New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4)
Mechanical
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A four-year part-time apprenticeship programme equipping learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to work independently as Mechanical Engineering tradespeople in New Zealand's mechanical engineering and manufacturing industries.
NZ$8,000
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Apply health and safety legislation and workplace safety culture
Work safely and meet responsibilities in a commercial mechanical engineering environment using knowledge of relevant health and safety requirements.
Interpret engineering drawings and specifications
About This Course
This hands-on apprenticeship programme provides strong foundational and advanced mechanical engineering knowledge and skills to work without supervision across the mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and associated sectors. Delivered part-time over four years, it combines on-job, workplace-based learning with online and on-campus block courses, under a formal apprenticeship agreement. The curriculum covers machining, fabrication, welding, health and safety, calculations, drawing, materials, and quality systems. The programme supports upskilling and broadening work capabilities and leads to a New Zealand Certificate at NZQA Level 4.
Course Content
- Health and safety legislation and workplace culture
- General fabrication principles and skills
- Engineering core skills: hand tools, measurement, workshop tasks
- Engineering materials and their properties
- Machining processes (general, intermediate, advanced, CNC)
- Engineering calculations and drawing (progressive levels)
- Welding processes (basic to advanced, MMAW, GMAW, GTAW, aluminium, stainless steel)
- Mechanical fitting (bearings, seals, lubrication systems, alignment, servicing, condition monitoring)
- Engineering efficiencies and processes
- Fabrication practices (elementary, intermediate, advanced)
- Fluid power systems
- Communication and teamwork in mechanical engineering
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Mechanical Engineering TradespersonFitter TurnerFitterGeneral EngineerMachinistMaintenance EngineerHeavy Industrial EngineerMetal CasterFoundrymanMoulderCast Metals EngineerToolmaker
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
