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Careers

Partsperson

Do you have an interest in fixing things and enjoy helping others solve practical problems related to repairs? Then you may want to consider becoming a Partsperson.

Who Am I?

A Partsperson manages and sells an inventory of parts for vehicles, appliances, machinery and equipment.

What do I do?

In today's mechanized world, equipment often wears out, breaks down or becomes damaged. Making available the parts needed to repair or replace these items is an important aspect of the service provided by retail stores, agencies and to-the-trade outlets such as repair shops and parts stores. Depending on the type and size of outlet you work in as a Partsperson, you can expect to do some or most of the following jobs.

  • Receive orders for parts and ensure orders are accurately filled;
  • Set up and use a parts storage system to receive ordered parts;
  • Price parts according to a price catalogue;
  • Provide assistance to those looking for parts;
  • Sell parts over the counter to tradespeople or the general public;
  • Order parts and keep track of inventory.

How do I start?

You can get a jump-start on your future career in the construction trades by checking out construction courses offered at colleges and high schools. These hands-on courses will help you build the basic skills you will use in the construction industry.

Although Senior 2 is the minimum academic requirement, it is strongly recommended that to enter your apprenticeship program and succeed, you should have Senior 4 or equivalent high school academic standing.

While you're still in high school, you can begin an apprenticeship program as a Senior Years Apprentice and earn both high school and apprenticeship credits at the same time. After high school graduation, many Senior Years apprentices continue in regular, full-time apprenticeship programs.

To be an apprentice in this trade, you must be at least 16.

Length of Program

3 levels including three in-school sessions.

How does apprenticeship training work?

You must have a qualified employer who is willing to train you as an apprentice. To register in the apprenticeship program, you and your employer complete an application form together and submit it to the Apprenticeship Branch. Once the application is approved, apprenticeship training begins under the supervision of a certified journeyperson.

The apprenticeship for a Partsperson is three levels. Each level consists of on-the-job practical experience and some in-school technical training. Work hours and school time must total at least 1800 hours. Applicants who have successfully completed related courses of study or work experience may be eligible for advanced standing in the apprenticeship program.

When you successfully complete all levels of training, and score at least 70 % on your final examination, you receive a Certificate of Qualification confirming your status as a certified journeyperson. Your certificate also has "Red Seal" endorsement that means your trade qualifications are generally recognized throughout most of Canada.

For more detailed information on apprenticeship training in this trade, check the Apprenticeship web site at : http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/aet/apprent/index.htm

How much do I make?

Wage Rate: $17.00 (Approximate, not including benefits)

Partspersons generally work a 40-hour workweek except when overtime is required to meet construction deadlines.

Where do I go from here?

Partspersons are employed in automotive, heavy equipment, truck and parts distribution industries and wherever mechanical service work takes place. Employment in this field is growing as electronic inventory systems are integrated into industry with a requirement for specialized technicians.

How do I advance?

The ability to think visually and to see how various parts might work together is also an asset. Since there are many types of equipment that need parts, you may be able to work in an area of special interest, such as motor vehicles or household appliances. Although you can expect to do similar tasks in any parts department, you have the option of working with the public in a retail store or with other trades people in a for-trades outlet, depending on your preference and job availability.