Job sheet: Outdoor Power Equipment Technician
Job title
Outdoor Power Equipment Technician
Job description
The outdoor power equipment sector is a changing industry with new and emerging technologies and new products being developed all the time. There are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills, and experience different things in this industry. If you are looking for a job that can provide you with technical challenges and on-going satisfaction then this career pathway is for you.
A typical day for and outdoor power equipment technician could include certain tasks such as preparing a machine or equipment for deliver to a customer to diagnosing and repairing mechanical and electrical faults in outdoor powered equipment. Equipment includes lawnmowers, chainsaws, week eaters, brush cutters and trimmers, power cutters and any other outdoor powered equipment which operates a small engine. You will need to feel comfortable with the latest technologies and attention to detail is crucial.
Qualifications required
You must be 16 years or older and be employed in the industry to start an outdoor power equipment apprenticeship with MITO.
It is recommended that you achieve good grades in maths, English and science at secondary school.
You should talk to your School Careers or Gateway Advisor about MITO's StartUp® programme. This programme includes theory and practical components. It enables you to experience the reality of working in a workshop and gain NCEA credits while you are still at school.
Training costs
MITO's annual training fee covers all training and assessment materials, regular visits from your MITO Industry Training Advisor, an entitlement of 80 hours of off-job training each year as well as on-going reports on your progress and maintenance of your academic record.
The annual training fee is $858.75 (inclusive of GST).
Upon completion of your apprenticeship you will be rewarded with a National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Electrical and Mechanical) (Level 3 and 4) specialising in Outdoor Power Equipment.
Location
There is outdoor power equipment workshops located throughout New Zealand. Expert skills are in high demand.
Career path
A career in this industry gives you plenty of options.
Click here for an MITO roadmap.
MITO offers career pathways that begin at secondary school with our StartUp® programme. After starting work and completing your apprenticeship you can progress to supervisory or management roles through MITO's business management qualifications.
Salary range
As an apprentice, you will generally start your training on an hourly rate. Many employers use pay rises as an incentive to develop your skills and gain practical experience. Once you are qualified, you can anticipate increasing your income further. Expert outdoor power equipment technicians are always in demand and can expect to be paid well.
Other careers this profession could lead to
The industry offers many exciting career pathways, including
supervisory and management roles, both in New Zealand and
overseas.
Some of the options include:
- self-employed or business owner
- workshop manager
- outdoor power equipment or parts sales representative
- tutor, developing courses and teaching.
How to increase your chances of successfully entering the industry
You can experience the industry first hand while still at school by enrolling in MITO's StartUp® programme. You have the opportunity to show the employer your potential and gain credits towards NCEA at the same time.
You might also be able to find work in a workshop in the school holidays. You will then be able to impress future employers with your experience.
Places to source information about this job
Visit www.mito.org.nz and www.careers.govt.nz. You can also talk to your (School) Careers Advisor.
Other relevant points
Skilled Outdoor Power Equipment Technicians are in high demand in New Zealand and are recognised internationally for their skill, work ethic and dedication.
MITO
The NZ Motor Industry Training Organisation (Inc) (MITO) is all about developing and facilitating training in New Zealand's automotive and industrial textile fabrication industries. We set training standards and promote careers in these industries.
We work with apprentices, their employers and training providers
to make sure people in our industries get the best possible
opportunities to learn and accelerate their c
