What They Do
The Refrigeration and Mechanical Systems Technician (RM TECH) provides Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Refrigeration, Aircraft Arresting Systems and Radar (mechanical) systems engineering support to operational units at home and abroad. During peacetime, RM TECHs maintain their skills while employed at home units or on humanitarian and United Nations operational assignments. The RM TECH occupation is one of seven Construction Engineering occupations involved in the supply of providing all construction, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering services in support of Canadian Forces operations worldwide.
- Install, operate, maintain and repair fixed and mobile refrigeration systems and associated control equipment
- Install, operate, maintain and repair heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and associated control equipment
- Install, operate, maintain and repair Aircraft Arresting Systems
- Install, operate, maintain, repair and overhaul mechanical systems associated with Aircraft Radar Systems
- Produce associated designs and specifications
- Produce associated mechanical drawings
- Conduct reconnaissance related to the above
- Assist other Construction Engineering tradespersons
- Work in confined spaces
Qualification Requirements
RM TECHs must have a comprehensive knowledge of math and an in-depth knowledge of physics. They must possess good reasoning ability, and be resourceful and innovative in order to solve unusual mechanical problems.
Good interpersonal skills, the ability to work as part of a team, good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are also essential. RM TECHs should enjoy working outdoors and be able to maintain a high level of physical fitness. You must meet Canadian Forces medical standards, and successfully complete a selection process that includes interviews and a wide range of examinations.
Initial Employment
On completion of basic occupational training, RM TECHs can expect to be posted to one of the following units:
- Airfield Engineering Flight (Air Force Environment)
- Construction Troop (Army Environment)
- Naval Construction Troop (Navy Environment)
- Base/Wing Construction Engineering Section
These units are located across Canada at such locations as Winnipeg, Manitoba; Gagetown, New Brunswick; Halifax and Greenwood, Nova Scotia; Petawawa and Trenton, Ontario; Valcartier and Bagotville, Quebec; Cold Lake and Edmonton, Alberta; Comox and Esquimalt, British Columbia.
Specialty Training
Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and motivation will undertake advanced occupational training through formal courses and on-the-job training as they progress in their career. Specialty training may also be provided. A sample of the specialty courses available is listed below. RM TECHs who have the required qualifications and attain the rank of Sergeant are eligible to enter the Construction Engineering Superintendent (MOC 649) occupation, with possible progression to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer.
Specialty Training Courses
- HVAC controls (Heating ventilation and air conditioning)
- Aircraft Arresting Systems
- Instructional Techniques
- MAG/TAG Team Leaders Course (Mobile arrestor gear / tactical arrestor gear)
- Fixed AAs Technician Course
- Coastal Radar Mechanical Systems Course (fixed arrestor gear)
- ASR Radar Mechanical Systems Course (air surveillance radar)
Working Environment
RM TECHs often work day or night while exposed to the elements and under varying environmental and rudimentary conditions involving long hours of standing, bending and twisting. They are frequently required to carry heavy materials and equipment weighing up to 45 pounds. Working conditions often include risk of bodily injury, and exposure to noise, vibration, dust and noxious or toxic fumes. The level of mental stress can be high when occupational duties must be performed under operational conditions in which resources and time are limited.
Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and Refrigeration and Mechanical Systems Technicians’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.
Basic Military Qualification
The first stage of training for everyone is the 13-week Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the CF physical fitness standard, as a result, the training is physically demanding. BMQ covers the following topics:
- Policies and regulations of the Canadian Forces;
- CF drill, dress and deportment (the “three D’s”);
- Basic safety;
- First aid;
- Personal survival in nuclear, biological and chemical conditions;
- Handling and firing personal weapons;
- Cross-country navigation; and
- Personal survival in field conditions
Basic Military Occupational Training
On completion of the BMQ, Refrigeration and Mechanical Systems Technicians attend MOC training at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (CFSME) in Gagetown, New Brunswick. Training takes approximately 41 weeks and includes:
- Environmental skills such as defensive tactics and firearms
- Care and use of common and special purpose tools and test equipment
- Application of occupational codes and regulations
- Interpretation of drawings and schematics
- Fixed and portable refrigeration systems
- Aircraft radar systems
- Physics, mechanical, electrical and electronic principles
- Aircraft hangar doors
- Brazing and welding techniques
