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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Automotive Components: Manufacturing and Assembly 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
71950  National Certificate: Automotive Components: Manufacturing and Assembly 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
MERSETA - Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  123  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
21004  National Certificate: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly  Level 2  NQF Level 02  134  Complete 

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
102580  Occupational Certificate: Production Process Machine Operator and Assembler  Not Applicable  NQF Level 03  103  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This Qualification is for any individual who is, or wishes to be, involved in an automotive components environment. The Qualification contains all the skills, knowledge, values and attitudes required by a learner who needs to be able to perform a range of activities within a specific automotive components environment to support the manufacture and assembly of automotive components. An individual acquiring this Qualification will be able to contribute towards the efficient operation of the manufacturing and assembling processes in the automotive components sector.

The main competencies in this qualification are operating and monitoring production machines, assembling or manufacturing components, reading and interpreting engineering drawings and performing handling and finishing operations, all within the ambit of health and safety legislation. Qualifying learners will be employed as Assemblers or Operators.

The Core component contains competencies covering, inter alia:
  • Health, safety and environment legislation and procedures.
  • The operation and monitoring of machines.
  • Assembly and manufacture of components.
  • Completion of finishing operations and dispatching of product.
  • Use and care of tools and equipment.
  • Reading and interpreting basic engineering drawings.
  • Preparation of surfaces.

    These competencies will enable the learner to work in different industries within the diverse automotive components sector.

    Rationale

    This is an entry level Qualification in a series of four automotive components qualifications that range from NQF Levels 2 to 5. Typical learners will be persons who are currently working in an automotive components environment who have not received any formal recognition for their skills and knowledge or for anyone wishing to follow a career in an automotive components working environment, in a variety of contexts.

    The learner will operate within either an automotive manufacturing or assembly environment. They will be able to operate machines, assemble or manufacture components, perform finishing operations, read and interpret engineering drawings and address issues of health and safety. Assembly involves either working on the assembly line at a motor assembly plant or in any environment in which already manufactured or finished components and products are assembled in a production line or process. Manufacturing occurs in an environment in which products, which will be used in an assembly environment, are made or manufactured using raw materials. The learner will also appreciate their role within the broader manufacturing/assembly environments in the automotive components sector.

    The automotive components sector falls within the ambit of South Africa's large motor industry. There are huge motor assembly plants in several parts of the country, primarily in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng and Kwazulu Natal provinces. It's a sector that employs a large number of people. The automotive components sector covers two broad areas, namely, manufacturing and assembly. It is also a sector that comprises of a range of diverse but related industries and is characterised by sophisticated technological processes. Companies and/or industries within this sector operate in a global competitive and challenging environment. The products produced have to respond to a wide variety of customer requirements and safety, health, environmental, quality and risk management issues.

    In terms of the learning pathway, this Qualification will allow this learner to progress from operating machines and assembling/manufacturing components at NQF Level 2 to adjusting machines performing first line maintenance by completing the National Certificate: Automotive Components at NQF Level 3 to setting-up production machines and changing and setting tooling by acquiring the Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Components at NQF Level 4 and to working in a coordinating and management capacity within an automotive components environment by completing the National Certificate: Automotive Components at NQF Level 5.

    The highly developed automotive components sector is well-established and economically powerful. In terms of transformation in the country, learners will require skills and competencies to gain access to positions within management structures by completing other qualifications and training. It will be in the interest of the country and the sector to ensure that those who operate in the automotive components environment are trained according to this Qualification to improve productivity and efficiency.

    This National Qualification and its related Unit Standards were developed to standardise the accreditation of learning programmes, resulting in improved quality management in terms of programme delivery. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners wishing to study towards this Qualification are assumed to be competent in:
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1.
  • Communication at NQF Level 1.
  • Engineering Science at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This Qualification may be achieved in part (or whole) through the recognition of relevant prior knowledge and/or experience. The learner must be able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. As part of the provision of recognition of prior learning providers are required to develop a structured means for the assessment of individual learners against the Unit Standards of the Qualification on a case-by-case basis. A range of assessment tools and techniques during formative and summative assessment procedures should be used which have been jointly decided upon by the learner and the assessor. Such procedures, and the assessment of individual cases, are subject to moderation by independent assessors. The same principles that apply to assessment of this Qualification also apply to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

    Learners may provide evidence of prior learning for which they may receive credit towards the Unit Standards and/or the Qualification by means of portfolios or other forms of appropriate evidence as agreed to between the relevant provider and relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.

    Recognition of Prior Learning is particularly important, as there are people in the automotive components sector with a variety of skills and competencies of differing quality and scope. It is important that an Recognition for Prior Learning process be available to assist in making sense of existing competencies and skills, and helping to standardise these competencies and skills towards a common standard.

    Access to the Qualification:

    There is an open access to this Qualification, keeping in mind the "Learning Assumed to be in Place". 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 123 credits as detailed below.

    Fundamental Component:

    The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards in:
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2 to the value of 16 credits.
  • Communication at NQF Level 2 to the value of 20 credits.

    All Unit Standards in the Fundamental Component are compulsory.

    Core Component:

    The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 65 credits, all of which are compulsory.

    Elective Component:

    The Elective Component consists of Unit Standards that will impart a variety of competencies to the learner. Learners are to choose Elective Unit Standards totalling a minimum of 22 credits to attain a minimum of 123 credits for this Qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Operate and monitor machines in the automotive component or related environment.
  • Outcome Range:
    > The automotive component environment includes both the manufacturing and assembly sectors. The sector has been specified, where applicable.

    2. Assemble or manufacture components and perform finishing operations.

    3. Demonstrate an understanding of Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental standards in the workplace.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • Engaging with problems related to assembly/manufacturing, surface preparation-related problems, post-production processes and finishing operations.
  • Making minor adjustments to the assembly/manufacturing process.
  • Recognising defective materials, products or components and managing them.
  • Interpreting an engineering drawing.
  • Differentiating between various concepts related to engineering drawings engaging with problems relating to marking off.
  • Controlling of compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace.
  • Responding to a type of emergency.
  • Determining unsafe/unserviceable tools and the corrective action to be taken.

    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community to:
  • Assemble/manufacture components/products.
  • Recognise defects and mark and remove the defective product.
  • Ensure the efficient assembly/manufacturing of components.
  • Perform post-production processes and finishing operations.
  • Dispose of scrap materials and store surplus materials.
  • Ensure that the quality of the work meets customer/client's satisfaction.
  • Ensure safety of people and equipment and materials.
  • Ensure that the operations run efficiently and problems are dealt with appropriately.
  • Monitor, evaluate and remedy workplace safety, health and environmental practices in the workplace.

    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsively and effectively when:
  • Interpreting manufacturing/assembly schedules.
  • Checking consumables, machine and tools.
  • Engaging with assembly-related problems.
  • Making minor adjustments to the assembly process.
  • Recognising defective materials, products or components and managing them.
  • Assembling/manufacturing components/products.
  • Performing finishing operations.
  • Interpreting an engineering drawing.
  • Preparing for and performing surface preparation.
  • Maintaining safety.
  • Monitoring material flow and consumption of consumables and making adjustments.
  • Dispatching products/components to customer or downline processes.
  • Ensuring that all safety, health and environmental activities are in accordance with specific requirements.
  • Responding to emergencies in the workplace.

    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information to:
  • Solve problems by making adjustments to machine before and during operation.
  • Interpret information contained in engineering drawings.
  • Assess the match between a drawing and a product/system/component/item.
  • Solve assembly/manufacturing-related problems.
  • Identify defective materials, products or components.
  • Interpret information from production schedule to mark off materials.
  • Ensure an efficient manufacturing/assembly process.
  • Solve problems related to surface preparation, post production process operations.
  • Control compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace.
  • Evaluate information which may be passed on to mutual aiders in the case of an emergency.

    Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation to:
  • Discuss job instructions/schedules.
  • Record and report all relevant information pertaining to the assembly process.
  • Clarify job instructions.
  • Perform surface preparation activities as per standard operating procedure.
  • Communicate effectively when recording and reporting deviations from specified requirements.
  • Provide feedback on the progress and results of the safety, health and environmental management programmes.

    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others by:
  • Using the equipment according to manufacturer's instructions.
  • Adjust processes and procedures to suit different materials.

    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation to:
  • Understand the impact of their or others' actions on health, safety, environment and productivity.
  • Engage with deviations and changes during the manufacturing/assembly processes.
  • Control the requirements for safety, health and environmental issues can have a negative impact on people, the organisation and the environment. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 Machines are prepared and operated according to standard operating procedures.
    1.2 Machines are used in a manner that ensures the safety of all personnel in the automotive component or related environment.
    1.3 Machines are monitored for deviations and minor adjustments are made to ensure efficient operation.
    1.4 Consumables and materials required are checked according to quality assurance requirements.
    1.5 Surfaces are prepared on material to be used in a manufacturing context.
    1.6 Activities relevant to the manufacturing/assembly process are performed according to standard operating procedures.
    1.7 Quality requirements are complied with according to standard operating procedures.
    1.8 Mathematical principles and techniques are applied while performing the tasks related to manufacturing/assembly activities.
    1.9 Oral and written communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote interaction, recording and reporting as per company requirements in an automotive component context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1 Instructions and/or production schedules are interpreted and activities are planned to ensure correct sequence and efficiency.
    2.2 Materials and consumables are monitored and used according to manufacturing and assembly schedules.
    2.3 Products and components are assembled or manufactured according to job instructions and schedules.
    2.4 Quality checks are conducted on incoming and finished materials, components and assembled products to ensure customer satisfaction.
    2.5 Defective materials, products or components marked or removed from the production line are dealt with according to standard operating procedures.
    2.6 Engineering and hand tools are selected, inspected, used and maintained according to standard operating procedure and company policy.
    2.7 Finishing operations are performed according to standard operating procedures.
    2.8 Completed components are dispatched according to standard operating procedure.
    2.9 Mathematical calculations are utilised for the solution of common operational problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1 Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental principles are explained in accordance with workplace requirements.
    3.2 The impact of risks and hazards are explained and preventative measures are applied in order to minimise risks or hazards in manufacturing and assembly activities.
    3.3 Policies and procedures relevant to quality and risk management in the manufacturing or assembly environment are applied to eliminate or reduce danger and risk.
    3.4 Emergencies arising from manufacturing or assembly operations are dealt with according to standard operating procedure.

    Integrated Assessment:

    The importance of integrated assessment is to confirm that the learner is able to demonstrate applied competence (practical, foundational and reflexive) and ensure that the purpose of this Qualification is achieved. Both formative and summative assessment methods and strategies are used to ensure that the Exit Level Outcomes and the purpose of the Qualification are achieved through achieving the Unit Standards. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked.

    Learning and assessment should be integrated and assessment practices must be fair, transparent, valid and reliable. A variety of assessment strategies and approaches must be used. This could include tests, assignments, projects, demonstrations and/or any applicable method. Evidence of the acquisition of competencies must be demonstrated through the Unit Standards, which enhance the integration of theory and practice as deemed appropriate at this level.

    Formative assessment is an on-going process which is used to assess the efficacy of the teaching and learning process. It is used to plan appropriate learning experiences to meet the learner's needs. Formative assessments can include a mix of simulated and actual (real) practice or authentic settings. Feedback from assessment informs both teaching and learning. If the learner has met the assessment criteria of all the Unit Standards then s/he has achieved the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification.

    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification. Such judgement must include integrated assessment(s) which test the learners' ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes, which are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes. Summative assessment can take the form of oral, written and practical examinations as agreed to by the relevant ETQA.

    Integrated assessment must be designed to achieve the following:
  • An integration of the achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes in a way that reflects a comprehensive approach to learning and shows that the purpose of the Qualification has been achieved. Judgement of learner performance to provide evidence of applied competence or capability.
  • Assessors and moderators should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.
  • Assessment should ensure that all Specific Outcomes, Embedded Knowledge and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the critical cross-field outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and Embedded Knowledge. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The main competencies of this qualification are operating machinery, and assembling or manufacturing products for the automotive components industry.

    Various car manufacturers like Daimler-Chrysler, Mazda, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Nissan, BMW, Nissan, VW and Ford, inter alia, were analysed to see what type of training takes place for those in assembly and in manufacturing. Little or no information could be found because most of the training for assembly lines takes place in-house, and the content of the training is not made readily available.

    Car manufacturing countries like Japan, Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany were also checked and information was obtained from the following countries:
  • Japan.
  • Germany.
  • Canada.
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.
  • United States.
  • United Kingdom.

    Japan:

    The Toyota Tsusho Centre of Excellence (COE) is a Global Development Solution that offers a variety of courses in automotive assembly to prospective institutions. The courses pertinent to this Qualification include:
  • Fitting.
  • Fitting and Turning.
  • Electrical.
  • Safety, Health and Environmental Induction.
  • Quality checking and Finishing of manufactured tyres.
  • Quality checking of tyres and tyre components.
  • Business Writing Skills.
  • Time Management.

    However, there are no details regarding the course contents and duration.

    Germany:

    The Daimler Automotive Academy Network is a global association of training centers that make available the core expertise in automobile production, thus making a valuable contribution to assisting local youth and providing support to underdeveloped regions.

    The idea for the network originated in 1999, and the first training center was opened in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Today, the network has accredited centers in Kabul (Afghanistan), Perm (Russia), and Kuwait, as well as more recently established centers in Hoedspruit (South Africa) and Beit Sahour (Palestine), both of which opened in 2007. The training centers offer courses in automotive repair, mechatronics, electronic systems, management, and marketing, some of which are combined with theoretical and practical internships in Stuttgart. Curricula are tailored to the conditions of each country, and the program's conceptual design focuses on ensuring that academy graduates are able to go to work immediately.

    Canada:

    A training organisation in Canada called Automated Learning offers training in electronic assembly within the automotive industry.

    Participants successfully completing this course will be able to:
  • Describe the overall circuit card assembly process.
  • Identify the role of the operator in maintaining quality.
  • Explain the function and use of process documents.
  • Explain the differences between surface mount, through hole, and mixed technology assembly.
  • Explain the key steps of surface mount assembly (SMA) including: paste print, component placement, re-flow, glue dispense and cure, inspection and rework. Explain the key steps of through hole assembly (THA) including; auto and hand component insertion, wave and hand soldering and inspection.
  • Describe the main types of circuit card testing.
  • Describe key processes supporting assembly including:
    > Component preparation and kitting for SMA.
    > Component preparation and kitting for THA.
    > Programmable device preparation.
    > Point of use inventory management.

    New Zealand:

    Regarding assembly the following Unit Standard from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is applicable:

    Title: Heat metal automotive components to aid disassembly and assembly in the motor and related industries, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.

    This Unit Standard is for people in the motor and related industries. People credited with this unit standard are able to prepare to heat metal automotive components, and carry out the heating operation on metal automotive components to aid disassembly and assembly. In this unit standard metal automotive components include any metal mating components that have an interference fit. These include but are not limited to bearings, shafts, bushes, and casings.

    Australia:

    The Adelaide Training and Employment Centre (ATEC) offers training for a variety of machine operators. These are Engineering Production-Training options.

    Production employees may set up and operate the following, which are applicable to this qualification:
  • Stationary and mobile plants.
  • Engines, boilers and like equipment.
  • Foundry processes and automatic moulding equipment.
  • Plastics extrusion, injection moulding, blow moulding and like equipment.
  • Metal product machines.
  • Packaging machines.
  • Production welding processes.
  • Electrical/electronic manufacturing.
  • CNC machine processes.
  • Other automotive, semi-automotive and single purpose machines e.g. coil winding machines, production lathes, multi spindle machines etc.
  • Minor servicing and repair, and/or assembly of mechanical, fabrication and electrical equipment.

    Entry to this field is mainly through a production apprenticeship; however other options are also available. This involves a Training Agreement between an employer and apprentice for at least 12 months. This gives both parties the chance to complete their chosen competencies. The apprenticeship is completed once it has been assessed and the minimum time requirements have been completed. Production apprenticeships are offered at three industry levels from Certificate I to III in Production Engineering.

    Other institutions in Australia, SkillsTech Australia and Training Prospects TSA The Training Company Pty Ltd; Melbourne, Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC): Melbourne, Workplace Learning Initiatives Pty Ltd; Maribyrnong offer the Certificate II in Automotive Manufacturing. The Qualification corresponds significantly with this NQF Level 2 Qualification and forms part of the Automotive Manufacturing Training Package and provides general entry level training in the automotive manufacturing industry.

    Subjects:

    Monitor and maintain workplace environment; Receive and dispatch materials, equipment and tools; Prepare and process materials and components; Prepare and use/operate equipment, tools and/or machinery; Monitor and maintain continuous improvement of systems and processes; Monitor and maintain equipment, tools and machinery; Manage personal work priorities; Manage effective workplace relationships; Work effectively with others in a team. Manufacturing Stream: Body construction; Aluminium die casting; Foundry operations; Engine machining; Spray painting; Automotive plastics; Stamping and press operations; Fabrication hardware; Seat manufacture; Trim manufacture; Vehicle assembly; Warehousing; Engine assembly.

    The qualification also overlaps significantly with the Certificate II in Automotive Manufacturing-Bus, Truck and Trailer offered by the Kangan Batman Institute of TAFE.

    Subjects:

    Contribute to workplace relationships and processes; Provide customer service; Inspect Work and Apply Company Technical Quality Standards; Read and interpret working drawings and work orders; Monitor and maintain workplace environment; Prepare and use/operate equipment, tools and/or machinery; Participate in improving workplace productivity. Common: Prepare materials for fabrication using jigs/fixtures; Conduct basic welding, thermal cutting, heating and gouging operations; Conduct mechanical cutting operations; Fabricate parts for sub-assemblies; Finish surfaces for painting; Paint chassis or panels; Assemble components.

    United States:

    Assembly workers in the US are trained on-the-job and there is a paucity of information about that kind of training.

    The following information comes from the State of Michigan:

    The most common method of becoming an Assembly Line Worker is to apply directly to employers. Contact local unions and local offices of Michigan Works for assistance.

    Beginning Assembly Line Workers are usually trained on the job. Advancement opportunities are limited. A few Assemblers become inspectors or supervisors through experience, seniority, and/or additional training. Some Assemblers also advance to more skilled assembly jobs. Assembly Line Workers who take courses at technical or night schools may eventually advance to jobs as technicians or skilled trades workers.

    The automotive industry uses on-the-job training for most of its workers. You can learn a semiskilled assembly job or a simpler machine operating job with a few weeks of training. For these jobs, employers generally require that you are in good health and are able to learn to do mechanical work.

    To get a production or maintenance job requiring greater skill, you often need at least four years of job experience. Workers such as tool and die makers, pattern-makers, electricians, and maintenance mechanics learn their trade informally by serving as helpers to experienced workers, or they train in a formal apprenticeship program that takes three to four years to complete and combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Most apprenticeship programs require at least a high school degree.

    Technical workers such as drafters and engineering aides are graduates of two-year technical schools. Technicians are also trained on the job. Automotive stylists attend an art institute or get a bachelor's degree in industrial design to prepare for their career.

    Several colleges offer courses in automotive engineering. Many engineers and managers get this kind of specialized training. Others get a degree in mechanical or industrial engineering and are trained by the company. Some jobs require an advanced degree. Most auto companies help employees to qualify for better paying jobs by covering part or all of the cost of college courses related to the company's operations.

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics gives the following information regarding those working in the automotive production process at this level:

    These occupations account for about 64 percent of motor vehicle and parts manufacturing jobs. Assemblers and fabricators and metal workers and plastic workers put together various parts to form sub-assemblies, and then put the sub-assemblies together to build a complete motor vehicle. Most assemblers in this industry are team assemblers, who work in teams and perform a variety of tasks. Many manufacturing processes are highly automated; robots, computers, and programmable devices are an integral part of motor vehicle manufacturing.

    Although robots perform most of the welding, welding, soldering, and brazing workers perform welds that are not easily automated and fix mistakes that occur during the manufacturing process. Grinding and polishing workers use hand tools or hand-held power tools to sand and polish metal surfaces; painting workers paint surfaces of motor vehicles; and sewing machine operators sew together pieces of material to form seat covers and other parts.

    Opportunities for training and advancement vary considerably by occupation, plant size, and sector. Training programs in larger auto and light truck assembly plants usually are more extensive than those in smaller parts, truck trailer, and motor home factories. Production workers receive most of their training on the job or through more formal apprenticeship programs. Training normally takes from a few days to several months and may combine classroom with on-the-job training under the guidance of more experienced workers. Attaining the highest level of skill in some production jobs requires several years, however. Training often includes courses in health and safety, teamwork, and quality control. With advanced training and experience, production workers can advance to inspector jobs or to more skilled production, craft, operator, or repair jobs.

    United Kingdom:

    The focus of the National Vocational Qualifications Framework Qualifications at this level is on various aspects of the motor vehicle but not on assembly of vehicles nor on operating machinery as detailed in this qualification. The information below for the Level 2 BTEC Certificate in Engineering (Automotive) shows the emphasis.

    Qualification structure:
  • The units are all suitable for Engineering (Automotive). Individual learners could undertake any combination, but there are some natural groupings of the units.

    The following units are all suitable for Maintenance and Repair, Fitting, Body and Paint and Motorsports groupings:
  • Essential Working Practices in Vehicle Technology; Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Principles; Engineering Skills for Vehicle Repair; Vehicle Component Removal and Refitting Techniques; Vehicle Engine System Principles; Vehicle Science and Applied Mathematics.

    The following units are both also suitable for Maintenance and Repair, Fitting and Body and Paint groupings:
  • Vehicle Welding and Assembly Operations; Vehicle Valeting.

    The following units are both also suitable for Maintenance and Repair, Fitting and Motorsports groupings:
  • Vehicle Fault Diagnosis; Principles and Applications of Vehicle Electrical Systems and Components.

    The following units are all also suitable for Maintenance and Repair and Fitting groupings:
  • Routine Vehicle Maintenance; Vehicle Wheels, Tyres, Steering and Suspension Systems-Principles and Maintenance Systems.

    The following units are only suitable for the Fitting grouping:
  • Vehicle Fitting Operations-Brake Systems; Vehicle Fitting Operations-Exhaust Systems.

    The following units are only suitable for the Body and Paint grouping:
  • Non-welded, Non-structural Body Repair Processes; Vehicle Body Preparation and Application of Foundation Materials.

    The following units are only suitable for the Motorsports grouping:
  • Motorsport Vehicle Inspection; Stripping and Rebuilding Motorsport Engines (Pre-competition).

    Unit Standards for this Qualification:
  • Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Principles.
  • Engineering Skills for Vehicle Repair.
  • Vehicle Layout and Operation of Vehicle Systems.
  • Vehicle Science and Applied Mathematics.
  • Principles and Applications of Vehicle Electrical Systems and Components.
  • Vehicle Fault Diagnosis.
  • Routine Vehicle Maintenance.
  • Vehicle Wheels, Tyres, Steering and Suspension Systems-Principles and Maintenance Systems.
  • Vehicle Component Removal and Refitting Techniques.
  • Vehicle Fitting Operations-Brake Systems.
  • Vehicle Fitting Operations-Exhaust Systems.
  • Vehicle Valeting.
  • Non-welded, Non-structural Body Repair Processes.
  • Vehicle Engine System Principles.
  • Vehicle Body Preparation and Application of Foundation Materials.
  • Vehicle Welding and Assembly Operations.
  • Motorsport Vehicle Inspection.
  • Stripping and Rebuilding Motorsport Engines (Pre-competition).
  • Petrol Injection Systems for Spark Ignition Engines.

    While there are some shared competencies, the focus of the UK qualification is on the vehicle's systems and not on the machines used in manufacturing or assembly of vehicles.

    Conclusion:

    Although the automotive component industry is one of the world's largest industries, information on training programmes, qualifications and courses for comparability purposes was not easy to find.. In many cases, training is carried out at sites where manufacturing and assembly plants are located; and this happens to be in diverse countries.

    However, the information obtained above reveals that training internationally is not as comprehensive as this qualification. In many countries, training constitutes short courses or on-the-job training. Details regarding the duration, level and intensity of the latter are not available. The courses/programmes identified above overlap with this qualification to varying degrees. It seems that the Qualifications from Canada and Australia bear the closes resemblance to this qualification. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 49402: National Certificate: Steel Tube and Pipe Manufacturing (Seamless Hot-Finished OR Welded OR Cold-Formed), NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58781: National Certificate: Production Technology, NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58718: National Certificate: Metals Processing, NQF Level 2.

    Vertical articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 21005: National Certificate: Automotive Components, NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58785: National Certificate: Production Technology, NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58719: National Certificate: Metals Processing, NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, and Assurance (ETQA) Body.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQA's (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual Unit Standards, the integrated competence described in the Qualification and will include competence within core sales and the elective standards relevant to the economic sector.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
  • A minimum of 2 (two) years' practical, relevant occupational experience.
  • A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 3 or higher.
  • To be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 21004, "National Certificate: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly", Level 2, 134 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  335855  Assemble or manufacture components  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  259737  Complete finishing operations and dispatch product  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  259597  Explain emergency preparedness and response procedures  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  10252  Identify, inspect, use, maintain and care for engineering hand tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  335859  Operate and monitor production machines  Level 2  NQF Level 02  14 
    Core  335896  Prepare surfaces  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  335860  Read and interpret engineering drawings  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  259604  Verify compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Fundamental  119463  Access and use information from texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  9009  Apply basic knowledge of statistics and probability to influence the use of data and procedures in order to investigate life related problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  7480  Demonstrate understanding of rational and irrational numbers and number systems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  9008  Identify, describe, compare, classify, explore shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional shapes in different contexts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  119454  Maintain and adapt oral/signed communication  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  119460  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  7469  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal and community life  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Fundamental  9007  Work with a range of patterns and functions and solve problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  119456  Write/present for a defined context  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  110075  Apply basic fire fighting techniques  Level 1  NQF Level 01  3 
    Elective  119567  Perform basic life support and first aid procedures  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Elective  115101  Address workplace hazards and risks  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  259762  Demonstrate an understanding of HIV/AIDS and its impact on the workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Elective  12466  Explain the individual`s role within business  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  335897  Mark off regular engineering shapes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  12483  Perform basic first aid  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  119753  Perform basic welding/joining of metals  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Elective  9322  Work in a team  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.