair, modify, inspect, test and maintain fire protection systems in a variety of buildings and settings. They work on fire protection systems such as wet, dry, water mist, pre-action, foam, deluge, standpipe, clean agent, carbon dioxide, hybrid, antifreeze, and wet and dry chemical fire suppression systems. Their duties include reading and interpreting engineered drawings, installing hangers and clamps to support the piping system, preparing the pipe, joining pipe using a variety of methods, and installing associated equipment.

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • WHMIS and WorkSafe BC compliance 
  • Cutting, brazing, and soldering equipment use 
  • Project planning according to industry codes, regulations and standards 
  • Sprinkler components installation 
  • Water supply and sprinkler systems installation 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Security Systems Technician

Security Systems 

Technician

Construction Oil and Gas AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to use safe work practices  
  • How to use hand and power tools 
  • How to use test instruments, fasteners, sealants and surface fillers 
  • How to apply codes and regulations 
  • How to install security systems 

Security Systems Technicians take care of the systems that take care of us. They are experts who ensure every system works as intended, with no compromise on safety and security. 

As a Security Systems Technician, you’ll draw on your persistent style as you plan, troubleshoot and coordinate the installation, repair and maintenance of electronic security alarm systems.  

You'll be comfortable working independently, as you reference each task back to various building codes and regulations, and you’ll anticipate the elements that go into each system as you design it. 

Training Hours
3600
False

The Security Services Act refers to Security Systems Technicians as “Security Alarm Installers.” Most security systems technicians in B.C. require a security licence. For more information about the security industry in B.C., and to explore licensing requirements, please visit Security Program Division’s website.

Program Updates

Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) Exam Breakdown

Program Information and Resources

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Coordination and troubleshooting 
  • Safe work practices 
  • Electrical theory 
  • Security system design and installation 
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Saw Filer Endorsement: Benchperson

Saw Filer 

Endorsement:

Benchperson

Forestry Maritime AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to measure tools, apply formulas and calculate strain 
  • How to maintain cooling and hydraulic systems  
  • How to level and tension band saws 
  • How to set up and maintain band saw benches 
  • How to align and maintain band mills 

Benchpersons are responsible for setting up and maintaining the various types of band saws that cut and shape wood. They are comfortable working with their hands, and systematic. 

As a Benchperson, you’ll be a highly analytical expert who uses a hands-on approach to maintain the required cutting standard for band saws.  

In this unique role, you’ll draw on your organized and mechanical nature to carefully inspect band saws to ensure they are level, straight and properly tensioned. You’ll maintain and align machine centres to ensure they operate properly.  

4.00
1.00
Training Hours
1680
False

Program Updates

 

Endorsement Exam Information

Program Information and Resources

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

  • Safe work practices 
  • Math 
  • Saw basics 
  • Band saw benches, tensioning and levelling 
  • Quality control  
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

Saw Filer

Saw Filer

Forestry Maritime AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to measure tools, apply formulas and calculate strain 
  • How to use saw filing tools, align teeth, use shapers, and identify problems  
  • How to use band, circular, gang and chain saws 
  • How to use grinding wheels and knives 
  • How to weld saws, inspect and repair chains 

Saw Filers are analytical tradespeople who work on the complex machinery that shapes our lumber industry. They’re masters in quality control, approaching every task with safety in mind. 

As a Saw Filer, you’ll be in your element while you carefully and methodically work through the various processes to sharpen, fix and maintain saws.  

You’re very systematic, using a hands-on approach that follows strict safety guidelines and steps. You’re also resourceful, able to apply saw filing techniques in a range of situations, knowing that your mechanical approach will ensure success.

10.00
2.00
Training Hours
4200
False

Program Updates

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Information:

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.

  • Safe work practices 
  • Math 
  • Saw filing equipment and tools 
  • Saw basics 
  • Quality control  
Certification challenge only trade
1

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

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