Automotive apprentice jobs and entry-level roles in Canada
Looking for automotive apprentice jobs, or a first job in the industry with no experience? This page explains how apprenticeship works for mechanics and technicians in Canada, which entry-level roles exist in dealerships and shops, and where to find open positions on Canada Motor Jobs.
General information only. Apprenticeship rules, requirements and programs differ by province and change over time. Confirm the current steps with the official bodies listed on this page.
How to become an automotive technician
Ontario: the 310T and 310S apprenticeships
In Ontario, automotive trades are learned through an apprenticeship. You work for an employer who sponsors you, learn on the job under a certified technician, and attend in-school training. The trade is registered with Skilled Trades Ontario, and certification ends with a Certificate of Qualification.
The 310T code is the Truck and Coach Technician trade. The 310S code is the Automotive Service Technician trade. If you search for 310T apprentice jobs, you are looking for a position with an employer willing to sponsor an apprentice in the truck and coach trade. Check the current trade details, entry requirements and training steps with Skilled Trades Ontario.
Quebec: the DEP in automotive mechanics
In Quebec, the usual route is the Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) in automotive mechanics, given by vocational training centres. Some people also learn on the job through the workplace apprenticeship program, with a journeyperson who supervises them.
Program names, admission conditions and available places depend on the training centre and the year. Check them with Inforoute FPT or the centre you plan to attend.
Other provinces and the Red Seal
Each province and territory runs its own apprenticeship system. The Red Seal program is a national standard that lets certified tradespeople in many trades work across provinces. Contact your provincial apprenticeship authority for the trades and steps that apply to you.
Entry-level and no-experience automotive roles
Many dealerships and shops hire people with little or no experience and train them. These roles are a common way into the industry, and some lead toward an apprenticeship.
- Apprentice mechanic or technician. Work alongside a certified technician while you learn the trade. Employers often list these as mechanic apprentice jobs or apprentice automotive technician jobs.
- Detailing and car washer. Clean and prepare vehicles for customers and for the lot. Detailing is also called esthetics in dealerships.
- PDI (pre-delivery inspection) helper. Prepare new vehicles before they are handed to the customer. Duties depend on the dealership. Searching for PDI on the job board returns the positions that mention it.
- Shuttle driver and porter. Drive customers or vehicles between the dealership, the shop and other locations. Shuttle roles are usually listed as driver or porter jobs.
Find apprentice and entry-level jobs
These links open current openings for each role. Pages are only listed when they have enough openings to be useful.
Tips for applying with no experience
- Say clearly that you are looking for an apprenticeship or a first role, and which trade you want to learn.
- List any related experience: school shop classes, personal projects, tools you can use, or a driver's licence.
- Mention that you can start soon, can work the shifts offered, and can travel to the shop.
- Create a profile on Canada Motor Jobs so employers can find you and so you can be notified of new openings.
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
What is an automotive apprentice?
An apprentice is a person who learns a trade on the job under a certified technician while also following in-school training. The employer sponsors the apprenticeship, and the apprentice earns wages while learning.
What does 310T mean?
In Ontario, 310T is the trade code for the Truck and Coach Technician. The automotive service technician trade uses the code 310S. Confirm the current trade details with Skilled Trades Ontario.
Do I need experience to start as an apprentice mechanic?
Not always. Many employers accept candidates with little or no experience for apprentice positions and train them. Requirements vary by employer and province, so read each job posting carefully.
Can I work in a garage or dealership with no experience?
Yes. Entry-level roles such as detailing, car washing, lot work, pre-delivery inspection help and shuttle driving are often open to beginners, and some lead toward a technician apprenticeship.
What is the path in Quebec?
The usual path is the Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) in automotive mechanics. Learning on the job through the workplace apprenticeship program is another option. Check the details with Inforoute FPT or a training centre.
How do I find apprentice jobs on this site?
Use the links on this page for apprentice technician and entry-level roles, or search the job board by keyword and city. Create a profile to be notified when a matching position is posted.