Traffic Technician

Overview

Traffic Technicians in the military orchestrate and oversee the transport of Canadian Armed Forces personnel and equipment. This involves coordinating multiple modes of transportation locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally to support a range of military exercises and missions. Working collaboratively within supply chains, they ensure proper handling and documentation of movements.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain all transportation-related documentation for cargo, equipment, and personnel movements.
• Plan, manage, and execute loading and unloading operations of military and commercial transportation vehicles across road, rail, air, and maritime platforms.
• Handle dangerous cargo with appropriate procedures.
• Liaise and process customs documentation for international shipments.
• Operate military vehicles and equipment used for material handling.
• Manage transportation contracts, invoicing, and related financial recordkeeping.

Work Environment

Traffic Technicians may be stationed in warehouses, terminals, offices, field locations, or flying squadrons across Canada and worldwide. They must be adaptable to shift work and potentially challenging environments, including isolated areas and extreme climatic conditions.

Regular Force personnel undergo necessary training before assignment to bases, with the likelihood of relocations during their careers. Reserve Force members typically serve part-time with commitments during evenings and weekends, operating from their local units without mandatory relocations but with opportunities for deployments.

Entry Requirements and Training

• Minimum educational attainment is completion of Grade 10 (Secondary 4 in Quebec); foreign education credentials may be considered.
• Initial training includes Basic Military Qualification at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, a physically demanding program to meet Canadian Armed Forces fitness standards.
• Subsequently, candidates attend a 12-week specialized course at the Canadian Forces Logistics Training Centre, covering military vehicle operation, cargo movement by various transport modes, customs processes, passenger management, and financial documentation.

Advanced Training and Career Progression

• Upon mastering core skills, Traffic Technicians may qualify as Loadmasters on various Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft, including the CC130H/J Hercules, CC150 Airbus, CC177 Globemaster, and CH147F Chinook Helicopter.
• Advanced courses available include dangerous cargo handling, helicopter underslung operations, ship loading and stowage, tactical airlift support, loading specialization for CC177 aircraft, aerial delivery basics, and airline host check-in system training.

Part-Time Opportunities

This role is also available as a Reserve Force position, allowing individuals to serve part-time at Air Force Wings or Army bases while maintaining civilian education or employment. Reserve members receive pay during training, enjoy benefits, and may volunteer for full-time service or deployment without mandatory relocations.

Related Roles

• Vehicle Technician
• Logistics Officer
• Materiel Management Technician