The Australian automotive sector is evolving, with consistent demand for skilled professionals in vehicle manufacturing, repair, electric vehicle (EV) technology, and aftermarket services.
From mechanics and engineers to designers and sales experts, the industry offers a wide range of career paths, including emerging roles in autonomous and electric vehicle tech.
Automotive professionals in Australia often enjoy competitive wages, especially those with certifications or specializations, along with stable employment opportunities in both urban and regional areas.
Australia is investing in sustainable transport and EV infrastructure, offering professionals a chance to work on cutting-edge technologies that shape the future of mobility.
The sector welcomes skilled migrants through various visa programs, making it accessible to qualified international workers looking for long-term career prospects.
Australia’s automotive sector offers international candidates a variety of roles—from automotive design and engineering to diagnostics, sales, and vehicle customization—suiting both technical and creative professionals.
With a national push toward clean energy and advanced mobility, international talent can contribute to pioneering work in electric vehicle (EV) systems, autonomous driving technologies, and smart automotive software.
Australia recognizes international qualifications through various trade assessment authorities, making it easier for skilled professionals to integrate into the workforce with structured career development and upskilling programs.
The Australian government offers skilled migration visas for automotive trades and engineering roles, providing international candidates with the chance to build a stable, long-term career and life in Australia.
Specializes in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid systems. High demand across workshops, dealerships, and service centers.
Focuses on electrical systems in vehicles, including wiring, batteries, lighting, and electronic control units (ECUs), with growing demand in the EV sector.
Repairs and restores vehicle exteriors damaged by accidents. Skilled in panel beating, spray painting, and structural repairs.
Involved in designing, developing, and testing vehicle systems and components. Often works in R&D for manufacturers or tech companies focusing on innovation.
Specializes in heavy vehicles and machinery such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment. Common in mining, transport, and agriculture industries.
Identifies and sources the correct parts and accessories for repairs or customizations. Works with manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers.
Advises customers on vehicle purchases, financing options, and trade-ins. Works in dealerships and often earns performance-based bonuses.
Cleans, polishes, and restores vehicles to showroom condition, often working for car dealerships, rental companies, or private clients.
Applies paint and finishes to vehicles after repairs or custom projects. Requires precision and expertise in color matching and spray techniques.
A growing role focused on diagnosing and servicing electric and hybrid vehicles, involving advanced knowledge of battery systems and energy management.
Job Profile |
Average Salary (AUD/year) |
USD/year |
INR/year |
---|---|---|---|
Automotive Engineer |
95,000 |
63,650 |
₹5,320,000 |
Diesel Mechanic |
80,000 |
53,600 |
₹4,480,000 |
Automotive Electrician |
78,000 |
52,260 |
₹4,368,000 |
Automotive Technician (EV/Hybrid) |
85,000 |
56,950 |
₹4,760,000 |
Vehicle Body Repair Technician |
70,000 |
46,900 |
₹3,920,000 |
Automotive Mechanic |
75,000 |
50,250 |
₹4,200,000 |
Automotive Painter |
68,000 |
45,560 |
₹3,808,000 |
Vehicle Detailer |
50,000 |
33,500 |
₹2,800,000 |
Motor Vehicle Parts Interpreter |
60,000 |
40,200 |
₹3,360,000 |
Workshop Manager |
100,000 |
67,000 |
₹5,600,000 |
Automotive Service Advisor |
65,000 |
43,550 |
₹3,640,000 |
Automotive Sales Consultant |
70,000 (base + commission) |
46,900 |
₹3,920,000 |
Automotive Diagnostic Technician |
78,000 |
52,260 |
₹4,368,000 |
Heavy Vehicle Mechanic |
82,000 |
54,940 |
₹4,592,000 |
Vehicle Inspector |
68,000 |
45,560 |
₹3,808,000 |
Automotive Test Driver |
65,000 |
43,550 |
₹3,640,000 |
Assembly Line Worker (Manufacturing) |
58,000 |
38,860 |
₹3,248,000 |
Auto Parts Sales Representative |
60,000 |
40,200 |
₹3,360,000 |
Car Rental Fleet Manager |
72,000 |
48,240 |
₹4,032,000 |
Logistics & Fleet Coordinator (Automotive) |
75,000 |
50,250 |
₹4,200,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
---|---|
1. Occupation in Demand |
Must match an occupation listed on Australia's Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or MLTSSL(e.g., Motor Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Automotive Electrician). |
2. Relevant Qualifications |
A formal qualification equivalent to AQF Certificate III/IV or a diploma in a relevant automotive field. Recognized through a skills assessment. |
3. Work Experience |
Typically 2–5 years of relevant work experience in the same occupation is required. |
4. Skills Assessment |
Must pass a skills assessment through a relevant authority such as TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) or VETASSESS. |
5. English Language Proficiency |
Must meet minimum English requirements (e.g., IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5 or equivalent in PTE/TOEFL). |
6. Visa Options |
Eligible for visas like: |
7. Job Offer/Sponsorship |
Some visas (e.g., 482, 186) require a job offer or employer sponsorship from an approved Australian employer. |
8. Health & Character Requirements |
Must undergo a medical examination and provide a police clearance certificate to meet health and character criteria. |
9. Licensing/Registration (if applicable) |
Certain roles may require state-specific licensing (e.g., for electricians or vehicle inspectors). Check with the relevant state authority. |
10. Age Limit (for skilled visas) |
Generally must be under 45 years of age at the time of visa application for skilled migration pathways. |
Job Profile |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
---|---|
1. Automotive Mechanic |
Diagnose, repair, and service petrol and diesel vehicles; conduct routine maintenance and inspections. |
2. Diesel Mechanic |
Specialize in repairing and maintaining heavy vehicles and diesel engines, including trucks and buses. |
3. Automotive Electrician |
Install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in vehicles including wiring, batteries, and lighting. |
4. Vehicle Body Repair Technician |
Repair vehicle bodywork damaged by accidents; includes panel beating, dent removal, and welding. |
5. Automotive Engineer |
Design, develop, and test vehicle systems; ensure compliance with safety and performance standards. |
6. Automotive Technician (EV/Hybrid) |
Maintain and repair electric and hybrid vehicles; diagnose faults in battery and powertrain systems. |
7. Automotive Painter |
Prepare and paint vehicle surfaces; match paint colors and apply finishes using spray equipment. |
8. Vehicle Detailer |
Clean and restore interior and exterior of vehicles; apply protective coatings and polish. |
9. Motor Vehicle Parts Interpreter |
Identify, source, and supply the correct parts and accessories for vehicle repairs or modifications. |
10. Workshop Manager |
Oversee workshop operations; manage staff, customer service, inventory, and compliance. |
11. Automotive Service Advisor |
Act as liaison between customer and technician; assess vehicle issues, provide cost estimates. |
12. Automotive Sales Consultant |
Assist customers with vehicle selection, sales negotiations, financing options, and post-sale service. |
13. Heavy Vehicle Mechanic |
Maintain and repair large commercial vehicles; inspect braking, steering, and engine systems. |
14. Automotive Diagnostic Technician |
Use diagnostic tools to identify complex vehicle issues; support other technicians with repairs. |
15. Vehicle Inspector |
Conduct inspections to ensure vehicles meet safety and regulatory standards; issue roadworthy certificates. |
16. Assembly Line Worker |
Assemble parts and components in manufacturing plants; follow strict safety and quality procedures. |
17. Auto Parts Sales Representative |
Sell automotive parts and accessories to retail or commercial customers; provide technical guidance. |
18. Car Rental Fleet Manager |
Manage and maintain a fleet of rental vehicles; coordinate logistics, servicing, and customer support. |
19. Logistics & Fleet Coordinator |
Oversee the transportation and deployment of automotive fleets; ensure timely delivery and maintenance. |
20. Automotive Trainer/Assessor |
Train and assess apprentices or new employees; deliver technical instruction based on industry standards. |
Job Profile |
Required Qualification |
Experience |
Skills Assessment Authority |
Visa Options |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. Automotive Mechanic |
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical |
2–5 years |
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) |
Subclass 482, 186, 189, 190 |
2. Diesel Mechanic |
Certificate III in Diesel/Heavy Vehicle Tech |
3–5 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189, 190 |
3. Automotive Electrician |
Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Tech |
2–4 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189, 190 |
4. Vehicle Body Repair Technician |
Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair |
2–4 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189, 190 |
5. Automotive Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Automotive/Mechanical Engg. |
3+ years |
Engineers Australia |
Subclass 186, 189, 190 |
6. EV/Hybrid Technician |
Certificate III + EV specialisation |
2–3 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189 |
7. Automotive Painter |
Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing |
2–4 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189 |
8. Vehicle Detailer |
On-the-job training or Cert II in Auto Detailing |
1–2 years |
Not Required (low-skill) |
Subclass 482 (short-term) |
9. Motor Vehicle Parts Interpreter |
Cert III in Automotive Sales/Parts |
2–3 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186 |
10. Workshop Manager |
Diploma in Automotive Management |
3–5 years (incl. trade) |
VETASSESS or TRA |
Subclass 482, 186 |
11. Automotive Service Advisor |
Certificate III/IV in Automotive Admin/Sales |
2–3 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482 |
12. Automotive Sales Consultant |
On-the-job or Cert III in Automotive Sales |
2+ years |
Not Required (for most roles) |
Subclass 482 (employer-sponsored) |
13. Heavy Vehicle Mechanic |
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mech |
3–5 years |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186, 189, 190 |
14. Diagnostic Technician |
Certificate IV in Automotive Diagnostics |
3–5 years (post-Cert III) |
TRA |
Subclass 482, 186 |
15. Vehicle Inspector |
Cert III + State Certification (e.g., VIC Roads) |
2+ years |
TRA + State Licensing |
Subclass 482 |
16. Assembly Line Worker |
High School or Cert II in Manufacturing |
1–2 years |
Not Required |
Subclass 482 (short-term) |
17. Auto Parts Sales Rep |
Cert III in Parts Interpreting or Sales |
2–3 years |
TRA (if skilled level) |
Subclass 482 |
18. Car Rental Fleet Manager |
Diploma in Logistics/Fleet Mgmt |
3–5 years |
VETASSESS |
Subclass 482, 186 |
19. Logistics & Fleet Coordinator |
Cert IV or Diploma in Logistics |
2–4 years |
VETASSESS |
Subclass 482, 186 |
20. Automotive Trainer/Assessor |
Cert IV in Training & Assessment + trade cert |
5+ years (industry exp) |
VETASSESS or TRA |
Subclass 186, 190 |
Job Profile |
Minimum Experience Required |
Notes |
---|---|---|
Automotive Mechanic |
2–5 years |
Post-training experience; required for skills assessment by TRA. |
Diesel Mechanic |
3–5 years |
Hands-on experience with heavy vehicles is essential. |
Automotive Electrician |
2–4 years |
Experience in diagnosing and repairing vehicle electrical systems. |
Vehicle Body Repair Technician |
2–4 years |
Includes experience in panel beating and spray painting. |
Automotive Engineer |
3+ years (post-degree) |
Engineering experience with vehicle systems and testing. |
EV/Hybrid Vehicle Technician |
2–3 years (including EV-specific) |
Must have worked on electric/hybrid vehicle systems. |
Automotive Painter |
2–4 years |
Spray painting and refinishing work in workshops or body shops. |
Vehicle Detailer |
1–2 years |
On-the-job training often sufficient; no formal trade qualification required. |
Motor Vehicle Parts Interpreter |
2–3 years |
Sales and inventory experience required in automotive parts sector. |
Workshop Manager |
3–5 years (incl. trade background) |
Supervisory or management experience in an automotive environment. |
Automotive Service Advisor |
2–3 years |
Customer service plus technical understanding of vehicle services. |
Automotive Sales Consultant |
2+ years |
Experience in retail automotive sales is preferred. |
Heavy Vehicle Mechanic |
3–5 years |
Extensive experience with trucks, buses, or industrial equipment. |
Diagnostic Technician |
3–5 years |
High-level diagnostic experience after initial mechanic training. |
Vehicle Inspector |
2+ years |
Experience in inspection, plus licensing requirements by state authority. |
Assembly Line Worker |
1–2 years |
Factory or automotive production line experience helpful. |
Auto Parts Sales Representative |
2–3 years |
Requires a background in automotive parts sales or customer service. |
Car Rental Fleet Manager |
3–5 years |
Experience managing vehicles, logistics, and customer service. |
Logistics & Fleet Coordinator |
2–4 years |
Coordination experience in automotive logistics or transport. |
Automotive Trainer/Assessor |
5+ years (industry) |
Practical experience + Cert IV in Training & Assessment is mandatory. |
Company Name |
Specialization |
Notes on Hiring Internationally |
---|---|---|
Toyota Australia |
Manufacturing, R&D, fleet services |
Offers engineering, technician, and manufacturing roles; supports skilled visas. |
Penske Australia |
Diesel engines, trucks, power systems |
Regularly recruits diesel mechanics and heavy vehicle technicians. |
Volvo Group Australia |
Trucks, buses, construction equipment |
Known for hiring international diesel mechanics and engineers. |
Sime Darby Motors |
Multi-brand automotive dealerships (BMW, MINI, etc.) |
Recruits mechanics, sales, service advisors across Australia. |
Lindsay Australia |
Transport and logistics fleet |
Hires fleet managers, diesel mechanics, and logistics staff. |
WesTrac (Caterpillar Dealer) |
Heavy machinery, mining vehicles |
Sponsors skilled technicians for heavy vehicle and equipment roles. |
AutoNexus (Inchcape Group) |
Vehicle logistics, fleet services, parts distribution |
Hires automotive technicians, logistics managers, and warehouse workers. |
Peter Warren Automotive Group |
Multi-brand dealership group (NSW, QLD) |
Frequently hires international candidates for sales and technical roles. |
JCB Construction Equipment |
Agricultural and construction machinery |
Offers roles for mechanics and service technicians with sponsorship potential. |
Eagers Automotive |
Australia's largest dealership network (Ford, Toyota, Mazda) |
Recruits international technicians, electricians, and service advisors. |
Truck Centre WA |
Volvo and Mack truck dealership |
Regularly hires qualified heavy vehicle mechanics from overseas. |
AHG (Now Part of Eagers) |
Vehicle sales and service operations |
Has a history of sponsoring international mechanics and technicians. |
Komatsu Australia |
Mining and construction vehicles |
Offers roles for heavy equipment technicians and diesel fitters. |
Scania Australia |
Commercial vehicles and services |
Recruits international diesel and heavy vehicle mechanics. |
Isuzu Australia Limited |
Commercial vehicles |
Hires across technical, logistics, and support roles. |
Job Profile |
Average Salary (AUD/year) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|
Automotive Mechanic |
75,000 |
Cert III in Light Vehicle Mech, 2–5 yrs exp, TRA skill assessment |
Toyota, Eagers Automotive, Peter Warren Group |
Diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and light vehicles |
Diesel Mechanic |
80,000 |
Cert III in Heavy Vehicle Mech, 3–5 yrs exp, TRA |
Penske, Volvo Group, Scania, WesTrac |
Service and repair diesel engines in heavy vehicles, trucks, and machinery |
Automotive Electrician |
78,000 |
Cert III in Auto Electrical Tech, 2–4 yrs exp, TRA |
Komatsu, Isuzu, AutoNexus |
Install and repair vehicle electrical systems, including wiring and ECUs |
Vehicle Body Repair Technician |
70,000 |
Cert III in Body Repair, 2–4 yrs exp, TRA |
Sime Darby, Eagers, Peter Warren |
Repair and restore damaged vehicle panels, frames, and exteriors |
Automotive Engineer |
95,000 |
Bachelor's in Automotive/Mechanical Eng, 3+ yrs, Engineers Australia |
Toyota, Volvo, JCB, Komatsu |
Design, test, and develop automotive systems and components |
EV/Hybrid Technician |
85,000 |
Cert III + EV Specialization, 2–3 yrs exp, TRA |
Toyota, Scania, Volvo, Isuzu |
Service and troubleshoot electric and hybrid vehicles |
Automotive Painter |
68,000 |
Cert III in Automotive Refinishing, 2–4 yrs exp, TRA |
Sime Darby, Peter Warren, AHG |
Prepare surfaces and apply paint and protective coatings to vehicles |
Vehicle Detailer |
50,000 |
On-the-job training or Cert II, 1–2 yrs exp |
Car rental agencies, dealerships |
Clean, polish, and restore vehicles to showroom condition |
Parts Interpreter |
60,000 |
Cert III in Automotive Sales/Parts, 2–3 yrs exp, TRA |
AutoNexus, Eagers, Truck Centre WA |
Identify and supply correct parts for vehicle repair or sales |
Workshop Manager |
100,000 |
Diploma in Auto Mgmt + trade cert, 3–5 yrs exp, VETASSESS |
Peter Warren, Eagers, Komatsu |
Oversee workshop staff, operations, inventory, and customer relations |
Service Advisor |
65,000 |
Cert III/IV in Automotive Admin, 2–3 yrs exp |
Toyota, Scania, Sime Darby |
Manage service bookings, communicate repairs to customers, estimate costs |
Sales Consultant |
70,000 (base + commission) |
Cert III or sales experience, 2+ yrs exp |
Eagers, Toyota, Isuzu |
Assist customers in selecting and purchasing vehicles |
Heavy Vehicle Mechanic |
82,000 |
Cert III in Heavy Commercial Mech, 3–5 yrs exp, TRA |
WesTrac, Volvo, Scania |
Service and maintain large trucks, buses, and industrial machinery |
Diagnostic Technician |
78,000 |
Cert IV in Diagnostics, 3–5 yrs exp after Cert III, TRA |
Toyota, Penske, Volvo |
Diagnose complex vehicle faults using advanced tools and systems |
Vehicle Inspector |
68,000 |
Cert III + licensing (varies by state), 2+ yrs exp |
Government, RACV, inspection services |
Perform safety and compliance inspections, issue roadworthy certificates |
Assembly Line Worker |
58,000 |
High school or Cert II, 1–2 yrs exp preferred |
Toyota, Komatsu, OEMs |
Assemble vehicle components in manufacturing environments |
Parts Sales Representative |
60,000 |
Cert III in Sales/Automotive Parts, 2–3 yrs exp |
AutoNexus, Isuzu, Eagers |
Sell automotive parts to retail or commercial clients |
Fleet Manager (Car Rental) |
72,000 |
Diploma in Fleet Management, 3–5 yrs exp |
Hertz, AutoNexus, Europcar |
Oversee car rental fleets, servicing schedules, and usage logistics |
Fleet Coordinator (Logistics) |
75,000 |
Cert IV/Diploma in Logistics or Fleet Ops, 2–4 yrs exp |
Lindsay Australia, Toll, Toyota Logistics |
Coordinate deployment, maintenance, and tracking of commercial vehicle fleets |
Trainer/Assessor (Automotive) |
85,000 |
Cert IV in Training + trade qual, 5+ yrs industry exp |
TAFE, private RTOs, manufacturers |
Train and assess apprentices or new hires in technical automotive skills |
Visa Type |
Subclass |
Description |
Suitable For |
Key Requirements |
---|---|---|---|---|
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa |
Subclass 482 |
Employer-sponsored; allows skilled workers to work in Australia for 2–4 years. |
Mechanics, Electricians, Technicians, Painters |
Job offer from an approved sponsor, skills assessment, English test, occupation must be on STSOL/MLTSSL. |
Employer Nomination Scheme |
Subclass 186 |
Permanent residency visa via employer nomination. |
Highly skilled workers with experience |
Full-time job offer, skills assessment, minimum 3 years of relevant work experience, English test. |
Skilled Independent Visa |
Subclass 189 |
Permanent residency based on points; no sponsorship needed. |
Tradespeople and engineers with high points |
Occupation on MLTSSL, positive skills assessment, pass points test (65+), English proficiency. |
Skilled Nominated Visa |
Subclass 190 |
Permanent residency via state/territory nomination. |
Automotive professionals in regional demand |
State nomination, occupation on STSOL/MLTSSL, skills assessment, English test, points test. |
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) |
Subclass 491 |
Temporary 5-year visa for regional work; leads to permanent residency. |
Candidates willing to work in regional areas |
State nomination or relative sponsorship, occupation on list, skills assessment, points test. |
Training Visa |
Subclass 407 |
Temporary visa for workplace-based training programs (up to 2 years). |
Interns, trainees, recent graduates in automotive |
Sponsorship by an approved organization, training plan, English skills, relevant background. |
Graduate Temporary Visa |
Subclass 485 |
Temporary visa for international graduates of Australian institutions. |
Automotive students who studied in Australia |
Must have completed eligible course, skills assessment, work rights for 18–24 months. |