Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing Technician

Drive your appreciation for adventure into helping others get on the road and navigate it safely.

As a recreational vehicle (RV) technician, you will blend technical expertise with creativity to build and maintain mobile homes that fuel adventure. Your skills will be instrumental in crafting high-quality RVs, ensuring that each vehicle meets rigorous safety standards while providing comfort and reliability for outdoor enthusiasts.

As an RV Technician in manufacturing, you’ll be at the forefront of creating various recreational vehicles, including motor homes, caravans, camper trailers, slide-ons, and fifth wheelers. Your role will encompass a wide range of responsibilities, from assembly and installation to quality control and compliance with Australian standards. You’ll work with diverse systems including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and air-conditioning, ensuring each component is perfectly integrated for optimal performance and safety.

In this dynamic position, you’ll be involved in every stage of the RV manufacturing process. From the initial assembly of the vehicle’s structure to the installation of complex systems like suspension, electrical components, and plumbing, your expertise will be crucial. You’ll also be responsible for fitting specialised equipment such as solar panels, generators, and refrigeration units, tailoring each vehicle to meet specific customer requirements and industry standards. As technology in the RV industry evolves, you’ll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge materials and systems, constantly expanding your skill set and staying at the forefront of RV innovation.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Construct and assemble various types of recreational vehicles from the ground up
  2. Install and integrate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems in RVs
  3. Conduct thorough inspections to ensure all vehicles meet safety standards and manufacturer specifications
  4. Build, modify and customise RVs based on specific client requirements and industry trends
  5. Ensure all manufactured vehicles comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR) and roadworthiness standards

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory to start in this field, many employers prefer candidates with relevant training or experience. Employers are often looking for job seekers to take on formal apprenticeships. Here are steps you can take to become an RV Manufacturing Technician:

  1. Look for opportunities promoted by RV manufacturers after trade qualified workers or apprentices
  2. Even if there are no jobs advertised but you have an interest in working with the employer, send through a letter and your resume expressing your interest to work for them or to complete a Certificate III in Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing or a similar qualification in manufacturing or engineering
  3. Develop skills in specific areas like cabinetmaking, upholstery, or automotive electronics
  4. Stay updated with the latest RV technologies and manufacturing techniques
Also Known As:
  • RV Production Specialist
  • Motorhome Assembly Technician
  • Caravan Manufacturing Expert
  • RV Fabrication Technician
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a recreational vehicle manufacturing technician include:

  • Blueprint interpretation
  • Precision
  • Problem solving
  • Safety awareness
  • Technical knowledge
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a recreational vehicle manufacturing technician include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptable
  • Team Player
  • Customer-focus
  • Continuous learning
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Design
  • Engineering
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Engineering Skills
  • Essential English

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing Technician can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$50,000
Median
$65,000
High
$75,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment as a composite tradesperson. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships:

  • Certificate III in Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing (MSM31122)

As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last up to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and Study Combination: As an apprentice, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

Skills, qualifications, accreditations and licences

You may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

For career advancement or specialisation:

  • Certificate IV in Recreational Vehicles (MSM41122)

While a university degree is not typically required for RV Manufacturing Technicians, higher education can open doors to management roles or specialised positions within the industry. Relevant degree programs might include:

  • Bachelor of Engineering (majoring in Manufacturing or other area of specialisation)
  • Bachelor of Applied Technology (Automotive Manufacturing)

These programs provide comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials science, and production management. Skills gained through these degrees can be valuable for those aiming for roles in production planning, quality assurance management, or research and development within the RV manufacturing industry. The analytical and project management skills developed in these programs can also be beneficial for those looking to advance to leadership positions or start their own RV manufacturing business.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

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