Light Fabrication Apprenticeship (Palmerston North)

ATNZ; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 41,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on training

Earn while you learn

Qualification costs paid

Safety gear provided

Tool allowance

Interest-free tool loans

Job summary

ATNZ is seeking motivated individuals to start a career in Light Fabrication as an apprentice in Palmerston North, Papaioea. You will work full-time while completing a 3–4 year qualification, earning from day one and gaining hands-on fabrication experience with stainless steel and aluminium.

ATNZ provides safety gear, covers qualification costs, offers a tool allowance and interest-free tool loans, and mentors you with qualified tradespeople. No prior qualifications required beyond attitude.

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required beyond a great attitude and work ethic.
• Willingness to commit to 3–4 years of study while employed full-time.

Responsibilities

• Assist with light fabrication using stainless steel and aluminium.
• Gain hands-on experience in a specialist metal fabrication workshop.

Job description

Forge your future – Get qualified and earn while you learn

• Passionate about working with light steel?

• Want to gain evergreen engineering skills for the automotive / manufacturing industries and more?

NZ is crying out for a skilled workforce, and ATNZ is here to answer the call. We’re seeking future engineers who want to start a career in Light Fabrication. We’re looking for motivated individuals to join our host company based in Palmerston North, Papaioea.

Why work with ATNZ?

• Hands on training and support from qualified trades people and experienced mentors.

• You start earning straight away.

• We will cover the qualification cost.

• Safety gear provided.

• Tool allowance on top of your pay – and keep it.

And so much more...

What Does a Light Fabrication Apprentice do?

Light fabrication engineers work with lighter materials like stainless steel and aluminium. This trade is common in the marine, architectural, and manufacturing sectors.

About this Host Company:

Our host company is a specialist metal fabrication business with a well-established reputation for producing high-quality, affordable manufacturing and fabrication work. Operating from a fully equipped workshop with modern machinery, the team combines innovative thinking with practical trade skills to deliver custom-designed solutions for a diverse client base. Their work spans stainless steel fabrication (including hoppers, tanks, bins, conveyor systems and structural fittings), building and construction projects, commercial vehicle fit-outs, custom ute decks and service bodies, trailers, tow bars, and specialist coach and motorhome fit-outs. With a "no job too big or too small" approach, apprentices gain exposure to a wide variety of projects and techniques, working alongside experienced tradespeople who take pride in the quality of their craftsmanship and value for money.

Do you fit the profile?

• Are you committed to 3-4 years of study whilst working full time?

• Are you interested in fabrication or working with metals?

• Do you have a restricted or full drivers licence?

• Have you completed a relevant pre-trade course or worked with metals before?

FAQ’s:

How long does an apprenticeship take to complete? 3 – 4 years. This may be shorter if you have completed a level 3 pre-trade qualification.

How much do apprenticeships pay? It varies between host companies. But the average annual salary for most of our apprentices is $41’000-$52’000. You may receive a higher or lower amount than this bracket depending on your skill level and the financial ability of the host company.

Is there an upper age limit for apprenticeships? None. Anyone aged 16 or over with the right to permanently live and work in New Zealand is allowed to undertake an apprenticeship.

Do I need my own tools? Some companies provide tools, while others require you to have your own. It is always good to build your own supply for the future. One of the benefits of being employed directly by ATNZ is that we offer our apprentices interest‑free loans for tools.

What qualifications do I need to get an ATNZ apprenticeship? No qualifications are necessary. We are looking for people with a great attitude and a good work ethic who want to be hands‑on and earn something they are passionate about.

Are there any fees for being an ATNZ apprentice? Whether you are employed by ATNZ or do your apprenticeship through your current employer, apprentices pay no fees.

What happens if my host company does not have enough work for me? Another advantage of being employed directly by ATNZ is that if your host company can't continue employing you for whatever reason, we will do our best to place you with another host company.