Occupation Description

Fitter machinists are mechanical engineering tradespersons who have combined specialisation in mechanical fitting and metal machining.

A fitter fits and assembles parts and sub-assemblies made from metal and other materials to make production machinery and other equipment. Their work generally can be divided into three areas: marking out work to be done, assembling and installing machine components, and maintaining and repairing them. They may be known as bench fitters, diesel fitter mechanics, fitter machinists, fitter welders, fluid power fitters or maintenance fitters.

Fitters may shrink-fit parts during assembly, using oxy-acetylene torches and presses, dry ice and carbon dioxide freezing; manufacture, repair and fault-find hydraulic and pneumatic equipment; inspect machinery and make repairs; and erect machinery and equipment on site.

A metal machinist sets up and operates tools to cut, shape and form metal stock and castings to exact sizes, using detailed drawings, CAD systems and specifications. They machine metal components from single to complex form.

Metal machinists can specialise in many types of machining work such as turning, drilling, boring, milling, shaping or grinding. Machinists increasingly specialise in the use of computer-controlled machines that accurately cut or electrically erode shapes.

Mechanical engineering tradespersons may…

Personal Requirements

You should

Environment

Fitter machinists are usually employed by engineering workshops, and manufacturing firms . Most fitter machinists usually work in workshops or production areas that can be noisy, and - or hot and - or dusty. They may spend most of their day standing and often need to bend, crouch or climb. Fitter machinists must be aware of safety regulations and wear protective equipment (for example, ear muffs, eye and other body protection to minimise the risk of injury in the workplace).

Training

You can sometimes work as a mechanical engineering worker without undertaking any formal training or qualifications however some employers will prefer that you do. To work as a CNC operator or an equipment maintainer or repairer you will usually require a Certificate II in Engineering.

With experience, and possibly some further training, mechanical engineering workers may become a fitter machinist (mechanical engineering tradesperson). This will usually require a Certificate III in Engineering (Mechanical Trade).

With further study and experience, competent mechanical engineering tradespeople can upgrade their qualifications to the work as technician, supervisor or draftsperson ( Certificate IV in Engineering). Further steps include occupations such as CNC robotic cell designer, mechatronics technician, systems, mechatronics or CAM (computer aided machine) designer (Diploma of Engineering (Advanced Trade), and engineering associate or para-professional (Advanced Diploma of Engineering). It is always possible that you can end up in a number of senior management positions.

Certificate II in Engineering
Certificate III in Engineering (Mechanical Trade)
Certificate IV in Engineering
Diploma of Engineering (Advanced Trade)
Advanced Diploma of Engineering

Earnings, Job and Employment Prospects

For detailed information about earnings, job and employment prospects for this occupation, go to the Australian JobSearch Careers page and click on Job Outlook .

Printed Resources

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Where Can I Go From This Job?

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