Common Occupational Skills (safety, tools and equipment, communication, documentation, computer applications)
Safety
Parts work happens around moving vehicles, forklifts, batteries, solvents, aerosols and heavy castings, so a hazard check comes before every task. Know the WHMIS/GHS pictograms and the 16-section SDS: Section 4 is first aid, Section 8 is exposure controls and PPE, Sections 7 and 10 cover handling and stability. Flammables go in approved cabinets; used oil, filters, coolant and batteries follow hazardous-waste streams. Shipping dangerous goods (aerosols, lithium batteries, refrigerants) requires TDG training and correct documentation.
Tools and equipment
Be able to choose and read measuring tools. A tape or rule suits bulk goods; a caliper reads outside, inside and depth to 0.01 mm (0.001 in); a micrometer gives precision to 0.001 mm (0.0001 in). Also know thread pitch gauges, feeler gauges, torque wrenches (return to zero after use), pressure gauges and pullers. Never use an adjustable wrench on a hydraulic line fitting.
Communication and documentation
Radio and counter talk is short, specific and confirmed by repeat-back. Every transaction leaves a trail: work order, picking ticket, packing slip, bill of lading, invoice, credit note. Know what each proves - a packing slip lists contents, a bill of lading is the carrier's contract and receipt, an invoice demands payment.
Computer applications
Expect questions on inventory/ERP screens: part master, bin location, on-hand versus available (on-hand minus committed), PO receipt, price file, and lookup by VIN, number or description.
Worked example: a metric micrometer shows 7 mm on the barrel and 32 on the thimble (0.01 mm graduations) → 7.32 mm.
Traps: picking a caliper where the spec demands micrometer accuracy; treating "available" as "on hand"; signing documents without reading them.