Mechanical Engineering Tradesperson (Fitter)

Fitters skillfully convert engineering designs into tangible, functional components and machinery. Working primarily in workshop environments, you’ll operate a range of sophisticated equipment including lathes, mills, and grinders to craft metal parts with exacting precision. Your role extends beyond fabrication to include assembly, installation, and maintenance of complex mechanical systems. 

Your role may include duties as follows: 

1. Operating lathes, mills, and other machinery to cut, shape, and finish metal parts following detailed technical specifications.
2. Assembling and installing machinery and mechanical systems.
3. Diagnosing issues, replacing worn parts, and performing routine adjustments to keep systems running smoothly.
4. Following design specifications to create but also understand intended function
5. Measuring the final accuracy of machinery output.

This is a career where you see the impact of your work every day — whether it’s a turbine blade, a medical implant, or a part for the next generation of robotics. It’s creative, practical, and future-focused. Best of all, it’s the kind of job where you can point to something and proudly say, “I made that.”

Vocational Education Training Options

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best way to gain employment as a Fitter. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships: 

• Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219) 
• Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Machining) (MEM30219) 
• Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting) (MEM30219) 
• Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting/machining) (MEM30219) 

Salary Expectations

Median salary is $116,600

This wage reflects full qualification and typical experience in the field and excludes apprentice rates. 

Source: 2023 ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (Jobs and Skills Australia website), annualised weekly earnings for Metal Fitters and Machinists.