Outdoor Power Equipment Technician

Description:

Outdoor power equipment technicians repair and service small machines such as stationary motors, lawnmowers, chainsaws, pumps and generators.

Tasks and Duties:

• check and diagnose small engines for faults
• dismantle engines or other parts
• prepare quotes for customers
• repair or replace faulty parts
• replace motors
• check and repair lawnmowers, chainsaws and hand-held motors
• service engines
• tune motors by adjusting parts
• fit parts to improve the performance of machinery
• test repaired engines
• sell parts and equipment
• show customers how to maintain their equipment
• carry out electrical repairs
• attend call outs
• run their own business

Skills:

Outdoor power equipment technicians need to have good mechanical skills and must be able to diagnose faults. They should also have good communication skills, organisational ability and computer skills.

Knowledge:

Outdoor power equipment technicians need to know about how engines work, basic electronics and hydraulics, how to use parts manuals, relevant workplace health and safety regulations

It may also be useful to have an understanding of business management.

Personal Qualities:

Outdoor power equipment technicians need to be practical, responsible, reliable, patient and efficient. They should also be persistent when solving problems, have an eye for detail and be able to work well in a team.

Physical Requirements:

Outdoor power equipment technicians need to be reasonably fit and have good hand-eye co-ordination.

Educational Requirements:

NCEA Level I in English, maths and workshop technology are preferred.

Entry Requirements:

The National Certificate for Entry to Automotive Trades is recommended before starting an apprenticeship, and it is useful to have a drivers licence.

Useful Experience

Electrical work, work in a hardware store or work assembling lawnmowers, chainsaws and other small engines may be useful. It is also useful to have worked or trained in other areas of the automotive industry.

Training on the job

Many skills are gained on the job. An outdoor power equipment technician apprenticeship can be done through the National Certificate in Outdoor Power Equipment Servicing, which can be gained by completing both on and off-the-job training. For further information contact the New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO).

Work Places

Outdoor power equipment technicians work in workshops. Some travel may be required to repair equipment at clients’ homes or workplaces, or to attend courses and seminars.Website link

https://www.careers.govt.nz/qualifications/view/4009/9013#about-the-course