
Apprentice Mechanic [Heavy Vehicle] · Cairns, QLD
Temporary, Full-time
Maximum period of 4 years
N/A
FHVAPP
$1,625.60 - $2,660.00 per fortnight
Queensland Fire Department
ASSET SERVICES
Fleet Maintenance
Cairns
Midnight, Monday 12th October 2026
QFD/21685/26
Current Queensland Fire Department employees and volunteers must apply via their internal careers site.
The Queensland Fire Department (QFD) provides fire prevention, preparedness and multi-hazard emergency response services to Queensland communities.
Our Fleet Maintenance team repairs and maintains QFD's heavy, medium and light commercial fleet and equipment to meet National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Transport and Main Road (TMR) requirements.
We are looking for enthusiastic entry-level school leavers and/or experienced apprentices looking to continue their apprenticeship, who are committed to completing an approximate four year heavy vehicle apprenticeship. Reporting to the Workshop Supervisor, you will learn and assist with the repair, maintenance and installation of fire appliances and associated equipment, under the supervision of a qualified tradesperson.
personal protective equipment (PPE) kit
quality training and mentoring across the heavy vehicle mechanical trade, with the opportunity to experience the light vehicle trade
a safe workplace with some of the best equipment in the industry
ongoing career support and guidance
the opportunity to learn from a highly skilled, experienced team
formal TAFE/Registered Training Organisation studies – earn while you learn
Valid driver’s licence and familiarity with both manual and automatic transmissions.
Eligibility for enrolment in or progression towards the relevant Trade Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Mechanic, or other Trade Certificate as deemed suitable by the Commissioner, QFD.
Commitment to complete a four year apprenticeship and obtain a nationally recognised qualification.
Learn repair, maintenance, manufacture and installation skills in light and heavy vehicles (including automatic and manual transmissions), light fabrication (sheet metal) and auto electrical.
Learn through formal training and hands-on work under our trained light and heavy vehicle mechanics.
Diagnose faults, including electrical, across the QFD fire appliance fleet and equipment.
Work with the Workshop Supervisor and senior mechanics to isolate problems and find practical, safe solutions.
Safely use hand and specialised tools, including electronic diagnostic equipment, in line with Workplace Health and Safety requirements.
Complete manufacturer and in-house training towards a trade certificate in heavy vehicle road transport.
You will be assessed on these Leadership Competencies for Queensland (Individual Contributor stream – leading self):
Stimulates ideas and innovation
Makes insightful decisions
Builds enduring relationships
Drives accountability and outcomes
Fosters healthy and inclusive workplaces
Demonstrates sound governance
Once you join us, we will want you to exemplify our shared values: Respect, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty and Trust.
QFD is recognised as an employer of choice for women by Work180 and celebrates all diversity.
Please refer to the QFD Public Service Application Guide [All PS Classifications/Streams and Senior Officer] for how to apply, and contact us to discuss any reasonable adjustments if required.
The good
What surprises people
Industry averages for a qualified Diesel Motor Mechanic, across all employers — not this employer’s offer, and after you finish the apprenticeship, not during.
$1,405/wk
Typical weekly earnings
1%
Share who are women
Stable
Growth outlook