Fitter Machinist Apprenticeship

Fitter machinists are highly skilled and play a vital role in the manufacturing and maintenance of machinery and mechanical systems.

Their work is essential to ensure the proper functioning and safety of various industries, and they are often in demand in manufacturing facilities and machine shops.

A fitter machinist apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with their hands, have a passion for mechanical systems, and are committed to honing their precision machining and fitting skills.

A Fitter Machinist Apprenticeship, like similar engineering apprenticeships, takes around 4 years to complete.

You will earn a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade and develop hands-on skills in a real work environment.

A fitter machinist, often simply referred to as a machinist or fitter, is a skilled tradesperson specialising in the fabrication, maintenance, and repair of machinery and mechanical equipment. They play a crucial role in various industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive.

Key responsibilities and tasks include:

Machining: Fitter machinists use a variety of machine tools and precision instruments to cut, shape, and finish metal and other materials to precise specifications. This includes the set up and operation of lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drilling machines to create parts and components.

Fitter machinists may also work with computer numerical control (CNC) machines, which are automated tools controlled by computer programs to perform precise machining operations.

Measurement and inspection: Fitter machinists use measuring instruments such as callipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision tools to ensure that parts meet the required tolerances and specifications.

They must be proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints and engineering specifications to understand the requirements of a given project.

Assembly: They assemble components and parts into larger mechanical systems or machines. This may involve fitting, aligning, and adjusting parts to ensure proper functioning.

Maintenance and repair: Fitter machinists are often responsible for maintaining and repairing existing machinery and equipment. This includes troubleshooting issues, identifying worn or damaged parts, and performing necessary repairs or replacements.

A newly qualified fitter can earn between $75,000 and $95,000, depending on the industry. (Seek)

Fitter machinist apprentice wages are paid under the Australian Government’s Manufacturing Award, and are based on factors like your age and completion of high school.

Indicative wages for a fitter machinist apprentice as at 1 July 2024:

• Under 17 years of age: $516.15 to $908.42 per week

• 17 to 20 years of age: $567.77 to $949.20 per week

• Over 21 years of age: $825.84 to $949.20 per week

Award wages increase as you progress through your apprenticeship, and additional inclusions and support payments are available to eligible apprentices.

A fitter machinist apprenticeship is a hands-on, technical career path requiring the following attributes:

• Mechanical aptitude and desire to work with machinery, tools, and mechanical systems
• Attention to detail needed for precise measurements, tolerances, and quality of finished products
• Problem-solving skills to analyse and troubleshoot issues
• Time management and prioritisation skills as you are predominantly maintaining machinery that needs to be back online ASAP
• Creativity to develop effective solutions
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills to operate precision machinery and tools
• Maths skills to perform calculations, measurements, and interpreting technical drawings