Training

OPG provides extensive training to Mechanical Technician Trainees. You will be required to complete general and trade-specific training before becoming qualified as a Mechanical Technician. The content and length of the training may vary depending on the business unit, and it consists of mechanical and science fundamentals and safety awareness to ensure your understanding of basic facility systems and station operations.

Trade-specific training consists of in-class and on-the-job training focusing on advanced skills in various tasks. On-the-job training includes a series of small tasks to complete, which will test your hands-on knowledge and skills. Trade-specific training can take four to six years.

Mechanical Technicians are needed in the Nuclear, Hydroelectric and Thermal business units of OPG, however, the equipment used in each unit will vary. You will receive unit-specific training when you join. The educational requirements are the same for all three units, and skills needed are mostly interchangeable between locations and business units.

Position Overview

Mechanical Technicians work 8-, 10- or 12-hour shifts and must be prepared to be on duty any hour of the day.

The majority of your work will entail inspection and preventative/predictive maintenance that will ensure any mechanical problems can be prevented or addressed at an early stage. You will also troubleshoot and carry out repairs in order to maintain a safe working atmosphere.

Working environments vary depending on the type of station where you are located – some are more physically intense than others, but, no matter what type of equipment you are working on or the surrounding environment, safety is always the first priority. Adherence to OPG's guidelines and practices at all times, and accurately maintaining and filing detailed work reports in order to ensure a safe, uninterrupted workflow are all critical elements of a Mechanical Technician's job.

Safety Is A Priority

At OPG, safety is our first priority. In order to ensure your safety, protective equipment and clothing are provided and are required to be worn at all times. Depending on the business unit, some of the equipment and clothing can be heavy or feel restrictive (i.e., plastic suits and respirators), but they are designed to minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous materials or radiation.

Education Requirements

In order to be considered for the position, you must have:

• a Grade 12 Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent); and
• completed a minimum two-year recognized community college program in Mechanical Engineering Technician/Technology, Industrial Mechanic Millwright or similar.

Note: Experience in a related field is preferred.

Realistic Job Preview

Starting a new job can present unique challenges. OPG would like to help make this transition smooth for you. That is why we feel it is important to provide you with a detailed description of what you can expect to experience as a Mechanical Technician.

Our Realistic Job Preview gives you detailed information on all aspects of the position, including the positive and potentially negative aspects of the job. The goal of the Realistic Job Preview is to achieve a better fit between you and the position and provide you with realistic expectations. The document is quite long and detailed, however, it is a good investment of your time to read it, as it will better prepare you.

Note: This Realistic Job Preview focuses on the Nuclear work environment, specifically. Please check back for Hydroelectic and Fossil details, which are coming soon.

Download our Realistic Job Preview PDF

Future Opportunities

You can really take advantage of training while at OPG. Throughout your career, you will be constantly supported in enhancing your knowledge and skill set. Training, supervisory and management roles are just some of the advancement options open to you, but what you pursue is up to you. Opportunities to pursue your long-term goals may present themselves anywhere across the province.

Here are just some of the common advancement roles for a Mechanical Technician once the trainee component is fulfilled:

• Team Leader
• Assistant Supervisor
• Training Coordinator
• Trades Management Supervisor (Hydroelectric and Thermal)

Note: These are common progression paths within OPG, but there are many other opportunities available.