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September 13, 2024
Australia's automotive industry has an increasing demand for skilled heavy vehicle mechanics, particularly diesel motor mechanics who play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles. These professionals are essential to keeping the country's transport infrastructure running smoothly and efficiently. If you're interested in becoming a diesel mechanic, here's what the job entails and how you can enter this rewarding profession.
What Does a Diesel Motor Mechanic Do?
A diesel motor mechanic maintains, tests, and repairs diesel engines and the mechanical parts of heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses. They handle everything from transmissions and suspensions to brakes, ensuring that these vehicles remain operational and safe. Other responsibilities include replacing defective parts, reassembling mechanical components, and conducting inspections to issue roadworthiness certificates. Diesel mechanics often use welding tools and advanced processing equipment during repairs.
Working Conditions for Diesel Mechanics
Working as a heavy vehicle mechanic typically involves a 38-hour workweek, Monday to Friday. However, those working on a Fly-In/Fly-Out (FIFO) basis may work longer hours or shifts. Diesel mechanics work in environments that can be dirty and noisy, often requiring them to travel for jobs that involve agricultural or plant machinery in rural areas.
Safety is a major concern in this field. Mechanics typically wear uniforms and may be required to use special safety gear, particularly when dealing with chemicals and specialised machinery.
Tools and Technologies Used
A diesel motor mechanic uses a variety of tools, including both hand tools and power tools, to repair and diagnose engine issues. Advanced, computerised diagnostic equipment helps in troubleshooting complex engine problems, while welding equipment such as oxy, electric, MIG, and TIG is often used in repairs.
Becoming a Diesel Motor Mechanic
The most common path to becoming a heavy vehicle mechanic is through an apprenticeship in automotive technician (heavy vehicle road transport). This apprenticeship usually takes between 42 and 48 months to complete and can be started as a school-based program.
Apprenticeships and Traineeships
As an apprentice, you'll enter into a formal training contract with an employer. This allows you to work and gain practical skills on the job while also receiving structured training from a registered training provider. Apprenticeships are available to school-leavers, those re-entering the workforce, or adults looking to switch careers. Even if you're still in school, you can access an apprenticeship through your school’s VET (Vocational Education and Training) program.
The apprenticeship relevant to becoming a diesel mechanic is listed under AP02310 – Automotive Technician (Heavy Vehicle Road Transport).
Registration and Licensing
In Western Australia, diesel motor mechanics need a Motor Vehicle Repairer’s Certificate issued by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety. You must also obtain a National Police Certificate from the Australian Federal Police to qualify for the Repairer’s Certificate.
A Rewarding Career Path
Becoming a diesel motor mechanic or heavy vehicle mechanic opens up numerous opportunities, especially in Australia's growing automotive and transport industries. With a strong demand for skilled workers in this field, apprentices and trainees can look forward to a fulfilling and secure career, keeping the country's heavy vehicles in top condition.