Automotive Dismantler
Tasks & duties
Automotive dismantlers may do some or all of the following:
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assess vehicles and make offers to buy them
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remove all saleable parts from vehicles
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remove all flammable areas from vehicles such as plastic and carpet
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recycle fluids including oil
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ensure air-conditioning units and hazardous substances are disposed of appropriately
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cut usable quarters or halves off vehicles
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wash parts and coat them in rust inhibitor to stop rust
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label parts and put them into their correct storage area
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record details of imported cars and parts when they are unloaded
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sell parts to garages and the public
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keep records and receipts of transactions
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advise customers on parts in stock
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drive a tow-truck or hire a tow-truck company to recover vehicles
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search computer databases for parts
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sell vehicle remnants for scrap metal
Specialisations
Automotive dismantlers may choose to specialise in one type, make or model of vehicle.
Skills & knowledge
Automotive dismantlers need to have:
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knowledge of the value of second-hand vehicles and parts
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knowledge of vehicle engines and parts and how they work
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knowledge of safety in the workshop
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mechanical skills for using workshop tools and dismantling vehicles into usable parts
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practical skills
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organisational ability
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communication skills
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computer skills
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business and sales skills
Entry requirements
To become an automotive dismantler you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Automotive Dismantling and Recycling. For further information about apprenticeships contact the New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO).
Tertiary education
It is an advantage to have completed a National Certificate for Entry to Automotive Trades or a National Certificate for Entry to Motor Body Trades before beginning an apprenticeship in automotive dismantling.
Training on the job
The Motor Trade Association offers training in how to safely dismantle vehicle features such as air bags.
Useful experience
Useful experience for automotive dismantlers includes any work with machines and vehicles, or experience as an automotive engineer or electrician.
Related courses
Automotive Engineering
Panel Beating
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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