Fitting and Machining
Fitters are responsible for the maintenance, repair and manufacture of metal products and machinery. Fitters in the minerals industry can specialise in the following areas:
- Diesel and heavy earthmoving equipment fitters - Diagnose problems, repair, overhaul, tune, maintain and test heavy duty mobile equipment used on site;
- Instrument fitters - Assemble, calibrate, install and commission precision instruments that measure, indicate, transmit, record and control;
- Mechanical Fitters - Service and repair brakes, engines, transmissions and suspension components;
- Fixed plant fitter - Overhaul pumps, install pumps, repair ball and rod mills, repair crushers, install plant and equipment;
- Electrical Fitter - Making, fitting or repairing electrical machines and instruments;
As a fitter you must be able to:
- Mark the shape and dimensions of a part to be machined by studying blueprints and using measuring instruments;
- Assemble and fit machined parts using drill holes and tap threads, if necessary, for bolting parts together;
- Check tightness of joints and operation of moving parts, and file or chisel parts to make final adjustments if the fit is not perfect;
- Cut, thread, bend and install hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines;
- Manufacture, repair and maintain equipment, and
- Identify faulty equipment
Skills needed:
- the ability to work under pressure;
- the ability to work on multiple tasks at the same time;
- the ability to prioritise critical tasks and cope with changing priorities;
- the ability to concentrate for a long period;
- excellent verbal communication skills;
- the ability to coordinate team activities;
- reliable, responsible, able to maintain alertness, must be assertive, and
- knowledge of plant and safety awareness, commitment to company values.
Money
HD Fitter: $70,000 — $140,000+
Mechanical Fitter: $70,000 - $100,000
Source: www.hays.com.au (July 2008)
Pathways
Entry is generally through an AQF Certificate III or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification. For more information on training, visit the VET Courses section of the Education & Training tab above or our Apprenticeships & Traineeships page.
Mining companies and contractors are the main employers of tradespeople in the mining industry. Visit Current Vacancies for links to relevant employment websites.
