Frame & Truss
Frame & truss manufacturers make pre-nailed timber framing sections of walls and roofs commonly used in New Zealand buildings. Frame & truss detailers interpret plans and drawings to create layout plans and cutting lists that are then processed by the frame and truss manufacturers.
No Fees
All frame & truss qualifications are free until 2023. Find out more.
Job Prospects
Very good
Total Fees
FREE until 2023 (previously $2,000-$3,000)
Time to qualify
1-2 years
Career opportunities
Frame and truss fabricator, frame and truss detailer, supervisor, plant manager, business owner
Qualifications
What frame & truss specialists do
Frame & truss specialists have to understand the qualities of timber best suited to carry and support a building's structure. They calculate quantities; interpret plans and specifications before undertaking construction, and ensure the finished product is fit for purpose and of a high standard. Work is mostly carried out indoors in a large manufacturing facility, working with saws, cranes, hoists and your main tool of the trade – the nail gun. For more complex builds they may also travel to sites to oversee the fitting and standing of frames.
Frame & truss qualifications
The BCITO manages apprenticeships for frame & truss manufacture specialists. In your frame and truss manufacturing apprenticeship you will work towards one of the following qualifications:
- National Certificate in Frame & Truss Manufacture Level 3
- New Zealand Certificate in Frame & Truss Detailing Level 4
You will work at a frame and truss manufacturer under an experienced employer who'll provide on-job coaching and support throughout your apprenticeship. You'll also receive the guidance of a BCITO training advisor.
There are no strict entry requirements, although it will help if you have good maths and English skills – you need to be able to understand instructions and work out measurements, quantities and angles.
Your apprenticeship is the start of a professional career
Working in frame and truss manufacturing or detailing isn't just a job – it's a professional career. By doing an apprenticeship and getting qualified, you're setting yourself up for ongoing employment as a well-paid tradesperson. You’ll also open up opportunities to do further study in supervision or site management, go to university, or start a business and train your own apprentices.
