A career in manufacturing can be varied and rewarding. There are many pathways available and a course in manufacturing can lead to numerous work opportunities. You might decide to take on an electrical engineering career or work as a CAD operator or production worker. You could also be employed as an automotive electrician or mechanic or work as a plant engineer or polymer technician. If you’re not sure which qualification would be best for you, here are some of the most popular choices for further study in manufacturing:

Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology

A Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology is the course you need if you’re planning to get an automotive air conditioning licence. You’ll be prepared to work in a range of roles including apprentice automotive electrician or apprentice mechanic. The Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology will give you the skills you need to diagnose, service and repair air conditioning and HVAC systems.

Certificate II in Automotive Electrical Technology

The Certificate II in Automotive Electrical Technology is a great way to get started in the auto-electrical industry. You’ll develop the skills you need to work as an apprentice automotive electrician or apprentice mechanic. This course covers topics such as soldering electrical wiring and circuits, installing vehicle lighting and wiring systems, testing and repairing electrical circuits and batteries and working safely in an auto-electrical workshop.

Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology

If you’re hoping to start an apprenticeship in automotive repairs, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to test and service batteries, braking systems, steering systems, engines and suspension systems. You’ll also cover topics such as workplace safety, tools and equipment. You’ll be prepared for roles including apprentice automotive electrician, apprentice mechanic, apprentice diesel fitter and automotive mechanic.

Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations

A Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations can prepare you for a range of work opportunities including operations officer, plant manager, plant operator, plant supervisor or polymer technician. You’ll learn about levelling, trenches, concreting, earthworks and working safety on a civil construction site. This course also allows you to develop your skills with heavy vehicles such as backhoes, graders, dozers and excavators.

Certificate III in Process Manufacturing

The Certificate III in Process Manufacturing is an excellent qualification if you’re hoping to get a start as a production worker. You’ll be prepared for a range of manufacturing duties as part of a production team. This course covers topics including personal safety, working to quality standards, working to a production schedule, picking and processing orders and preparing documentation and inventory reports.

Advanced Diploma of Applied Electrical Engineering (Electrical Systems)

If you want a career in an engineering field such as instrumentation, electronics or electrical power systems, consider an Advanced Diploma of Applied Electrical Engineering (Electrical Systems). This course will prepare you for roles including electrical engineer, plant operator or CAD operator. You’ll cover topics like mathematics in engineering, electrical circuits, electrical power distribution, earthing and surge protection, electrical safety and wiring systems and energy use and efficiency.

Advanced Diploma of Plant Engineering

The Advanced Diploma of Plant Engineering is designed for experienced tradespeople who want to further their knowledge of plant engineering technologies. You’ll learn about mechanical equipment, fluid power systems, pumps and seals, HVAC systems, pressure vessels and boilers, thermodynamics, compressors, fans and blowers, instrumentation and control engineering. This course will prepare you for roles including electrical engineer, plant operator and plant engineer.

Written by Jodie Magrath
Jodie Magrath
Jodie is a freelance writer with a background in communication and journalism. She’s spent almost 20 years working in roles such as Special Projects Writer and Publications Officer.