Fitting & 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:
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Diesel and heavy earthmoving equipment fitters - Diagnose problems, repair, overhaul, tune, maintain and test heavy duty mobile equipment used on site;
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Instrument fitters - Assemble, calibrate, install and commission precision instruments that measure, indicate, transmit, record and control;
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Mechanical Fitters - Service and repair brakes, engines, transmissions and suspension components;
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Fixed plant fitter - Overhaul pumps, install pumps, repair ball and rod mills, repair crushers, install plant and equipment;
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Electrical Fitter - Making, fitting or repairing electrical machines and instruments;
As a fitter you must be able to:
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Mark the shape and dimensions of a part to be machined by studying blueprints and using measuring instruments;
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Assemble and fit machined parts using drill holes and tap threads, if necessary, for bolting parts together;
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Check tightness of joints and operation of moving parts, and file or chisel parts to make final adjustments if the fit is not perfect;
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Cut, thread, bend and install hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines;
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Manufacture, repair and maintain equipment, and
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Identify faulty equipment
Skills needed:
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the ability to work under pressure;
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the ability to work on multiple tasks at the same time;
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the ability to prioritise critical tasks and cope with changing priorities;
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the ability to concentrate for a long period;
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excellent verbal communication skills;
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the ability to coordinate team activities;
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reliable, responsible, able to maintain alertness, must be assertive, and
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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 to this occupation is generally through an AQF Certificate III or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification.
