Working Life
While common engineering skills will be developed over the duration of the programme, the OEM Engineering technician, uniquely, will cultivate the skills necessary to assemble, install, test, commission and electronically control engine-driven (diesel and gas) and battery powered systems.
The OEM Engineering Technician will have the necessary skills to analyse these systems together with electrical wiring systems, hydraulics systems, pneumatic systems and robotics systems to identify specific faults encountered in OEM products. OEM Engineering Technicians will possess the expertise to provide support to customers around the use and maintenance of the products they manufacture.
The OEM Engineering Technician will be required to interpret technical data and use calibration, torquing, and testing instruments for effective product assembly, fault diagnosis and rectification. They will also be responsible for the installation and calibration of sensors and transmitting and controlling devices.
The OEM Engineering Technician will be a key member of cross functional teams such as research and development, assembly, manufacturing, testing, customer support, service & installation, product management and marketing/sales.
Qualities -
At the end of the Apprenticeship, the OEM Engineering Technician will be able to demonstrate competence in the following:
Core Skills
- Equipment assembly using testing procedures, interpretation of technical drawings, schematics, data and relevant OEM standards in a manufacturing environment
- Installation, use, testing and troubleshooting of hydraulic, electro mechanical, pneumatic, electrical wiring and automated control systems in a manufacturing environment
Specialist Skills
- Fault diagnosis and rectification within OEM products across engine driven systems, electrical wiring systems, battery powered systems, hydraulics systems, pneumatic systems and control systems
- Installation, use, testing and troubleshooting of robotics systems, battery powered systems, diesel and gas engines
- Manufacture, installation and commissioning of OEM products
- Customer service and support around the correct use and maintenance of OEM products
Common Skills
- Health and safety procedures, including the selection, safe use of and storage of craft-related tools, plant, equipment, components and materials
- Engineering workshop techniques and practice
- Fitting and torqing of various fasteners, e.g nuts, bolts, hydraulic fittings, electrical connections etc.
- Manufacturing efficiency (LEAN) principles to the OEM workplace
- Mathematical calculations/principles during installation, use, testing and fault diagnosis associated with OEM products
- Use of common computer applications
Personal Skills
- Communications
- Customer service and support
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Ability to work independently
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Time management/planning
- Information gathering Report writing
Interests - OEM Engineering Technician
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - OEM Engineering Technician
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include:
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PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include:
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Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples:
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Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include:
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Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include:
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Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
