Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120)

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology is a nationally recognised apprenticeship pathway for people who want to develop practical skills in servicing, diagnosing and repairing heavy commercial vehicles.

This qualification may suit people who enjoy mechanics, working with large engines, practical hands-on work and problem-solving. New to the trade? Read how to become a mechanic.

Qualification

AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Nationally recognised. Also known as a heavy diesel mechanic or heavy vehicle mechanic apprenticeship. Typically completed over four years of paid work combined with structured off-the-job training.

What You’ll Learn

During your Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology apprenticeship, you can develop skills including:

• Diagnosing and repairing steering systems
• Inspecting and servicing hydraulic systems
• Inspecting and servicing diesel fuel injection systems
• Testing and repairing basic electrical circuits
• Carrying out servicing operations
• Using and maintaining tools and equipment in an automotive environment
• Carrying out diagnostic procedures

The Heavy Vehicle Apprentice

If you have a passion for mechanics, enjoy working with powerful engines, enjoy practical and manual work, and have skills for problem-solving, a career in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology is perfect for you.

Heavy commercial vehicle technicians service and repair vehicles such as trucks and buses used across transport, construction and other industries. Through your apprenticeship, you gain practical workplace experience while completing structured training towards your qualification.

Why Complete A Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Apprenticeship?

Some key reasons to pursue a career with a Heavy machinery mechanic apprenticeship include:

• In-Demand Skills: The transport industry plays a crucial role in the Australian economy, so this field is always in demand for skilled technicians.
• Job Security: As transport is essential, heavy commercial vehicle technicians can have a permanent job, even during economic fluctuations.
• Competitive Salaries: Skilled technicians earn competitive salaries, making it a financially good alternative for those seeking this as a career choice.
• Hands-On Work: If you prefer hands-on work to desk jobs and enjoy fixing tangible issues, this career is for you as it offers a dynamic environment where apprentices are always on the move.
• Continuous Learning: Technology in heavy vehicles constantly evolves, offering ongoing learning and professional growth opportunities.

Heavy Commercial Vehicle vs Light Vehicle: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology and Light Vehicle Technology lies in the types of vehicles and skills involved.

Heavy Vehicle Technology focuses on larger, heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and buses, including heavy-duty mechanical, hydraulic, steering, braking and diesel systems.

Light Vehicle Technology focuses on cars and other light vehicles, with training centred on servicing, diagnostics and repair of light vehicle systems and components.

The pathway that suits you will depend on the type of vehicles and mechanical work you are most interested in.

Entry Requirements

• No formal prerequisites. Mechanical aptitude and reasonable physical fitness
• Employment as an apprentice. 1300apprentice can employ you and place you with a host employer
• A Unique Student Identifier (USI) before training starts
• A driver licence is useful, and a heavy vehicle licence can be gained during or after your apprenticeship
• Open to school leavers, mature age career changers and school-based apprentices

Where Heavy Diesel Apprentices Work

Heavy commercial vehicle apprentices work across transport and logistics fleets, bus and coach operators, truck dealerships, mining and civil contractors, and council depots. Because heavy vehicles are kept in service for far longer than cars, the trade tends to be steady work, and qualified heavy diesel mechanics are consistently in demand across regional and metropolitan Australia. If you would rather work on cars and light commercials, the Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is the equivalent pathway, and earthmoving and plant work sits under the Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology.

Why Choose Us?

If you successfully secure a heavy vehicle apprenticeship through 1300apprentice, we employ you directly and coordinate your placement with a host employer.

We manage your wages, superannuation, applicable allowances and TAFE or registered training organisation fees. We also provide ongoing mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship.

1300apprentice has more than 40 years of vocational education and training experience and supports apprentices and trainees across a wide range of industries and occupations.

Contact us to learn more about our automotive apprenticeship pathways or register your interest in future opportunities.

FAQ

Can a heavy vehicle mechanic work on cars?

A heavy vehicle mechanic can work on cars in practice, but the qualification is not the same. AUR31120 trains you on trucks, buses and heavy diesel systems, including air braking and hydraulics, rather than on light vehicle engine management. Many workshops will accept a heavy vehicle qualified mechanic for general light vehicle work, though some employers and licensing arrangements require the light vehicle certificate specifically.

How long is a heavy diesel mechanic apprenticeship?

A heavy diesel mechanic apprenticeship generally takes three to four years. You are employed and paid for the whole period, working with your host employer and completing off-the-job training towards AUR31120. Progress is measured against competencies, so the exact length depends on how quickly you work through them.

What is the difference between a heavy diesel mechanic and a diesel fitter?

The difference between a heavy diesel mechanic and a diesel fitter is mostly where the work happens and what it covers. A heavy diesel mechanic services and repairs trucks, buses and heavy road vehicles. A diesel fitter more often works on fixed or mobile plant in mining, agriculture and civil construction. The underlying engine and hydraulic skills overlap heavily, and people move between the two.

Do you need a truck licence to be a heavy vehicle mechanic?

You do not need a truck licence to start as a heavy vehicle mechanic apprentice. A standard driver licence is useful from the beginning, and many apprentices gain a heavy vehicle licence during or after their apprenticeship because it makes road testing and moving vehicles around the yard far easier. Some employers will support you to obtain one.

Start Your Heavy Vehicle Apprenticeship

If you are ready to start a heavy commercial vehicle apprenticeship, explore our current automotive opportunities or register your interest with 1300apprentice. If you successfully secure a role through us, we employ you directly, coordinate your host placement and support you throughout your apprenticeship.

Call 1300 277 736 or register your interest.