Duties and Tasks

Fabrication engineering tradespersons may perform the following tasks:

• examine detailed drawings or specifications to find out job, material and equipment requirements
• cut, roll, shape, bend, mould, spin, heat or hammer metal products to fabricate parts or sub-assemblies
• heat treat metal parts and components
• set up and/or operate hand and machine tools, welding equipment or Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines
• assemble parts and structures by lining up and joining them by welding, bolting or riveting
• finish products by cleaning, polishing, filing or bathing them in acid solutions, or by applying protective or decorative coatings.

Specialisations

With experience and further study, competent tradespeople can upgrade their qualifications to technician, associate, technologist or engineer level.

Blacksmith
Boilermaker (Heavy Fabrication)
Electroplater
Engineering Patternmaker
Moulder/Coremaker
Sheetmetal Worker (Light Fabrication)
Welder - First Class

Work Conditions

Recent changes in the industry are leading to a number of trade jobs being merged into a single broad occupation. The new training structure allows apprentices to develop a mix of skills from the traditional trades or occupations.

Fabrication engineering tradespersons work in workshops or production areas that can be noisy, hot and dusty. They usually spend most of their day standing and often need to bend, crouch or climb. Some may be required to work in confined spaces or at heights, and many work shifts. They may work in a team or alone. Workshops are generally spacious, ventilated and well lit.

Fabrication engineering tradespersons must be aware of safety regulations and must wear protective equipment to minimise heat and noise levels, and to guard against corrosive chemicals.

Personal Requirements

• enjoy working with machines
• interested in computer programmable machinery
• physically fit
• strength to handle materials, tools and machines
• good hand-eye coordination
• able to work in a team or independently
• patience and accuracy
• no skin or breathing allergies
• safety conscious.

Related Industries

Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
Construction Services
Polymer Product and Rubber Product Manufacturing
Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Sheetmetal Trades Workers

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Sheetmetal Workers (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Work Opportunities websites

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