Co-op program details

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Program details

Credential: 2-Year Ontario College Diploma

Students in this two-year diploma program develop knowledge and technical skills through a combination of classroom theory and hands-on training to succeed as a Heavy Duty Equipment Technician.

Using mechanical aptitude and problem-solving techniques, students learn to inspect and test heavy duty equipment operation, systems and components and to dismantle and re-assemble components following manufacturer repair procedures and reusability guidelines while using safe working practices. As well, students learn to communicate information effectively and may delve deeper into related topics such as engine failure analysis and electrical diagnostics and repair.

Graduates may receive automatic exemption from Levels 1 and 2 of the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician apprenticeship and are well-prepared to pursue a career as a technician or another related role in the industry.

Student availability & wage data

Conestoga College facilitates recruitment on an ongoing basis - there are no hard deadlines. Typical time frames for work terms are listed below.

Postings are accepted beginning four months before the start of a term until all students have secured employment provided the minimum 12 consecutive weeks of full-time work is met.

Work/Study Sequence

Year Fall (Sept - Dec) Winter (Jan - Apr) Spring (May - Aug)
Year 1 Classes Classes Work Term: $17-26
Year 2 Classes Classes

Conestoga College collects data on hourly wages of co-operative education students and offers suggested ranges as a service to employers for the purpose of establishing fair and competitive compensation.

Our experience has been that employers increase wages as skills increase, particularly when employing students for more advanced work terms. The Co-operative Education Office can provide assistance to employers in establishing appropriate wage rates.

Work term capabilities

  • Inspect and test heavy duty equipment operation and components in compliance with manufacturer's recommendations
  • Assess and diagnose basic heavy duty equipment engine systems and components
  • Inspect and test basic heavy duty equipment electrical, electronic, fuel and emission systems and components
  • Assess and diagnose basic heavy duty equipment drive train systems and components
  • Inspect and test basic heavy duty equipment suspension, steering, wheel-end assemblies, and brake systems and components
  • Disassemble and assemble components to required specifications.
  • Test and inspect heavy duty equipment hydraulics and pneumatics systems and subsystems
  • Communicate information effectively, credibly, and accurately by producing supporting documentation to appropriate standards
  • Use information technology and computer skills to access data concerning repair procedures and manufacturers' updates
  • Prepare logs, records, and documentation to appropriate standards
  • Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships
  • Complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles
  • Perform welding and cutting using oxy-fuel

Sample job titles

  • Heavy Duty Equipment Technician - Apprentice
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Parts Counter Associate
  • Technical Salesperson
  • Component rebuilder
  • Service writer
  • Product support person
  • Preventative Maintenance Technician

Post a co-op job now

Setup an account or login to Conestoga's MyCareer to post a job.

Contact information

Do you need help developing a recruitment plan or job posting, accessing wage information, or connecting with a talented co-op student? Contact:

Melissa Deneault
Employer Relations Consultant
Mdeneault@conestogac.on.ca
519-748-5220 ext. 2817