Bicycle mechanic
Brake mechanic
Heavy vehicle motor mechanic
Light engine mechanic
Light vehicle motor mechanic
Mechanic Assistant

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

Motor Mechanic (General)

Automotive mechanics work on the mechanical parts of motor vehicles, including the engine, transmission and suspension systems. They fix, maintain, reassemble, restore and overhaul these components and also talk to the vehicles' owner about issues they may be having. Common tasks might include the testing and repairing of electrical lighting systems, the replacement of damaged parts in the engine, or the inspection of vehicles in order to render them safe for the road. Automotive mechanics work right across the state, in service stations, vehicle dealerships, for public authorities such as local governments or defence, transport firms, organisations with fleets of vehicles that need to be maintained and for themselves in their own businesses.

ANZSCO ID & description: 321211: Maintains, tests and repairs petrol engines and the mechanical parts of lightweight motor vehicles such as transmissions, suspension, steering and brakes. Registration or licensing may be required.

Alternative names: Automotive Light Mechanic, Automotive Mechanic, Service Technician,

Specialisations: Automatic Transmission Mechanic, Automotive Airconditioning Fitter, Automotive Airconditioning Mechanic, Brake Mechanic, Ground Support Equipment Fitter (Air Force), Vehicle Mechanic (Army)

Knowledge, skills and attributes

An automotive mechanic needs:

• the ability to work well with manual hand tools

• problem-solving skills

• good vision and hearing

• to hold a current drivers license

• technical aptitude

(Source: Your Career)

Duties and Tasks

• detect and diagnose faults in engines and parts

• dismantle and remove engines, systems and other components, and checking parts

• repair and replace worn and defective parts

• perform scheduled maintenance services, such as oil changes, lubrications and engine tune-ups

• reassemble engines and parts after being repaired

• rest and adjust mechanical parts after being repaired for proper performance

• diagnose and test parts with the assistance of computers

• inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates.

 Working conditions

Automotive mechanics work mainly in garages, workshops and other areas where vehicles are serviced, repaired or maintained. They work with oils, petrol, greases and other chemical products which can cause skin irritation. Mechanics should also be physically fit so they can lift and move heavy tools or machinery. Work areas can quickly become messy and dirty.

Tools and technologies

Automotive mechanics work mainly with tools and devices used to maintain and repair automotive engines and parts. Safety precautions must always be taken when working with certain machines and devices in the industry, such as when welding. Other tools used in the industry may include spanners, precision measuring devices and spray painting equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become an automotive mechanic, you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in automotive technician (light). The apprenticeship usually takes 42 to 48 months to complete, and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.

To work as an automotive mechanic in Australia, you will need to acquire a Motor Vehicle Repairer's Certificate, or work under the supervision of someone who holds a current certificate.

A National Police Certificate is required to gain a Motor Vehicle Repairer's Certificate.

Light vehicle motor mechanics service, repair and overhaul the mechanical parts of motor vehicles such as the engine, the transmission (clutch, gear box and differential), and the suspension systems (springs, steering, brakes, wheels and tyres).

ANZSCO ID: 321211

Specialisations: Light vehicle motor mechanics may specialise as Automotive Air Conditioning Fitters or Brake Mechanics. They may also specialise as breakdown service patrol officers who give emergency mechanical assistance to members of an automobile association.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• enjoy practical and manual activities
• able to work with hand tools
• good at technical activities
• problem-solving skills
• able to cope with the physical demands of the job
• normal eyesight and hearing
• drivers licence essential.
  

Duties and Tasks

Light vehicle motor mechanics may perform the following tasks:

• discuss problems with car drivers or vehicle operators to discover faults
• listen to engines, fit and operate special test equipment and test-drive vehicles
• repair or replace worn or faulty parts by removing assemblies such as engines, transmissions, differentials or steering gear; dismantling them and checking parts, referring to manuals as necessary
• reassemble, test, clean and adjust repaired or replaced parts or assemblies, using various instruments to make sure they are working properly and putting them back into the vehicle
• tune engines using special electronic equipment and make fine adjustments (to carburettors, for example) for smoother running
• carry out minor body repairs and minor trim repairs
• diagnose, repair and replace engine management and fuel injection components
• use oxy, electric, TIG and MIG welders
• test and repair electrical systems such as lighting, instrumentation, ignition and electronic fuel injection
• inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or list the work required before a certificate can be issued.

Working conditions

Light vehicle motor mechanics work mainly in workshops and wear protective clothing. They need to keep up with changes in motor industry technology.

Tools and technologies

Automotive mechanics work mainly with tools and devices used to maintain and repair automotive engines and parts. Safety precautions must always be taken when working with certain machines and devices in the industry, such as when welding. Other tools used in the industry may include spanners, precision measuring devices and spray painting equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become an automotive mechanic, you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in automotive technician (light). The apprenticeship usually takes 42 to 48 months to complete, and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.

To work as an automotive mechanic in Australia, you will need to acquire a Motor Vehicle Repairer's Certificate, or work under the supervision of someone who holds a current certificate.

A National Police Certificate is required to gain a Motor Vehicle Repairer's Certificate.

Employment Opportunities
  
Due to advances in automotive technology, most vehicles now contain electronic controls and computers. As a result, knowledge in this area has become essential for light vehicle motor mechanics and they are becoming more specialised in their areas of work.

Heavy vehicle motor mechanics repair, maintain and test heavy vehicles, other engines and related mechanical components. Heavy Vehicle Motor Mechanics specialise in repairing and maintaining heavy vehicles, which includes trucks, buses, agricultural or earthmoving machinery.

ANZSCO ID: 321212

Brake mechanics diagnose faults and repair, replace or overhaul and test the parts of disc, drum or power brake systems used on all types of motor vehicles.
  
ANZSCO ID: 321211

Alternative names: Brake Technician

Specialisations: Brake mechanics may specialise in light or heavy vehicles. Some brake mechanics specialise in compressed air brake systems used by trucks, buses and semi-trailers.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• enjoy practical and manual work
• mechanical aptitude
• able to work accurately.

Duties and Tasks

Brake mechanics may perform the following tasks:

• work out faults in brake systems by talking to the vehicle operator and driving the vehicle, noting its performance, or by reading data from the vehicle's computer control system
• diagnose and correct anti-lock braking faults
• examine brake units, including steel and flex hoses and handbrake cables, for wear, damage or possible failure, and repair or replace as required
• measure brake drums and disc rotors to determine if wear or finished size is excessive
• test brake units to make sure outputs are to the specified level (this includes electronics now widely used on late model vehicles and trailer/caravan brakes)
• repair or replace leaky brake cylinders
• attach new linings to brake shoes by bonding or riveting (this is a separate semi-skilled operation in some repair shops)
• machine discs and drum brakes where indicated
• fit wheel onto hub and tighten wheel fixings to specified torque
• ensure brake systems are filled with correct brake fluid and are functioning correctly
• bleed the hydraulic brake system.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a brake mechanic you usually have to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship in Automotive Braking System Technology or Automotive Underbody Technology. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.


Additional Information
In NSW, brake mechanics must be certified by NSW Fair Trading. To work as a brake mechanic in the ACT, you must have a motor vehicle repair licence or work under a licenced supervisor. Contact the Office of Regulatory Services (ACT) for further information.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Automotive Industry Retail, Service and Repair Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

It is useful for brake mechanics to hold a drivers licence.

Employment Opportunities

Brake mechanics work for brake repair specialists and motor vehicle repair firms in metropolitan areas and in larger country towns. Employment opportunities are affected by the level of motor vehicle use.

Bike mechanics use various tools and cleaning chemicals. You may need to wear protective clothing such as overalls and eye protection.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a bicycle mechanic without formal qualifications. You would probably get some informal training on the job. You can also become a bike mechanic through an apprenticeship or traineeship in Bicycle Mechanical Technology or Bicycle Workshop Operations. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require junior secondary school certificate or equivalent.

Cycling is increasing in popularity, and bicycles are becoming increasing complex and costly. As a result, more opportunities are becoming available, but employers often seek trained and qualified employees.

Employment may be on a full-time or part-time basis and may include seasonal work.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Automotive Industry Retail, Service and Repair Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

Employment Opportunities

Bicycle technicians may work in a variety of businesses, including retailers, wholesalers, suppliers, manufacturers, equipment hirers, race teams and tour companies. With the increasing popularity of cycling, and the increasing complexity and cost of bicycles, employers often seek trained and qualified employees. Employment may be on a full-time or part-time basis and may include seasonal work over summer.

Mechanics' Assistants assist Motor Mechanics to replace and repair worn and defective parts, re-assemble mechanical components, change oil and filters, and perform other routine mechanical tasks. Mechanic assistants provide support to lead mechanics working in automotive repair shops by directly helping with repair- and maintenance-related tasks. This role provides an excellent starting point for new mechanics to gain familiarity with repair and maintenance processes and best practices while working directly under the supervision of more experienced professionals.

As mechanic assistants gain knowledge and expertise, they can take on more complex tasks within the shop. They may begin with simple duties including oil and tyre changes before moving on to replacing parts like hoses and belts or directly aiding in vehicle inspections and the diagnosis of performance issues.

• Knowledge of vehicle repair.
• Excellent mechanical skills.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to use power and hand tools.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read service and repair manuals.
• Ability to complete assigned tasks in a timely fashion.  
• Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel, and squat to perform repairs and inspections.
• Must be able to work safely in a noisy area with many odours present.
• Must be able to lift 20K at a time.  

(Source: ZipRecruiter)

Duties and Tasks

Assists mechanics to:

• Detect and diagnose faults in engines and parts.
• Dismantle and remove engine assemblies, transmissions, steering mechanisms and other components, and check parts.
• Repair and replace worn and defective parts and reassemble mechanical components, and refer to service manuals as needed.
• Perform scheduled maintenance services such as oil changes, lubrications and engine tune-ups to achieve smoother running of vehicles and ensure compliance with pollution regulations.
• Reassemble engines and parts after being repaired.
• Test and adjust mechanical parts after being repaired for proper performance, diagnose and test parts with the assistance of computers.

Support Lead Mechanics

Many of the core duties of a mechanic assistant involve providing direct or indirect support to lead mechanics. They may work on projects under the lead mechanic’s supervision or may help out by ensuring that the lead mechanic has ready access to the tools and parts they need to finish repair and maintenance activities. As mechanic assistants gain familiarity with processes and practices, they may ask questions to clarify the lead mechanic’s activities or provide information related to their own tasks.

Perform Preventive Maintenance Tasks

In many cases, mechanic assistants conduct routine maintenance activities that don’t require a high level of expertise or specialization. A mechanic assistant may change a vehicle’s oil, rotate tires, flush and replace fluids, and change bulbs. Early in their career, the mechanic assistant may perform these tasks under the direct supervision of a lead or more experienced mechanic, but they tend to act with more autonomy as they demonstrate their knowledge.

(Source: Your Career)

Repair and Replace Automotive Parts

Mechanic assistants repair and replace parts in cars or trucks, including belts and tubes that have worn out or could soon fail. These replacements generally don’t require a high level of technical knowledge, but a mechanic assistant may also make more advanced repairs or replacements under the supervision of lead mechanics, such as swapping out engine components or transmissions.

Provide Diagnostic Support

Experienced mechanic assistants provide diagnostic support for lead and senior mechanics. As they begin their career, the mechanic assistant learns about methods for diagnosing vehicle performance issues and eventually gains a thorough knowledge of common diagnostic tests and indicators. Additionally, the mechanic assistant may work with diagnostic tools and provide reports and data to the lead mechanic to assist with repairs.

Maintain Customer and Vehicle Records

Mechanic assistants provide support throughout the shop by maintaining customer and vehicle records, working with printed copies of service records and computerized data. Mechanic assistants frequently create new customer records, gather information related to the vehicle, check registration and insurance information, and ensure that customer and vehicle information remains up to date and reflects recent repair and maintenance activities.

Support Shop Cleanliness and Safety

Finally, mechanic assistants maintain workspaces and promote shop safety by cleaning work areas and removing hazardous materials such as oil, gasoline, or other fluids. The mechanic assistant follows established procedures for safe disposal of motor oil, tyres, and other vehicle fluids. They may also conduct periodic checks of equipment and work areas to ensure that they are free of clutter and dangerous materials like broken glass.

Working conditions

They usually work in garages that are indoors. Usually starting work at 7am and finishing at 4pm 5 days a week.

Automotive mechanic assistants work mainly in garages, workshops and other areas where vehicles are serviced, repaired or maintained. They work with oils, petrol, greases and other chemical products which can cause skin irritation. Mechanics should also be physically fit so they can lift and move heavy tools or machinery. Work areas can quickly become messy and dirty. This is still a male dominated industry with 96.9%male and 2.5%female.

Tools and technologies

Automotive mechanics work mainly with tools and devices used to maintain and repair automotive engines and parts. Safety precautions must always be taken when working with certain machines and devices in the industry, such as when welding. Other tools used in the industry may include spanners, precision measuring devices and spray painting equipment.

You can work as a Mechanic's Assistant without formal qualifications. Some on the job training may be provided. A Vocational Education and Training (VET) course in an automotive or mechanical field might be helpful.

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Materials sourced from
CareersOnline [Bicycle Technician; ]
CareerHQ [Light Vehicle Mechanic; Bicycle Mechanic; ]
Open Universities [Bicycle Mechanic; ]
SHRM [Mechanics Helper; ]
JobHero [Mechanic Assistant; ]
Truity [Small Engine Mechanic; ]
Zippa [Small Engine Mechanic; ]
Climb the Ladder [Small Engine Mechanic; ]
Your Career [Motor Mechanic; Small Engine Mechanic; Motor Mechanic - General; Mechanics Assistant; ]

 

 

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