Partsperson

For more information about this trade, contact the training co-ordinator.

What does a Partsperson do?

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

• order parts for sale and keep track of inventory
• receive orders of 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 trades people or the general public

What skills/abilities are required?

If you enjoy working with people, have an interest in fixing things and enjoy helping others solve practical problems related to repairs, you may want to consider becoming an apprentice Partsperson. A Partsperson is often called upon to handle small objects, so good manual dexterity is a factor. 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.

How long is the apprenticeship program?

The apprenticeship is three years consisting of three levels. Practical and technical training is a minimum of 1800 hours per level. About 80 per cent of the time is spent learning practical on-the-job skills under the supervision of a certified journeyperson and 20 per cent consists of learning the theoretical and technical aspects of the trade through a combination of on-line learning and in-school training. The in-school training for Level 3 is delivered by the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) in Saskatoon. To cover costs of attending technical training out-of-province, funding benefits such as employment insurance, mileage, expenses and living allowances are available.

What is taught during in-school/technical training?

During apprenticeship, you will be required to attend periods of in-school training. Subject areas of instruction include:

• Trade-related Mathematics, Science and Communications related to the trade
• Safety and Warehousing
• Stock Handling Procedures
• Catalogues and Pricing
• Part Identification
• Standard and Stock Materials
• Inventory Control
• Sales and Merchandising

Link to Curriculum Information

What is the supervision ratio?

As experience comprises the bulk of apprenticeship training, it is essential that each apprentice has on-site access to a skilled journeyperson and receives the attention and guidance necessary to perform the tasks of the trade safely and efficiently.

For every apprentice working in this trade, the employer is required to maintain a 1:1 ratio of apprentices to journeypersons on-site and must ensure that the apprentice is directly supervised by a certified journeyperson in the trade.

What are the entrance requirements?

High School Apprenticeship Program (HSAP): Begin your apprenticeship training in high school. A minimum age of 16 years in required.

General Admission: A Grade 12 or equivalent high school academic standing is required, including recommended courses in English, Math and Science. If you do not hold a high school diploma, you can also qualify as an Access Program Trainee (formerly Mature Student). Prior Learning Recognition and Assessment may be required.

Trades Qualification: If you are experienced in the trade, but do not hold a Certificate of Qualification, you may become a certified journeyperson based on years of proven industry experience and successful completion of the Red Seal Examination. A Trades Qualification Application and trade specific work experience form must be submitted. Trades professionals whose entrance readiness is less than that required, must take appropriate upgrading.

For additional details on entrance requirements and how to begin your apprenticeship or obtain certification, see section on "How to Start".

Do I get a certificate?

When you successfully complete all your required levels of practical experience and technical training, you write an interprovincial examination. You must score at least 70 per cent or better to qualify for a “Red Seal” endorsed interprovincial certificate confirming your status as a certified journeyperson.

Your “Red Seal” endorsed Certificate of Qualification as a journeyperson in this trade is recognized throughout Canada.

What salary can I expect as an apprentice?

Regulations under the Apprenticeship and Certification Act establish minimum wage rates for apprentices. Every employer who enters into an apprenticeship agreement with an apprentice must ensure that the apprentice is paid at least the minimum wage rate for that trade.

Apprentices who work for unionized employers are entitled to the wage rate in the collective agreement if it exceeds the pay rates specified in the trade regulation.

Employers may also provide other benefits such as group insurance for health, dental and vision care and training benefits.

Current wage details are available by downloading the training wage schedule.

What are the career prospects?

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

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