Welcome
Congratulations! The fact that you have found this page means you are curious about careers in the heavy vehicle industry – so your journey has already begun.
Explore this page to learn more about our amazing and vital industry, and the diverse and rewarding opportunities that await you.
About the heavy vehicle industry
Australia’s automotive manufacturing industry is alive and well, with hundreds of innovative trailer, specialised vehicle, component, equipment and technology manufacturers and suppliers in addition to the product assembly of iconic global heavy vehicle brands such as Volvo, Mack, Kenworth and DAF.
Australia’s Heavy Vehicle Industry directly employs over 80,000 people and manufactures, services and repairs some of the world’s most efficient, safe, innovative and technologically advanced vehicles.
Meet some of our great people
We invited ambassadors from various sectors of the heavy vehicle industry to share the stories of their fascinating and diverse career paths.
There is a consistent theme that has come through from all of them:
If you have a “can-do” attitude, and you are willing to throw yourself in and give things a red-hot go, …this industry has endless opportunities that will set you up for life.
Like to know more about the industry?
HV101 is an engaging, short, online course that will answer heaps of your questions about the heavy vehicle industry. You’ll know all the lingo in no time.
A career in the heavy vehicle industry is about far more than just your singular skillset – it is how your contribution fits into the big picture. Your role is a vital cog in the machinery that allows the trucking industry to keep Australia moving.
Our training programs will help you achieve your full potential in your career, your workplace, and in the heavy vehicle industry.
At the completion of the dynamic, interactive online course, you’ll be able to follow non-technical discussions around heavy vehicle topics and understand what is being discussed, having learned a working vocabulary of common heavy vehicle terminology.
Career Pathways Directory
Whether you’re interested in hands-on trade skills, advanced technology, or supply chain logistics,
there’s a great career waiting for you.
Find the right qualification for your chosen career. Explore the courses available in your state.
Every trucking fleet has it's own distinct look, so whether you work with the original equipment manufacturer or in an aftermarket role,, your work creating the fleet identity will be seen far and wide.
Automotive Technicians maintain and repair vehicles using a combination of diagnostics and hands-on techniques
What isn't connected by wires these days? An increasingly vital trade as vehicles transition to electric power trains
Auto Electrician
Description: Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 321111 (Automotive Electrician)
Courses: AUR 30320
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Bendigo TAFE |
| Vic | GoTafe |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| Vic | SuniTAFE Auto |
| SA | TAFE SA |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
| NSW | TAFE NSW |
| WA | TAFE WA North Metropolitan |
Automotive Glazier
Description: Installs and repairs glass in heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Glazing Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 899411 (Motor Vehicle Parts and Accessories Fitter – General)
Automotive Parts Interpreter
Description: Identifies and supplies vehicle parts and equipment to customers in automotive retail, service, and repair environments.
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Sales.
ANZSCO Code: 621311 (Motor Vehicle or Caravan Salesperson)
Courses: AUR 31020
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| Vic | SuniTAFE Auto |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
Automotive Technician
Description: Specializes in the maintenance, repair, and servicing of heavy vehicles.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology,
- Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
- Certificate II In Automotive Servicing Technology
ANZSCO Code: 321211 (Motor Mechanic – General)
Courses: AUR 31120 & 31121
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Bendigo TAFE |
| Vic | Chisholm Automotive |
| Vic | GoTafe |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| Vic | SuniTAFE Auto |
| Vic | TAFE Gippsland |
| Vic | The Gordon |
| SA | TAFE SA |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
| NSW | TAFE NSW |
AUR20520 Certificate II In Automotive Servicing Technology
| Vic | Boxhill Automotive |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| SA | TAFE SA |
| NSW | TAFE NSW |
| WA | TAFE WA North Metropolitan |
Diesel Technician
Description: Focuses on diagnosing and repairing diesel engines in heavy vehicles.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology,
- Certificate III in Automotive Diesel Engine Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 321212 (Diesel Motor Mechanic)
Courses: AUR 31520
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
Electric Vehicle Technician
Description: Specializes in the maintenance and repair of electric heavy vehicles.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology (emerging field).
- Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set
ANZSCO Code: 321111 (Automotive Electrician)
Courses: 32721
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
AUR31120 Heavy Vehicle and AUR30320 Auto Electrical Dual Trade
| Vic | GoTafe |
AURSS00064 & (AURSS00034 Hybrid) Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
| WA | TAFE WA North Metropolitan |
HVAC Technician (for refrigerated transport)
Description: Installs and services heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in refrigerated transport vehicles.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration.
- Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology
ANZSCO Code: 342111 (Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic)
Courses: AUR20220
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Bendigo TAFE |
| Vic | Boxhill Automotive |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
| NSW | TAFE NSW |
Hydraulics Technician
Description: Specializes in the maintenance and repair of hydraulic systems in heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 323111 (Aircraft Maintenance Engineer – Avionics, applicable due to specific technical overlap)
Panel Beater
Description: Repairs and restores vehicle bodywork after damage.
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 324111 (Panelbeater)
Courses: 32120
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Vic | GoTafe |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
Spray Painter
Description: Applies paint and finishes to vehicle surfaces, ensuring a high-quality appearance.
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 324311 (Vehicle Painter)
Courses: AUR 32420
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Vic | GoTafe |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| SA | MTA SA/NT |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
Truck and Trailer Technician
Description: Focuses on the maintenance and repair of truck and trailer systems and components.
Qualification: Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Trailer Technology.
ANZSCO Code: 321212 (Diesel Motor Mechanic)
Tyre Fitter
Description: Installs, repairs, and maintains tyres on heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate II in Automotive Tyre Servicing Technology.
ANZSCO Code: (Tyre Fitter)
Courses: AUR 21920
| Qld | MTA Institute |
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| NSW | MTA NSW |
Builds and assembles vehicle components.
Joins and repairs metal structures.
Installs and services hydraulic systems.
Assists in the development and maintenance of heavy vehicle systems.
Automotive Machinist
Description: Precision machines engine components and other parts for heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade.
ANZSCO Code: 323214 (Metal Machinist – First Class)
Draftsperson
Description: Draftspersons create detailed technical drawings and plans used in the design and manufacture of heavy vehicles. These drawings are essential for engineers and manufacturers to produce accurate and functional parts and assemblies.
Qualification: Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting.
ANZCO Code: 312511 (Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson)
Engineering - Certificate Level Pathways
Description: Certificate level engineering pathways provide foundational knowledge and skills in various engineering disciplines, serving as a stepping stone towards advanced engineering roles. These pathways are designed to prepare individuals for further study or entry-level positions in the industry.
- Qualifications:
Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade - Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
- Certificate IV in Engineering (provides specialization in areas such as CAD, CNC, and welding)
ANZSCO Code: Various codes depending on specialization, but generally related to the broader category of Engineers and Engineering Technicians.
Manufacturing Engineer
Description: Designs and oversees manufacturing processes and equipment for heavy vehicle production.
Qualification: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical),
Bachelor of Engineering (Manufacturing and Management).
ANZSCO Code: 233513 (Production or Plant Engineer)
Metal Fabricator
Description: Fabricates metal parts and structures used in the construction and repair of heavy vehicles.
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade.
ANZSCO Code: 322311 (Metal Fabricator)
Vehicle Body Builder
Description: Constructs and assembles the body and frame of heavy vehicles.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations – Bus, Truck, and Trailer.
- Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Trailer Technology
ANZSCO Code: 324211 (Vehicle Body Builder)
Courses: AUM 30218
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
| NSW | TAFE NSW |
AUR31820 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Trailer Technology
| Qld | TAFE Qld |
| Vic | GoTafe |
| Vic | Kangan Automotive |
Welding and Fabrication
Description: Fabricates and repairs metal components and structures for heavy vehicles using welding techniques.
Qualification:
- Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade,
- Certificate IV in Engineering.
ANZSCO Code: 322313 (Welder – First Class)
Oversees vehicle fleets for efficiency & safety
Ensures smooth transport of goods
Plans & Optimises vehicle routes
Forklift Operator
Description: Moves goods and materials within a warehouse or production facility using a forklift.
Qualification:
- “High-Risk Work Licence (LF)
- Certificate II in Transport and Logistics (Road Transport – Forklift Operations).
ANZSCO Code: 721311 (Forklift Driver)
Heavy Vehicle Driver
Description: Operates heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, for transportation of goods and passengers.
Qualification:
- Heavy Rigid (HR) Licence,
- Heavy Combination (HC) Licence
- Multi Combination (MC) Licence
ANZSCO Code: 733111 (Truck Driver – General)
Inventory Controller
Description: Manages stock levels, ensures accuracy in inventory records, and oversees the ordering and distribution of parts and materials.
Qualification: Certificate III in Warehousing Operations,
Certificate IV in Logistics.
ANZSCO Code: 591112 (Production Clerk)
IT and Telematics Specialist
Description: Manages and supports telematics systems and IT infrastructure in heavy vehicles for tracking and diagnostics.
Qualification:
- Diploma of Information Technology
- Certificate IV in Information Technology
- relevant telematics and vehicle technology training.
ANZSCO Code: 313112 (ICT Customer Support Officer)
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Description: Manages the flow of goods and materials from suppliers to customers, ensuring efficient and timely delivery.
Qualification: Certificate IV in Logistics, Diploma of Logistics.
ANZSCO Code: 133611 (Supply and Distribution Manager)
Quality Assurance and Compliance Officer
Description: Ensures that manufacturing processes and products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.
Qualification:
- Certificate IV in Quality Assurance
- Diploma of Quality Auditing.
ANZSCO Code: 139914 (Quality Assurance Manager)
Sales and Marketing Specialist
Description: Promotes and sells heavy vehicles and related services, developing marketing strategies to attract customers.
Qualification:
- Diploma of Business (Sales and Marketing),
- Certificate IV in Marketing and Communication.
ANZSCO Code: 225113 (Marketing Specialist)
Vehicle Inspector
Description: Inspects vehicles to ensure they comply with safety and regulatory standards.
Qualification:
- Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis,
- additional state-specific inspector certifications.
ANZSCO Code: 312512 (Mechanical Engineering Technician)
Warehouse Operator
Description: Receives, handles, and dispatches goods within a warehouse; ensures that stock is stored correctly and safely and inventory levels are maintained.
Qualification: Certificate II in Warehousing Operations,
Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations.
ANZSCO Code: 741111 (Storeperson)
Warehouse Supervisor
Description: Oversees warehouse operations, manages staff, ensures compliance with safety standards, and optimize workflows.
Qualification: Certificate IV in Warehousing Operations,
Diploma of Logistics.
ANZSCO Code: 591116 (Warehouse Administrator)
