Combine your interest and skills in production, engineering, trucks, large agricultural machinery and other heavy vehicles with this pre-trade qualification and specialise in automotive heavy engineering. You will cover a wide range of heavy equipment topics through both theory and practical learning. To ensure you gain a thorough understanding of automotive engineering the initial part of this programme is studied alongside our Certificate in Motor Industry (Level 3) (Cars/Motorcycles) programme. Once this part is completed your specialist study begins, and you will have the opportunity to decide which section of the industry you would prefer to focus on.

On this programme you will complete units towards the National Certificate, enabling you to gain an apprenticeship more easily and giving you a head start into employment. You will also use industrystandard equipment in our specialist workshop and complete work placement to ensure you have plenty of experience when applying for apprenticeships and employment.

What will this programme cover?

• Safe work practices and procedures
• Measuring, testing, diagnosing and repairing electrical, electronic, wiring and lighting systems
• Minimising emission of ozone depleting gases
• Testing, diagnosing and servicing cooling systems
• Knowledge of internal combustion engines
• Knowledge of drive line components
• Inspecting, testing, diagnosing and repairing diesel fuel injection systems and intake and exhaust systems
• Knowledge of automotive heavy equipment braking systems and hydraulic systems
• Applying lubricants, sealants and service bearings
• Understanding technical data and language in the area of automotive heavy engineering.

Related Careers

• Employment or apprenticeship within:
• Road transport service and repair
• Agricultural equipment service and repair
• Plant and equipment service and repair
• Materials handling service and repair
• Sales, service and repair of marine plant and equipment

What do you need to apply?

To enter this programme it is desirable that you have at least 3 years secondary education and at least 24 credits at NCEA Level One (or equivalent) made up of 12 credits in English and 12 credits in Maths.

If you don't have the stated entry criteria, talk to us about whether you have the equivalent skills and knowledge or to determine if this is the right programme for you.

You may also be asked to attend an interview and complete a pre-entry test to indicate your level of knowledge and technical skills.

Programme Recognition

This programme is accredited by NZQA and moderated by MITO.

Further Study Options

National Certificates in Automotive Heavy Engineering
(Level 3 or 4)