Engineering Tradesperson - Mechanical

Summary

Mechanical engineering tradespersons carry out a range of mechanical work on machines, subassemblies and manufactured parts using a range of processes, tools and machines.

Duties & Tasks

Mechanical engineering tradespeople may perform the following tasks:

  • examine detailed drawings or specifications to determine job, material and equipment requirements
  • set up and adjust metalworking machines and equipment
  • operate machines to produce parts or tools by turning, boring, milling, planing, shaping, slotting, grinding or drilling metal stock or components
  • fit and assemble metal parts, tools or subassemblies, including welding or brazing parts
  • cut, thread, bend and install hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines
  • dismantle faulty tools and assemblies and repair or replace defective parts
  • set up and/or operate hand and machine tools, welding equipment or Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines
  • check accuracy and quality of finished parts, tools or subassemblies.

Specialisations

Fitter

A fitter fits and assembles parts and subassemblies made from metal and other materials to maintain and repair production machinery and other equipment. The work of fitters can be divided into three main areas: marking out work to be done, assembling and installing machines and maintaining and repairing them.

Gunsmith

A gunsmith alters, services and repairs rifles, revolvers and other firearms. Gunsmiths need good background training in fitting, turning and welding. Knowledge of woodwork and different types of steel is useful for producing, fitting and polishing various parts.

Metal Machinist

A metal machinist sets up and operates tools to cut, shape and form metal stock and castings to exact sizes, using detailed drawings, Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) systems and specifications. They machine metal components from simple to complex forms. Metal machinists make machines and equipment that are used to produce goods such as food, clothes, steel products and cars.

Toolmaker

A toolmaker makes and repairs moulds, dies, jigs, fixtures, press tools and other special equipment, to produce parts for industrial machinery and most other manufactured articles. They may make precision machinery for machine tools and other manufacturing machinery.

Working Conditions

Mechanical engineering tradespersons usually work in workshops or production areas that can be noisy, hot and dusty. They may spend most of their day standing and often need to bend, crouch or climb.

Mechanical engineering tradespersons must be aware of safety regulations and wear protective equipment (for example, earmuffs to minimise noise levels in the workplace).

Personal Requirements

  • enjoy technical work
  • able to cope with the physical demands of the job
  • good hand-eye coordination
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • practical ability
  • attention to detail
  • normal hearing
  • no skin allergies.

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