Certificate III in Mobile Plant Mechanical Technology (Apprenticeship)

If you enjoy problem-solving, working with heavy machinery, and diagnosing complex mechanical systems, the Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology is an excellent pathway to a rewarding and high-demand career in the heavy equipment and mobile plant service industries.
Delivered as an apprenticeship, this course combines real-world, hands-on experience in the workplace with structured training at TAFE Gippsland. You’ll develop the technical expertise required to diagnose, repair, and maintain mobile plant equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, graders, loaders, and haul trucks, while gaining a strong understanding of safety, hydraulics, electronics, and emerging technologies in the sector.
Your training will prepare you to work across a variety of industries, including construction, mining, and agriculture, where reliable, skilled mechanics are essential. With the increasing use of advanced mobile plant machinery across Australia, this qualification provides outstanding job security and opportunities for long-term career progression.

If you’re passionate about working on large mobile plant and earthmoving machinery, the Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology provides a direct pathway to a rewarding career in the civil, mining, and heavy equipment service industries.
Delivered as an apprenticeship, this course combines hands-on workplace learning with structured training at TAFE Gippsland. You’ll develop the essential skills to diagnose, service, and repair a wide range of mobile plant equipment, including loaders, excavators, graders, bulldozers, and haul trucks used across construction, earthmoving, forestry, and mining operations.
From your second year onwards, your training will be delivered from our Yallourn or Bairnsdale Trade Centres for the remainder of your apprenticeship. These purpose-built facilities are equipped with modern resources, heavy-duty simulators, and diagnostic technology that replicate industry environments.
You’ll have access to experienced trainers and real-world equipment, ensuring your skills align with current industry standards.
By the time you finish your apprenticeship, you’ll be confident diagnosing complex faults, performing mechanical repairs, and maintaining hydraulic, electrical, and powertrain systems on heavy machinery used across multiple industries.

Completing this apprenticeship prepares you for employment in a range of industries and job roles, including:
• Mobile Plant Mechanical Technician
• Heavy Equipment Service Technician
• Earthmoving Equipment Maintenance Technician
• Field Service or Workshop Technician
Opportunities exist in sectors such as:
• Civil construction and earthmoving workshops
• Mining and quarry operations
• Equipment hire and service companies
• Heavy machinery dealerships and contractors

Graduates of this course can progress to:
• Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis (AUR40216) – for advanced diagnostic and fault-finding skills in mobile plant and heavy machinery systems.
• Certificate IV in Automotive Management (AUR40620) – to move into supervisory or management roles within heavy equipment service operations.
• Certificate IV in Engineering (MEM40119) – to expand into fabrication, inspection, or advanced maintenance relevant to mobile plant.
• Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology (AUR20220) – to gain specialist skills and a Refrigerant Handling Licence through the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC).
• Specialist short courses or skill sets in advanced diagnostics, hydraulic systems, or field service operations for heavy equipment.

By completing this qualification, you will develop the skills and knowledge needed to confidently work as a mobile plant mechanical technician, including:
• Diagnosis and repair of engines, drivetrains, steering, suspension, braking, and hydraulic systems on heavy mobile plant machinery.
• Service, maintenance, and overhaul of machinery such as excavators, loaders, graders, and haul trucks to manufacturer specifications.
• Safe operation and testing of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems in field and workshop environments.
• Use of specialised tools, testing, and diagnostic equipment for accurate fault-finding and mechanical repair.
• Workplace health and safety compliance to ensure safe and effective maintenance and repair practices.
• Problem-solving and planning skills to manage complex servicing and diagnostic tasks in demanding environments such as civil construction and mining.
• Technical literacy, including interpreting service manuals, schematics, and electronic diagnostic data relevant to mobile plant systems.

Are there specified requirements for entry into the course/qualification?: Yes

Mandatory entry requirements:

Learners must be registered as Australian apprentices with the Australian Apprenticeships Commission.

Recommended entry Requirements:

There are no mandatory prerequisites.
However, learners who have completed a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR20720) or have had previous exposure to mechanical or heavy equipment environments will benefit from prior knowledge of:
• Basic mechanical systems and component function.
• Safe workshop practices and familiarity with tools.
• Workplace readiness and understanding of mechanical principles.
While not essential, this prior experience can improve student outcomes and progression throughout the course.

Limitations to course Entry:

If aged 15 to 17, learners require a school release form from their secondary school.

Not applicable.

Will this course/qualification or a constituent unit provide a pathway to an industry licence or regulated outcome: No