Mechanic CV Example & Writing Guide

From routine maintenance to complex diagnostics, your skills as a mechanic are essential to keeping New Zealand's vehicles running smoothly. 

A well-crafted CV is your first step towards landing that perfect role as a mechanic in the automotive industry.

Not sure how to get started? We’ve got you covered! With expert mechanic CV examples, industry-specific tips, and an innovative online CV builder, we’re here to help you showcase your technical expertise and land your dream job in the automotive industry.

How to write a mechanic CV:

Start off strong with these essential sections in your CV header:

• The header
• The personal statement
• The employment history section
• The skills section
• The education section

To secure your place in the competitive automotive industry, equip yourself with a CV that showcases your technical prowess and experience. 

Consider the following tips:

1. Showcase your hands-on experience and detail your work on specific vehicle makes, models, and systems.
2. Emphasise your ability to quickly and accurately identify and resolve complex mechanical issues.
3. List specialised tools and equipment you're proficient with or any relevant industry certifications
4. Illustrate your impact with specific examples and metrics, e.g., "Diagnosed and repaired 20+ complex engine issues per month.”

Opt for an impressive, clean CV format

When it comes to CV formats, the reverse chronological CV format is usually the best CV format for mechanics. This format highlights your most recent work experience first and is typically the most effective way to showcase your growing expertise and qualifications as a mechanic. 

If you have a more varied employment history, or less work experience, a functional or combination CV may be a better option. 

These CV formats can highlight your transferable skills, such as problem-solving, technical aptitude, and customer service, making them more attractive to potential employers.

Include your contact details

In your CV header, provide accurate and professional contact information, such as:

• Full Name & Job Title: Clearly state your first and last name. If you’re applying for a specific role within the automotive industry (e.g., "Diesel Mechanic," "Automotive Technician,”) include those details here.
• Email Address: Use a professional email address that includes your first and last name.
• Contact Number: Include a phone number with a clear and professional voicemail message.
• Location: Include your city and region. If you're open to relocating for work, you can mention that in this section.
• Links to professional websites: Add links to relevant online profiles, such as LinkedIn profiles, that showcase your mechanical skills and experience.

Include an engaging personal statement

In the personal statement section of your mechanic CV, it's essential to showcase your value and skillset to potential employers. Use this space to highlight your passion for the automotive industry and commitment to excellence.

In 2-4 brief sentences, emphasise relevant automotive experiences, skills, and qualities that make you an ideal candidate for the mechanic role. 

Focus on your mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and any specialised knowledge or certifications that set you apart.

For example: "Highly motivated and results-oriented mechanic with a passion for diagnostics and troubleshooting.”

For more inspiration to help you craft your personal statement, check out our related electrician CV example, truck driver CV example, driver CV example, civil engineer CV example, and engineering CV example. 

You can also take a look at our customisable mechanic CV examples below:

Outline your work experience

In the work history section of your mechanic CV, it’s a good idea to use powerful action verbs and concise bullet points to showcase your hands-on contributions and successes in past positions.

Discuss the specific tasks you performed and the results you delivered, highlighting your technical knowledge, troubleshooting skills, and efficiency.

For example, instead of stating:

• Performed routine vehicle upkeep
• Identified and resolved mechanical problems
• Assisted colleagues with intricate repairs

You could rephrase these statements as:

• Executed comprehensive preventative maintenance on a fleet of 40+ company vehicles
• Diagnosed and rectified 100+ electrical faults across various makes and models, resulting in a 98% customer satisfaction rate
• Led a team of 4 technicians in rebuilding a transmission for a classic car, completing the project ahead of schedule and under budget

We always recommend quantifying your impact with concrete figures and metrics to illustrate the tangible value you provided to previous employers. This can help you stand out from the crowd and get hired faster. 

List relevant mechanic skills

Not sure what skills to include in your CV? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! It’s essential to tailor your skills to the specific job requirements by carefully reviewing the mechanic job description.

Tailoring your skills section to the specific job requirements guarantees that you highlight your most valuable assets, increasing your chances of impressing potential employers. 

Consider including the following skills:

Including a mix of technical competencies and hard skills alongside your interpersonal soft skills can help better position yourself as a top contender for the mechanic position.

Detail your education & relevant certifications

In the education and training section of your mechanic CV, focus on highlighting relevant qualifications and certifications that demonstrate your technical expertise and commitment to the automotive industry. 

The specific courses and training you list should depend on your specialisation and career goals. For example, you could include the following: 

• Formal Education: Include details about relevant degrees or diplomas earned from tertiary institutions like MITO, Unitec or polytechnics. Provide details about the institution, dates attended, and any outstanding awards or accomplishments. 
   
• Certifications: List any relevant certifications from industry-recognised institutions. These could include a Certificate in Automotive Engineering or a Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering.  
   
• Training: Include details about any training courses you've completed with specific car manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, or Holden.

Choose an appropriate CV design 

When it comes to CV layout and design, it’s essential to think of your CV as your personal marketing tool. 

Aim for a concise CV, around one page in length, and select a professional or modern CV template that highlights your most relevant qualifications and showcases your skills.

Shift your mechanic career into high gear with a polished CV built using our impressive online CV builder.

Showcase your technical expertise, hands-on experience, and certifications with a tailored CV and industry-specific templates designed to get you noticed by top employers.