Qualifications
Mechanical Engineering |
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Click here to view the training pathways from Level 2 to Level 6 for Mechanical Engineering leaners.
Level 2 Mechanical Engineering. This qualification covers the foundation skills for the mechanical engineering and fabrication trades, and may be used as the first stage of an apprenticeship or as the basis for pre-trade courses. This qualification is for people looking to enter into careers in general engineering, machining, toolmaking, fitting, engineering maintenance, fabrication, and marine engineering. The Level 2 National Certificate commonly leads to Level 4 and 5 trade qualifications in mechanical engineering or fabrication, and can ultimately to the Level 6 National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Click here for more information on the Level 2 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.
Level 4 Mechanical Engineering is a trade qualification for people in the engineering industry. It combines a broad, common foundation of mechanical engineering unit standards, with specific 'strands' with unit standards covering more specialised skills and knowledge. A person undertaking this type of training would achieve most units while working (on-job), with some learning required at polytechnic courses or via correspondence (off-job) - this combination of training is what's known as an apprenticeship.
The General Engineering strand is for those employed in a general engineering workshop situation, where the work may involve fitting, machining, welding, maintenance, repair, hydraulics, pneumatics, marine or rail engineering, fabrication, or gunsmithing. Often the work will involve creating 'one-off' pieces ordered by customers, or contract work for other companies. Click here for more information on the Level 4 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering General Engineering.
The Fitting and Machining strand is designed for those employed in machine building and related occupations, where both precision fitting and machining skills are needed. Typically this involves machining, assembly, and alignment of components to close tolerances, machine installation, and hydraulic or pneumatic control systems. Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machinery and simple toolmaking may be involved in some enterprises. Click here for more information on the Level 4 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Fitting and Machining.
The Machining strand is for those employed in enterprises where the emphasis is on precision machining of components. These enterprises typically employ sophisticated CNC mills and lathes to produce engineering components to high degrees of tolerance and a high-quality finish. Click here for more information on the Level 4 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Machining.
The Maintenance Engineering strand is for those employed on engineering maintenance work in enterprises where the emphasis is on maintaining reliable production, possibly in a lean (competitive) manufacturing environment. These enterprises typically have a planned approach to maintenance, involving computerised maintenance systems and condition monitoring. This strand is also appropriate for those employed in contract maintenance work for such enterprises. Click here for more information on the Level 4 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Maintenance.
The Toolmaking strand is for those employed in enterprises making tooling, press tooling, moulds, dies, gauges, jigs, and fixtures for industrial processes. Tools are typically used in sheet metal presses, or in injection moulding, blow moulding, extrusion, and pressure diecasting operations. The making of these tools requires knowledge of tool operation and Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) techniques, and may involve machining using computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining centres or electro discharge machines (EDM). Click here for more information on the Level 4 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Toolmaking.
Level 5 Machining and Toolmaking. This qualification is designed to provide maximum flexibility in the selection of unit standards while maintaining the professional profile developed by industry. People awarded this qualification have achieved skills and knowledge in the fields of advanced engineering technology, first line management, business and administration. They are able to apply higher level skills in the engineering machining and toolmaking industry. They are also able specialise in the areas of mechanical engineering applicable to their employment requirements and their personal preferences and interests.
This qualification is a progression from the Level 4 National Certificate in Engineering Machining and Toolmaking and leads on to the Level 6 National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
Click here for more information on the Level 5 National Certificate in Machining and Toolmaking.
Level 5 Maintenance and Diagnostics. This qualification is designed to provide maximum flexibility in the selection of unit standards while maintaining the professional profile developed by industry. People awarded this qualification have achieved skills and knowledge in the fields of advanced engineering technology, supervision, business and administration. They are able to apply higher level skills in maintenance and diagnostics in the mechanical engineering industry. They are also able specialise in the areas of mechanical engineering applicable to their employment requirements and their personal preferences and interests. This qualification is a progression from the Level 4 National Certificate in Maintenance and Diagnostics in Mechanical Engineering, and leads on to the Level 6 National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
Click here for more information on the Level 5 National Certificate in Maintenance and Diagnostics.
Level 6 National Diploma in Engineering. This qualification is designed for mechanical or production engineering technicians who understand a broad range of engineering fundamentals, and are able to apply them in industry. It is particularly suitable for trades people who wish to advance into occupations requiring analytical, design, industrial, laboratory, or fieldwork skills. The diploma is can be completed in either the Mechanical Engineering or the Production Engineering strand, and may be achieved through two year full-time study or through part time study, depending on availability of Polytechnic courses. The qualification is recognised by the Institute of Professional Engineers NZ (IPENZ). Graduates may also qualify as an Associate Member (AIPENZ) after a suitable period of work experience.
Click here for more information on the Level 6 National Diploma in Engineering qualification.
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