Mechanical Service Apprenticeships
D&E Mechanical Service Apprenticeship Program
For over 35 years, D&E have produced skilled trades professionals – talented men and women who enjoy long and successful careers in the construction industry as plumbers, refrigeration mechanics, HVAC technicians and more…
We support the next generation of skilled professionals by providing meaningful apprenticeship opportunities across our organisation.
D&E’s mechanical service apprenticeship program is built around a positive and practical learning environment – one where apprentices can grow in confidence, develop industry‑relevant skills, and be supported at every stage of their journey.
We work closely with apprentices, trainers, and mentors to ensure everyone receives hands‑on experience, structured training, and clear pathways for career development.
Accredited Training
Apprenticeship training programs are designed to equip individuals with nationally recognised qualifications that meet industry standards.
Nationwide apprenticeship options with D&E include:
- Plumbing (Certificate III in Plumbing – Mechanical Services)
- Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration)
Training is delivered by local TAFE’s and on-site experienced supervisors who provide personalised support throughout the program. Typically, there are nine blocks of TAFE training that you will complete as part of the apprenticeship.
A standard 4-year apprenticeship Includes:
- Classroom studies through local TAFE’s
- On the job mechanical services training
- Mentoring and coaching from qualified supervisors
- Role specific technical skills development
This structured journey ensures apprentices gain the hands-on experience and industry knowledge needed for long term success.
What Kind of Experience Will I Gain?
D&E focus on building real‑world skills, ensuring every learner is job ready and confident in their role.
Alongside your TAFE accredited training, we also provide our own structured training program, including additional training courses to support your development. and ensure you will finish your apprenticeship as a qualified mechanical services plumber or air conditioning & refrigeration technician, equipped with a strong range of additional role specific skills and nationally recognised qualifications.
As part of the D&E mechanical services apprenticeship program, you will typically complete an additional 2-3 role specific technical training courses each year, which may include:
- Elevated Work Platform License
- Height Safety Awareness Training
- High Risk License
- Forklift License
- Workplace Wellbeing & Mental Health Awareness
Industry Awards & Recognition
Throughout your apprenticeship, there may also be opportunities to recognise your achievements through local TAFE awards, state or national industry awards or technical skills competitions.
Career Progression & Pathways
D&E’s Plumbing or Air Conditioning & Refrigeration apprenticeships opens the door to a variety of rewarding career pathways within our site construction, prefabrication or building services teams.
Potential roles include:
- Qualified Mechanical Services Technician (Plumbing)
- Welder / Fabricator
- Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Service Mechanic
- HVAC Technician / Technical Specialist
- Maintenance / Service Technician
Career progression opportunities include:
- Leading Hand
- Team Supervisor
- Department Manager
- State Manager
- National Manager
What We Offer You at D&E
- Continuous learning through tailored development and mentoring programs.
- Supportive, team-focused culture built on collaboration and innovation.
- Mental Health and Wellbeing initiatives to help you thrive.
- Service Recognition Awards celebrating your milestones.
- Employee Assistance Program for your wellbeing.
- And, of course, a competitive salary to match your growth and contribution.
When Does the Program Begin?
Every year D&E recruits new mechanical service apprentices across all our base locations.
With our leading apprenticeship program, the competition is fierce and every year we have a tough time choosing the perfect candidates for the positions.
We usually start looking at resumes in September, with interviews commencing late October through November. The apprenticeships begin in the following January / February.
This schedule is subject to change, so visit our website regularly for updates.