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Apprentice Custom Car Shop Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

Laser Operator

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$25 - CA$27/hr

Since 1991, ICE Western Sales has been at the forefront of manufacturing highly complex Custom HVAC ... Indentured 1st or 2nd year apprenticeship preferred * Minimum Grade 12 education * Shop or HVAC ...

Apprentice Custom Car Shop information

What are some common challenges faced by an apprentice in a custom car shop, and how can they overcome them?

As an Apprentice in a Custom Car Shop, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced work environment, learning to use specialized tools, and mastering techniques unique to custom automotive work. It can also be demanding to keep up with the high standards for craftsmanship and precision required by experienced technicians. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to communicate openly with mentors, ask questions, and seek hands-on practice whenever possible. Building strong relationships with your team and showing a willingness to learn will help you progress and eventually take on more complex projects.

What is the difference between Apprentice Custom Car Shop vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectApprentice Custom Car ShopAuto Body Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, apprenticeshipsHigh school diploma, certifications like I-CAR
Work EnvironmentCustom shops, garages, hands-on workAuto repair shops, collision centers
Industry UsageEntry-level, learning trade skillsSkilled repair, collision work

While both roles involve working on vehicles, an Apprentice Custom Car Shop is typically an entry-level position focused on learning custom modifications and repairs through hands-on training. An Auto Body Technician is a more skilled role specializing in collision repair and bodywork, often requiring certifications. The apprentice role is ideal for those starting in the industry, whereas the technician role demands more experience and technical knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice in a custom car shop?

To thrive as an Apprentice in a Custom Car Shop, you need a basic understanding of automotive mechanics, hand tools, and vehicle systems, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with power tools, welding equipment, diagnostic software, and safety certifications is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, teamwork, and effective communication help an apprentice excel in the workshop environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality custom work, maintaining safety, and supporting efficient shop operations.

What does an apprentice custom car shop worker do?

An Apprentice Custom Car Shop worker assists experienced technicians in modifying, restoring, and customizing vehicles according to customer specifications. Their tasks may include preparing surfaces for painting, installing custom parts, learning welding and fabrication techniques, and helping to maintain the shop. Apprentices gain hands-on experience while learning about automotive tools, safety procedures, and the creative aspects of custom car building. Over time, they develop the skills needed to advance in the industry and take on more complex projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Custom Car Shop jobs in Calgary, AB? The most popular types of Custom Car Shop jobs in Calgary, AB are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Custom Car Shop jobs in Calgary, AB look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Custom Car Shop jobs in Calgary, AB are:
What cities near Calgary, AB are hiring for Apprentice Custom Car Shop jobs? Cities near Calgary, AB with the most Apprentice Custom Car Shop job openings:

Car Mechanic (Freight Car Repairer)

Canadian National Railway Company

Delacour, AB • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 361 rated logistics


Job description

Car Mechanic (Freight Car Repairer)

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  


Job Summary

The Car Mechanic Apprentice is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, building and repairing railway freight cars and equipment in accordance with Federal and CN's regulations. The incumbent is considered a Car Mechanic Apprentice until they have graduated to Journey Car Mechanic.


Major Responsibilities

  • Inspect cars and components in accordance with railroad associations, Federal Railroad Administration regulations, and company operating standards.
  • Perform all scheduled, on-request and preventive maintenance and repair on rail cars, under frames, on structures, safety appliances, draft systems and any associated tests.
  • Repair and install railway car parts such as compressors, air valves, bearings, couplings, air cylinders and piping.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, cutting torches and measuring instruments.
  • Operate transport vehicles including cranes, trucks, track mobile and shop equipment.
  • Prepare inspection, maintenance and work reports, and record details on prescribed forms in accordance with established procedures.

 

Working Conditions

  • Available to work night shifts, weekends, holiday, and overtime when required.
  • Partially performed outdoors in various weather and environmental conditions.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, performing overhead work, lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. (22 kg) and occasionally up to 85 lbs. (39 kg)
  • Frequent climbing or balancing, grasping, and good hand-eye coordination.
  • May be required to work away from assigned terminal.

 

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • A valid driver's license.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress.
  • Demonstrates good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, and client satisfaction.
  • Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments.
  • Ability to determine the condition of objects and parts for wear and defects.
  • Basic computer skills. 

 

Assets

  • Previous welding experience gained through formal training or work experience
  • Vocational/technical training and/or knowledge of Railroad Operating Rules
  • Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others
  • Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills
  • Ability to determine the condition of objects/parts for wear and/or defects
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety and client satisfaction

What We Offer

  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

This position is a unionized position, as such pay and benefits are governed by the applicable Collective Agreement.


Paid Training:

The incumbent receives paid on-the-job training, both theoretical and practical instructions, over a period of 3 weeks at 40 hours per week. Depending on the incumbent's level of experience, a 4-year on-the-job CN specific apprenticeship program may be required, and the incumbent will attend a series of courses at their work location.

The training includes rail car components, rail car inspection, single car tests, special commodities Level 2, freight car repairs, jacking procedures, railway welding, aerial lifts, yard operating rules, and other items relevant to the position. A successful completion of this training is essential for future performance of duties. 


Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision). 
  • Criminal background check
  • Offer Letter


Paid Training Structure:

  • 3 weeks in CN campus
  • 2+ weeks in shop (on-the-job training)
  • 2 weeks in CN campus

What Canadian National Railway employees say

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Benefits

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