What qualifications do I need to be a mechanical engineering tradesperson?
You don’t need a university degree to start a career in mechanical engineering. An apprenticeship gives you practical skills, real experience, and recognised qualifications.
You’ll earn while you learn and build a pathway into in-demand engineering roles.
Becoming a mechanical engineer or a skilled mechanical trades professional in New Zealand requires education, hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications. You can launch your career through a trade apprenticeship or vocational training, or advance with higher academic degrees. Both pathways blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, setting the stage for a rewarding career in the mechanical field.
WHAT IS A MECHANICAL ENGINEERING APPRENTICESHIP
An apprenticeship is a structured training programme that combines hands-on work experience with academic study. Mechanical engineering apprenticeships allow aspiring engineers to develop practical skills while earning a qualification. They are also a job where a learner gets paid and does not incur a student loan.
By working in real-world environments, apprentices gain valuable experience and can specialise across various strands of mechanical engineering such as maintenance, toolmaking and machining. Apprenticeships also provide a pathway to more advanced qualifications, making them an important step towards more advanced qualifications.
How to Get Started with ATNZ
Chat with us about engineering apprenticeships, industry training programmes and specialised short courses: Whether you’re looking to start your journey to becoming a qualified mechanical engineer, host an ATNZ apprentice, or train your team through our top-tier engineering programmes, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Fitting and Machining – Apprenticeship
The Fitting and Machining Apprenticeship is designed for those seeking hands-on mechanical engineering experience, particularly in fitting and machining. This apprenticeship is awarded with the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4), specialising in the Fitting and Machining strand.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Fitting and Machining |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 284 |
| Programme Length | Approx 48 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
General Engineering – Apprenticeship
The General Engineering Apprenticeship provides a comprehensive foundation in mechanical engineering, covering a wide range of engineering skills and knowledge. This programme leads to the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4), with a specialisation in General Engineering
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | General Engineering |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 282 |
| Programme Length | Approx 48 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
Machining – Apprenticeship
The Machining Apprenticeship is designed for those who want to specialise in machining processes such as turning, milling, and drilling. This pathway equips you with the skills needed to work in manufacturing and precision engineering, focusing on the accurate and efficient production of mechanical components.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Machining |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 280 |
| Programme Length | Approx 48 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
Maintenance Engineering – Apprenticeship
Focuses on maintaining and repairing industrial machinery and equipment. This apprenticeship is perfect for those who want to ensure the smooth operation of mechanical systems.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Maintenance Engineering |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 280 |
| Programme Length | Approx 48 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
Metal Forming (Casting) – Apprenticeship
Specialises in the process of shaping metal using casting techniques. This apprenticeship is ideal for those interested in metalworking techniques such as forging, rolling and pressing.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Metal Forming |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 280 |
| Programme Length | Approx 48 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
Toolmaking – Apprenticeship
This apprenticeship teaches the design and manufacture of tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing. It’s a great fit for those with a keen interest in precision engineering.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Tool Making |
| Level | 4 |
| Credits | 300 |
| Programme Length | Approx 52 months |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
| Leads To | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5) |
Fluid Power Engineering Fundamentals – Level 3
This programme provides foundational knowledge in fluid power systems, including hydraulics and pneumatics. It’s essential for those working in industries like manufacturing and aerospace.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) |
|---|---|
| Strand | Mechanical Engineering |
| Level | 3 |
| Credits | 95 |
| Programme Length | 65 weeks |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) – Level 5
This programme aims to develop highly skilled tradespeople with advanced technical skills and supervisory capabilities. It prepares graduates to significantly contribute to business success and competitiveness in mechanical engineering, construction, manufacturing, fabrication, refrigeration, air conditioning, and mechanical building services.
Programme Overview
| Qualification | Mechanical Engineering Advanced (Trade) (Level 5) |
|---|---|
| Strand | General Engineering |
| Level | 5 |
| Credits | 70 |
| Programme Length | Approx 1 year |
| Study Type | Workplace-Based/Online/Self-Study |
| Starting Time | Any Time |
| Location | NZ Wide |
| Approved by | NZQA |
How to Get Started with ATNZ
Chat to us about doing an engineering apprenticeship – Our team is here to help you understand the process and get started on your path to becoming a qualified engineer.
Chat to us about hosting an ATNZ apprentice – If you’re an employer interested in hosting an apprentice, we can guide you through the process and match you with the right candidate.
Chat to us about ATNZ training your apprentice – Enhance your current workforce by providing your team members with top-tier training through our apprenticeship programmes.
Professional Engineer: 4-year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
To become a professional engineer, you will need a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree. This qualification provides in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and prepares you for leadership roles in the industry. ATNZ does not offer this.
Engineering Technologist: 3-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology
A 3-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology degree is designed for those who wish to work as engineering technologists. This qualification equips you with practical skills and technical knowledge for various engineering applications. Although ATNZ does not offer this programme, it remains an example of the diverse educational pathways available in the engineering field.
Conclusion
Whether you choose an apprenticeship, a short course, or a university degree, there are multiple pathways to becoming a mechanical engineer in New Zealand. Each qualification offers unique opportunities to gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this dynamic field. Choose the path that best fits your career goals and start building your future in mechanical engineering.