Becoming a Light Vehicle Technician

The automotive industry is a thriving sector in the Australian economy.
To keep up with the demand for skilled technicians, many world-renowned prestige car brands are offering apprenticeships to people who want to work as light vehicle technicians.

What Does A Light Vehicle Technician Do?

Technicians are experiencing an exciting period in the automotive industry because vehicles are now equipped with computer systems as complex as their engines. Automotive apprenticeships offer a range of challenging jobs that not only involve the maintenance, service, and repair of vehicles but also provide hands-on opportunities that keep up with rapidly evolving technology.

Some duties a light vehicle mechanical technician apprentice is expected to perform are:

  • Repairs and maintenance on diesel, petrol, electric, and hybrid vehicles

  • Diagnose, repair, and replace fuel injection components

  • Change filters, check fluid levels, clean spark plugs, and ensure that all fluid levels are correct throughout the car's system

  • Repair suspension components such as springs, shock absorbers, steering mechanisms, and tyre rotation

  • Perform electrical diagnostics on engine management systems

  • Troubleshoot problems with sensors, wiring harnesses, and circuit boards within the vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit)

For clarification, a light vehicle is considered a motorcycle, car, or truck used for transporting people or goods. The authorised mass cannot exceed 4.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and seats up to 12 adults maximum.

How Much Do Light Vehicle Mechanics Earn?

Wage is always company-specific, but Indeed states, the average salary for a qualified automotive technician in Australia is $67,432 per year.

Plus, there are several opportunities for apprentice light vehicle mechanics. A Certificate III apprenticeship qualification can be a gateway to careers in advanced vehicle repair as master technicians, management with the industry, or running and owning your own automotive business.

Light Vehicle Mechanic Qualifications

  • You do not require any formal entry requirements for a light vehicle mechanical technology apprenticeship however an interest in cars, basic English and Mathematics, and good communication skills will be helpful.

  • You will undertake a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, which is a nationally recognised qualification as a Light Vehicle Mechanical Technician who maintains, services, and repairs the mechanical and electrical components of Australia’s fleet of vehicles. You earn as you learn, getting paid from the first day of your placement.

  • You must be an Australian Citizen or a Permanent Resident of Australia.

Light Vehicle Automotive Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are a great way to gain hands-on experience in the automotive industry while earning at the same time. You’ll be working under the tutelage of qualified and experienced technicians, learning everything there is to know about light vehicle mechanics.

Don’t let lack of experience stand in your way. Apprenticeships allow students to develop their skills by working with experienced professionals who can guide them through their training process, giving them the best chance of succeeding in this challenging industry.

If you are excited about becoming a light vehicle mechanic, contact WPC Group. We’re excited to connect you with your future.