Technical and Para-Professional Training

The technical field of work draws upon a range of skills and knowledge beyond that which may be associated with the trades. Technicians are required to demonstrate an understanding of specialised knowledge and to analyse, diagnose, design and execute judgement across a broad range of technical functions. Technicians may be called upon to generate ideas through the analysis of information and concepts at an abstract level and to demonstrate a command of wide-ranging, highly specialised technical, creative or conceptual skills. The degree to which knowledge and skills might be called upon will depend on the qualification level attained.

Due to the nature of the work, would be technicians would do well to have enhanced mathematical ability - an ability that would typically be displayed by those who successfully complete higher-level Year 12 mathematics, science or engineering studies subjects.

What type of work does a technician do?
Typical fields in which a technician might work include, drafting, design, non-destructive testing, mechatronics, process improvement, research, mechanical or electronic systems and their applications, sustainability, environmental controls, technical sales, etc.

Entering the technical field of work
Entry into the technical field might be gained through completion of a part-time or full-time course of study or through a traineeship or cadetship. Although the majority of people commence their studies in the technical fields directly from school, it is not unusual for tradespeople to also seek advancement through completion of higher-level technical qualifications.

What is a traineeship or cadetship?
A traineeship is an employment and training arrangement through which a training contract binds an employer and a trainee for the period of the traineeship and during which the trainee completes a nationally recognised qualification. A cadetship in this instance takes the form of a traineeship to meet legislative requirements but for marketing purposes may be known as a cadetship. The cadetship is often promoted in association with the Manufacturing Technology qualifications (see below).

What training is involved?
There are a range of qualifications that provide an entry point into the technical field of work. These qualifications are directly linked to a traineeship. The Diploma and the Advanced Diploma may also be undertaken through a traineeship or through a course of full-time or part-time study taken on outside of any contractual employment arrangement. The range of available qualifications includes:- 

• Certificate III in Manufacturing Technology
• Certificate IV in Manufacturing Technology
• Certificate III in Engineering - Technical
• Diploma of Engineering - Technical
• Advanced Diploma of Engineering

What employment conditions apply to trainee technicians and cadets?
Trainees and cadets in the manufacturing and engineering technical fields are generally covered by either, the Manufacturing and Associated Industries – Skills Development – Wages and Conditions Award 2004 or the Metal, Engineering and Associated Industries Award 1998 – Part II.

How do I employ a trainee?
Like apprenticeships, traineeship contractual arrangements are organised through an Australian Apprenticeship Centre (AAC), and the Apprenticeship Centre manages the whole process, including access to incentives.

Government incentives
Government incentives generally apply to trainees in the technical fields but arrangements may differ from state to state, particularly at the higher levels.  Check with your Australian Apprenticeship Centre for details.

For further information

Should you require further information on the training for training technicians, please contact your nearest Ai Group Education and Training Adviser (ETA).