Diesel motor mechanic
Diesel motor mechanics maintain, test and repair diesel motors and the mechanical parts of trucks, buses and other heavy vehicles. These mechanical parts may include transmissions, suspensions and brakes. Diesel motor mechanics repair and replace worn and defective parts and reassemble mechanical components, as well as inspect vehicles and issue road worthiness certificates. They may need to work with a variety of welding and processing tools.
Working conditions
Heavy vehicle motor mechanics normally work 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday. If they work on a Fly-In/Fly-Out basis, they generally work longer hours or shift work. Their work environment tends to be dirty and noisy.
They may also be required to travel to the country if they work on plant or agricultural machinery. They usually wear a uniform and may need to wear special safety clothing. They need to be safety conscious when dealing with chemicals and specialised equipment.
Tools and technologies
Heavy vehicle motor mechanics are required to use a wide range of tools and technologies to diagnose and repair engines and their associated systems. Computerised diagnostic equipment may need to be used. A wide range of welding equipment, including oxy, electric, MIG and TIG may need to be used, as well as a variety of common and specialised hand and power tools.
Education and training
To become a diesel motor mechanic, you usually have to undertake an apprenticeship in automotive technician (heavy vehicle road transport). The apprenticeship usually takes between 42 and 48 months to complete and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.
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