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Outdoor Power Equipment Technician

Outdoor power equipment technicians repair and service small machines such as stationary motors, lawnmowers, ride on lawnmowers, chainsaws, pumps, generators, scrub and brush cutters, and grass trimmers.

Tasks & duties

Outdoor power equipment technicians may do some or all of the following:

serve customers across the counter
prepare quotes for customers
check and diagnose faults in lawnmowers, chainsaws and hand-held motors
check and diagnose faults in small engines
dismantle engines or other parts
repair or replace faulty parts
carry out basic electrical repairs
tune motors by adjusting parts
replace motors
test repaired engines
sell parts and equipment
show customers how to maintain their equipment
attend call outs
run their own business

Skills & knowledge

Outdoor power equipment technicians need to have:

knowledge of how engines work
knowledge of electronics and hydraulics
mechanical skills
problem-solving skills
communication skills
customer service skills
organisational skills
computer skills
a basic understanding of business management

Entry requirements

To become an outdoor power equipment technician you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Outdoor Power Equipment Servicing. For further information contact the New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO).

Secondary education

School Certificate or NCEA equivalent English and maths is preferred.

Tertiary education

The National Certificate for Entry to Automotive Trades is recommended before starting an apprenticeship.

Training on the job

Outdoor power equipment technicians gain many skills on the job. They may also attend seminars and courses held by manufacturers to keep up to date with new equipment.

MITO has established a structured career pathway for outdoor power equipment technicians, extending to advanced technical (ATech), first line management and business management qualifications.