As an Automobile Mechanic with the Department of National Defence, you will maintain and repair light and heavy vehicles that support military operations and defence activities across Canada. You will perform routine maintenance, diagnose mechanical problems, and execute repairs on a diverse fleet of vehicles including trucks, cars, and specialized military transport. Your work ensures that all vehicles meet strict safety and operational standards required by the Canadian Armed Forces.
Your daily responsibilities include inspecting vehicles for defects, replacing worn parts, performing welding and fabrication work, and testing repaired vehicles to confirm proper operation. You will work with hand tools, power tools, and specialized diagnostic equipment to troubleshoot complex mechanical issues. You may also prepare maintenance reports and maintain detailed service records to track vehicle history and compliance.
You will work in a military maintenance facility or motor pool environment, typically indoors but with exposure to various weather conditions. The role offers opportunities to work with modern vehicle technology, contribute directly to military readiness, and develop expertise in automotive systems. This position provides job security, benefits, and the satisfaction of supporting Canada's defence mission.
Key Responsibilities
Perform mechanical services tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Automobile Mechanic, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12). Preference is given to candidates with formal automotive training, such as a certificate or diploma from a recognized automotive technician program or trade school.
Professional certifications that strengthen your application include Transport Canada's Heavy Commercial Vehicle Inspection certification or equivalent provincial automotive technician certifications. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driver's abstract.
Once hired, the Department of National Defence provides on-the-job training specific to military vehicles and equipment, specialized systems training, and opportunities to pursue Red Seal interprovincial certifications. You may also access professional development programs through the Canadian Forces School of Transportation and Logistics or equivalent training facilities. Continuous learning opportunities exist to advance your technical knowledge and progress toward supervisory roles.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the Public Service. The most common route is through a public competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca), where DND posts Automobile Mechanic positions as they become available at various military bases and defence establishments across Canada.
DND also maintains talent pools for trades positions, where qualified candidates are assessed and ranked for future openings without competing each time a position becomes available. This streamlined approach allows faster hiring when vacancies occur.
If you are a student or recent graduate, you may qualify for the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program (PSRP), which provide pathways to permanent employment after successful performance in student roles.
Experienced tradespersons may also enter through lateral moves if they already work for another federal department or agency. Priority consideration may be given to Canadian Armed Forces members transitioning to civilian roles, veterans, or individuals with prior military service.
Part-Time Options
Automobile Mechanic positions with DND are typically full-time permanent roles, as vehicle maintenance operations require consistent staffing to support operational readiness. However, limited part-time or term positions may occasionally be available depending on facility needs and budget allocation.
Flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours or compressed work weeks may be negotiated with your supervisor, subject to operational requirements and maintenance schedules. Remote work is not applicable to this role, as the position requires your physical presence in the maintenance facility to perform hands-on repairs and inspections.
If you require part-time work, we recommend inquiring about opportunities during the application process or contacting the specific DND facility where you are applying, as availability varies by location and operational demands.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
