How Do I Get a Heavy Duty Mechanic Engineering Job in Australia?
TIME BUSINESS NEWS — The mining industry continues to be one of the major contributors to Australia’s overall income. With mineral- and resource-rich lands, the country is the world’s largest exporter of coal and the third largest of aluminium. Australia also boasts large quantities of diamond, gold, silver, iron ore, and oil shale.
What’s great is that the mining industry is in need of workers with different backgrounds, from clerks to engineers. But among the many employment opportunities, one of the most in-demand and fulfilling careers in mining is being a heavy duty or HD mechanic.
For those interested in applying as a heavy duty mechanic experience in the mining industry, here are a few pointers to get you started:
Showcase Your Skills in the Interview and Your CV
HD mechanic jobs require a variety of skills. These include diagnosing, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining heavy-duty mining equipment and vehicles. You should also be able to perform necessary tests correctly, in order to ensure efficiency. Being in the pink of health is also ideal, since HD mechanic jobs are quite rigorous and physically demanding.
“Soft” skills are also important in becoming an HD mechanic. You should be able to listen to your team members and be able to manage conflict should it occur. If you’re planning to get promoted to a senior position, then leadership skills are a must. Attention to detail is also critical because even the smallest mistake can result in huge repercussions, including severe injury.
Make sure to highlight these skills and qualifications in your CV. You should also be prepared to showcase these in the interview. Be confident, but not overly so. Most importantly, be honest.
Explore Automotive Qualifications or Certifications
When you’re a heavy duty mechanic, you can expect to service a variety of heavy machinery. You need to be able to perform diagnostics, preventive and routine maintenance, as well as repairs. In fact, you may even be asked to perform complete rebuilds. You’re also expected to know how to use computerised testing equipment and software for diagnosis. Knowledge and experience in using both hand and power tools are a plus.
In short, you may want to also consider acquiring automotive qualifications since it has a lot of parallels with mechanic jobs in mining.
Complete an Apprenticeship and Some Formal Training
Heavy duty mechanics require completed apprenticeships and formal training. The track is very similar to those taken by those who want to get diesel mechanic jobs. However, your apprenticeship for a heavy duty mechanic job should be focused on heavy machinery and vehicles.
You should also consider enrolling in a pre-apprenticeship course such as Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology (AUR20516). For formal training, it’s a good idea to get the Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31116). This particular course focuses on heavy vehicles, which you will be expected to handle as part of your job.
Being a heavy duty mechanic takes a lot of work. However, all that preparation will be worth it once you get the job. The mining industry is not just challenging and exciting, it’s also a place for a gainful career.
Good luck on your job search!
