Program Overview
Motor Mechanics Apprenticeship
Overview
A Motor Mechanic is a skilled technician who services, diagnoses and resolves technical concerns with light passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. This apprenticeship programme covers a range of key motor mechanic skills and knowledge which are essential in the workplace. The programme consists of 7 phases in total combining a mixture of ‘on the job’ learning and on campus training.
Course Details
- Location: Athlone
- Duration: 4 years
- Level: 6
- Course Type: Apprenticeships
- Study Mode: Apprenticeship
- Department: Civil Engineering & Trades
Minimum Entry Requirements
To become an apprentice, you must:
- Obtain employment as an apprentice in your chosen occupation.
- Ensure your employer is approved to train apprentices.
- Have your employer register you as an apprentice within two weeks of recruitment.
Course Breakdown
Phase 1 – With Employer
- Induction Training
- Introduction to Health & Safety
- Introduction to Tools & Equipment
- Introduction to Basic Skills
Phase 2: Delivered in Training Centre (20 weeks)
- Induction
- Body Electrics
- Engine Mechanical
- Ignition & Transducers
- Petrol Fuel Injection
- Transmission
- Suspension & Steering
- Brakes
- Compression Ignition
- Workshop Technology
- Related Theory
Phase 3: With Employer
- Work Based Training and Assessments
Phase 4: Delivered in TUS (10 weeks)
- Engine Mechanical
- Body Electrics
- Braking Systems
- Transmission
- Petrol Fuel Injection
- Steering & Suspension
- Compression Ignition
- Service-Quality & Management
- Related Theory
Phase 5: With Employer
- Work Based Training and Assessments
Phase 6: Delivered in TUS (10 weeks)
- Petrol Engine Management System
- Steering and Suspension
- Brakes
- Transmission
- Body Electronics
- Compression Ignition
Phase 7: With Employer
- Work Based Training and Assessments
Further Information
What is a Motor Mechanic?
A Motor Mechanic’s daily job work includes:
- Carrying out the routine service procedures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
- Examining and preparing the vehicle for the National Car Test (NCT) or the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT)
- Diagnosing and resolving problems with the operation of the mechanical and electrical systems of vehicles
- Carrying out all work in accordance with manufacturer’s recommended procedures.
Motor Mechanics are required to:
- Observe and adhere to all national and EU Health, Safety and Environmental legislation and precautions relative to their work.
- Read, interpret and adhere to the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions when servicing vehicles.
- Use specialised equipment to check the operation of the lighting, steering, braking and other systems and also to measure exhaust emissions, recording the results and liaising with the customer.
- Use logical thinking and manufacturer’s recommended diagnostic techniques to identify and resolve problems.
Personal Qualities and Skills
The Motor Mechanic must have the ability to:
- Plan and organise
- Communicate effectively
- Solve problems
- Work independently and as part of a team
- Show a positive attitude
- Recognise the need for good customer relations. Demonstrate good work practices including time keeping, tidiness, responsibility, quality awareness and safety awareness
Career Opportunities
On successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, apprentices are qualified to work within the recognised trade or profession. Opportunities for advancement are available for apprentices and craftspersons that have the necessary initiative, ability and basic qualifications. These include advanced technology courses and management courses which are available in Institutes of Technology, Schools of Management and Professional Institutes.
Many apprentices use their apprenticeship qualification as a platform to launch careers such as engineers, managers, self-employed business owners, technical trainers, Instructors, lecturers, teachers amongst others.
Pay and Training Allowance
For this Motor Mechanics apprenticeship, the employer pays the apprentice while s/he is being trained on-the-job. The rate of pay is agreed between the employer and the apprentice.
A training allowance is paid by the local Education and Training Board while the apprentice is attending the off-the-job training. In some cases, a contribution towards travel or accommodation costs may be paid if deemed eligible. The industrial designation of the employer will determine the allowance payable.
