Kenway and Clark is looking to support a dozen locals as they embark on new apprenticeships in 2022 across Gunnedah, Tamworth, Moree, Wee Waa, Inverell and Goondiwindi.
The successful applicants will undertake a four-year apprenticeship in the diesel mechanic program, with a commitment to both on-the-job and formal training, emerging with a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology.
The industry-leading, locally-owned agricultural machinery and truck company is seeking fresh faces with an enthusiastic attitude for the work.
Kenway and Clark is looking to hire self-motivated individuals with the ability to show initiative, think ahead and communicate confidently.
The business hopes to hire workers with a genuine interest in the trade, unafraid to work overtime when needed, with the ability to follow instructions and present themselves well.
Successful applicants will work on a wide range of heavy vehicles, including Case IH, Case Constructions, Isuzu trucks and road transport vehicles.
Kenway and Clark’s HR manager, Naomi Burger, says an interest in such brands, as well as the automotive, truck and diesel industry will help strengthen your application.
“That shows us that you’re keen to work in this area,” she said.
“A lot of our apprentices have grown up on the land or experienced life on a small farm, operating agriculture machinery or assisting with truck repairs, which will be looked upon favourably.
“But that’s not to say you shouldn’t apply if you don’t have this experience, we encourage all interested locals and can provide all the opportunities you need to find success in this industry.”
Once the new apprentices join the Kenway and Clark team, Ms Burger says there’s opportunities to work on a range of vehicles, broadly speaking either agricultural machinery or road transport.
“It is through this experience that an apprentice generally learns that they prefer either truck repairs or agricultural machinery, and we look to support those interests.
“There are certainly opportunities to pursue the specialisations you’re passionate about.”
Ms Burger says eager apprentices will be rewarded for their hard work and keen attitude.
“We’re looking for great new team members who can support the reputation our business has built and continue to uphold the good name of Kenway and Clark,” she said.
“Our competitive difference is a solid after-sales service, so we’re looking for workers who will go that extra mile for the customer.
“But it’s a two-way street, so we like to reward our apprentices with a monetary bonus for each year they complete as a way to show their efforts are appreciated.
“In addition, there’s always opportunities for overtime in our busier times for those apprentices who are keen to step up.”
Ms Burger says interested applicants can have peace-of-mind in knowing their learning will be well-supported by the business’s qualified technicians and dedicated parts interpreters.
“Our senior mechanics have many years of industry experience, so they hold a wealth of knowledge that these new apprentices can learn from,” she said.
“So, not only will these new apprentices receive all the training needed for their formal qualification, but you’ll also feel that sense of satisfaction in a job well done that’s backed up by in-depth understanding.”
This commitment to a comprehensive learning experience gives locals the opportunity to put their best foot forward in a really important industry, according to Ms Burger.
“We’re proud to be family-owned and community-focused, so we take a very personal approach to training new workers,” she said.
“We want to support your learning, from start to finish, so that our local area can reap the rewards of more skilled diesel mechanics.
“That way, we can ensure farmers and freight drivers in the area can continue doing what they do best, especially around harvest time when everyone is super busy.”
This is especially true as the nation continues to battle the ongoing pandemic, as the business is classified as essential and has continued operating through the current COVID-19 restrictions.
The Kenway and Clark team are taking applications now, for a January 2022 start.
A current driver’s licence is essential, as travel to jobs on-farm will be necessary.
Uniforms will be supplied for successful hires, with pay distributed weekly.
This opportunity will close on Friday, September 17, to ensure managers can shortlist and interview applicants before harvest.
Submit an online application via the website, or email [email protected] with a cover letter and resume, to show your interest in this position.
Ms Burger can be contacted, should anyone have any questions about this opportunity, on (02) 6750 8300.
Kenway and Clark’s 2018 first-year apprentices – Jacob Latham, Lincoln Lyon and Rob Hann – who will complete their apprenticeship at the end of this year to become fully qualified diesel mechanics. Each of them moved between two and four hours from their families to take up their apprenticeships and have made the most of the opportunity.
