How to become an auto electrician in NZ

No two days for an auto electrician are the same. One day, you might be diagnosing electrical issues in an older model, while the next, you could be installing systems in a hybrid or electric vehicle. You’ll work with tools like diagnostic software, oscilloscopes, and circuit testers to check systems and troubleshoot problems. Alongside repairs, you might also be involved in installing custom systems or upgrading vehicle tech, especially as more people look to keep their cars updated with the latest gadgets and tech.

Wondering if you should change careers? Find out what makes a job an opportunity. 

The difference between an auto technician and an auto electrician comes down to the focus areas of their work, especially as cars have become more electronic and tech-heavy. Here’s a breakdown:

Auto technicians 

Auto technicians are like the all-rounders of the car world. They’re the ones who work on pretty much everything in a car – from the engine and brakes to the suspension and even the electronics. They’re the ones you’ll usually see when you need a general check-up or a fix for something that’s not working right. As cars get more high-tech, they’re getting involved with the electronics, too, but they’re still the go-to for most things under the hood.

Want to learn more? Browse auto technician job listings. 

Auto electricians

On the other hand, auto electricians are the tech geeks of the car world. They focus purely on the electrical systems – think wiring, batteries, alternators, and all the electronics that make today’s cars run. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and all the tech packed into new cars, auto electricians are in high demand. If it’s got a wire or a chip, they’re your person.

Picture your future role — read some auto electrician job listings. 

First, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship. This combines on-the-job training with a New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering. Here’s a roadmap to help you get started:

1. Scope out job boards and apprenticeship program: Start your hunt on Trade Me Jobs, where you can find listings specifically for auto electrician apprenticeships. You can filter by location and pick jobs close to home or where you’d love to live.

2. Check out industry-specific programs: Organisations like MITO New Zealand are hooked into the automotive industry and offer apprenticeship programs designed to help you get hands-on experience while learning on the job. Plus, they’ll connect you with employers in your area — so it’s a good place to get started if you’re not sure who’s hiring.

3. Hit up local dealerships and garages: Sometimes, the best approach is old school — just reach out to local dealerships and workshops to see if they’re open to taking on an apprentice. If you’re eager to learn, you’ll be surprised how many businesses would be keen to bring someone on. 

Check out the 15 types of apprenticeships in NZ. 

Auckland and Wellington have tons of workshops and garages that cater to all kinds of vehicles. But don’t sleep on places like Tauranga and Hamilton — they’ve got some of the best opportunities, especially if you want to work with bigger equipment or fleets in industries like mining or heavy machinery. 

Don’t believe us? See all the great auto electrician job listings for Tauranga and Hamilton.

Starting out, you can expect a salary of around $60,000 and $65,000, which increases as you gain experience and specialise. In-demand skills, like working on EVs, can bump that up even further. However, lots of auto electricians go on to start their own businesses, giving them the flexibility and earning potential to take their careers to the next level.
See our guide on how to improve your career development.

If you want to take things up a notch as an auto electrician, here are some of the most exciting paths you can pursue, along with tips on how to get there:

Electric vehicle (EV) specialist

With EVs booming, auto electricians with EV expertise are in huge demand. You’ll work on cutting-edge technology in Teslas, hybrids, and even electric buses.

How to get there:

• Take courses in EV technology and safety through providers like the Motor Industry Training Organisation in New Zealand.

• Gain hands-on experience by working with companies specialising in EVs, or consider an EV-specific apprenticeship if available.

High-performance vehicle technician

High-performance and luxury vehicles (think Ferraris and Lamborghinis) have advanced electrical systems that require top-tier skills. This role involves working with powerful engines and cutting-edge onboard tech.

How to get there:

• Gain a solid foundation in auto electronics and complete an apprenticeship.

• Do additional certifications in high-performance vehicle systems.

• Look for roles with specialty shops or dealerships that cater to luxury and performance vehicles.