Career paths available

Boilermaker
Bricklayer
Cabinetmaker
Carpenter/Joiner
Electrical Mechanic
Fitter
Motor Mechanic
Plumber

Boilermaker

Description

Boilermakers cut, shape, assemble and join metal parts to produce or repair containers that have to withstand pressure, such as ships, boilers and storage tanks.

Boilermakers may perform the following tasks:

• determine the requirements and the steps needed to complete the job, by converting measurements using scale-drawing dimensions to produce full-sized components
• mark off on the metal where to cut, drill, bend and carry out other types of work, using measuring and marking-off tools such as rulers, punches and dividers
• cut marked metal sections using hand tools, flame cutting torches, or metalworking machines such as guillotines and shearing machines
• shape and bend sections and pipes by forging or using hand and machine tools such as vices, hydraulic presses and rolling machines
• assemble parts and structures by lining up and joining them by welding, bolting or riveting, or with the aid of cranes and other equipment if the job is large
• make templates in order to produce large numbers of identical shapes
• Program and operate numerically controlled profile-cutting machines.

Structural Steel Workers

• Fit, assemble and join iron and steel in the making or repair of towers, bridges, structural supports and girders. Structural steel workers may perform the following tasks:
• interpret engineering drawings and other specifications to find out where parts go and how they fit together
• heat and shape the metal in furnaces with air-powered rams
• check sections are lined up and assembled properly with the aid of cranes, gas and electric welding or rivets
• assist in testing that assembled structures meet specifications for stress, tension and correct positioning
• Repair structures on-site by unbolting or flame-cutting faulty sections, replacing the worn parts of bolts and installing new sections.

Pressure Welders

• Assemble, weld and repair pressure vessels such as storage tanks, pipelines and gas cylinders to special test standards. Pressure welders may perform the following tasks:
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications blueprints to find out what needs to be done
• Clean and prepare metal, such as mild, alloy and stainless steel, aluminium and copper, by gouging, bevelling, grinding or filing
• Cut metal shapes using a heat flame
• Assemble components to be joined and hold them in place by tack-welding or jigging
• Select welding methods suitable for the type and thickness of metal and weld surfaces to be joined, eg. metal arc welding is commonly used for pressure vessels
• Clean and smooth welds by filing, chiselling or grinding, and check welds for precision. Boilerworkers may specialise as boilermaker/welders or as boilermaker/marker-offs. Most boilermakers train in both boiler making and structural fabrication and so may also be involved in fitting, assembling and joining aluminium and steel in the construction or repair of towers, bridges, structural supports, girders and ships. Boilermakers may work indoors in large workshops; or on site during shipbuilding or tank and pipeline construction. Potential employees must demonstrate awareness of personal and industrial safety and wear supplied protective equipment.

Personal Requirements:

• Physically fit with a high degree of hand-eye coordination
• Strength to handle materials, tools and machines

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship in engineering (fabrication). The length of your training can vary and may be undertaken on and off the job. Training is provided through registered training organisations including TAFE. Entry requirements may vary, but generally require at least the successful completion of Year 10.

Additional Information:

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

Employment Opportunities:

Boilermakers work for engineering and construction firms, motor vehicle manufacturers, shipyards, and electricity and gas supply authorities. Some are employed by Commonwealth and State government departments. They work mainly in capital cities, suburbs and in large country industrial centres.
Job opportunities depend on:

• Changes to the structure of metal trade occupations
• The level of demand for locally produced manufactured goods
• The level of production and exports of goods
• The rate of technological change
• The number of new projects in heavy engineering, mining or steel construction.

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Bricklayer

Description

Bricklayers work with clay bricks, pre-cut stone, concrete blocks and other types of building bricks in mortar to construct and repair veneer and full-brick constructions, partitions, arches and other structures.

Bricklayers may perform the following tasks:

• work from plans and specifications
• seal foundations with damp-resistant materials
• spread layers of mortar to serve as a base and binder for bricks, remove excess mortar, and check vertical and horizontal alignment
• use various tools and brick-cutting machines to cut and shape bricks
• construct arches and ornamental brickwork
• repair and maintain clay bricks, cement blocks/bricks and related structures
• Erect scaffolding (subject to licence requirements in some states).

Bricklayers may specialise in: refractory work, where they build and line kilns and industrial furnaces; and salt damp repair, where they replace salt damp-affected masonry and repair buildings.

Bricklayers work outdoors and may have to work at heights or in tunnels and shafts. They usually work in teams and may be employed by bricklaying subcontractors or building and construction companies. They may also work as self-employed tradespeople.

Bricklayers may have some contact with the public.

Personal Requirements:

• able to work with hands
• able to follow plans
• able to work at heights and outdoors
• physically fit and healthy

Related Jobs:

• Builder's Labourer
• Carpenter/Joiner
• Concrete Worker
• Plasterer - Fibrous
• Plasterer - Solid
• Stonemason
• Tiler - Roof

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship in bricklaying.
The length of training can vary and may be undertaken both on and off the job. Training is provided through registered training organisations including TAFE. Entry requirements may vary but generally you need at least the successful completion of Year 10.

Employment Opportunities:

Employment may be sought with bricklaying contractors and general building contractors. Experienced tradespeople may be promoted to supervisory positions. By undertaking further studies with registered training organisations, including TAFE, experienced tradespeople can also advance to other positions within the building industry such as clerk of works, building inspector, building technician or registered builder.
Most work is in housing construction as self-employed sub-contractors. Trade qualifications are sought after but are not essential and about 30 per cent of bricklayer’s hold no qualifications. Because of periodic fluctuations in the building industry, supply and demand can change over a short period. Qualified tradespeople are less likely to be affected by downturns in demand than are unqualified bricklayers. Currently, the industry is very active, with a great demand for apprentices.
The building industry throughout Australia is experiencing a boom.

Employment prospects depend on

• The number of home building commencements and level of alterations in the residential building sector.
• The number and value of commercial constructions (eg. offices, retail premises) being built.
• The level of interest rates and availability of finance.

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Cabinetmaker

Description

Cabinetmakers make or repair furniture from solid timber, flat-panel or timber-based products, and fit and assemble prepared components for the domestic, office, commercial and shop fitting sectors of the industry for both freestanding and fitted furniture.

Cabinetmakers who work in factories usually make articles that are designed by other people and produced in large numbers.

Cabinetmakers may perform the following tasks:

• Select and prepare timber and manufactured board and mark out, cut and shape pieces using saws, chisels, planes, power tools and woodworking machines
• Trim and glue joints and fit parts together to form sections of furniture
• Place sections in clamps, apply pressure and reinforce joints with nails, dowels and screws
• Assemble sections to form completed articles
• Polish furniture
• Fit hinges, locks, catches, drawers and shelves
• Install completed products
• Repair damaged furniture and cabinets
• Prepare drawings from specifications or determine job requirements by examining drawings and specifications
• Make jigs, templates or prototypes for production assembly of furniture
• Supervise apprentices and assist with on-the-job training.

Cabinetmakers may specialise in particular items such as reproduction of antique furniture, kitchen fittings, bedroom suites, and office furniture, dining suites, shop fittings and occasional furniture.

Personal Requirements:

• Manual dexterity
• Able to follow written instructions
• Able to work to a high level of accuracy
• Able to make mathematical calculations
• Good communication skills
• Free from allergies to dust

Related Jobs:

• Carpenter/Joiner
• Furniture Polisher
• Wood Carver
• Wood Machinist

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship. The length of training can vary and may be undertaken on and off the job. Training is provided through registered training organisations, including TAFE. Entry requirements may vary but, generally, you need at least the successful completion of Year 10.

Employment Opportunities:

Most cabinetmakers are employed by firms manufacturing wood products such as furniture, wooden structural fittings and pre-fabricated wooden components. These firms may be small businesses which make custom-made items or undertake repairs and restoration, or large factories which mass-produce goods.
Depending on the personal qualities and knowledge of the tradesperson, opportunities are available for promotion to the position of supervisor or manager. With experience, capital and some management training, competent cabinetmakers may also establish their own business.
Employment prospects depend on the level of housing construction and the level of consumer spending on furniture. Technological advancements and mechanisation have reduced the need for labour skills in the manufacturing process. However, with the increase in imports, there are great employment prospects in the service and repair areas of the industry.

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Carpenter/Joiner

Description

Carpenters and joiners construct, erect, install, finish and repair wooden and metal structures and fixtures, used on the inside and outside of buildings of residential and commercial constructions.

Carpenters may also work on large concrete, steel and timber structures, such as bridges, dams, power stations and in civil engineering construction. Joiners work mainly on the internal fittings of buildings, such as window frames, sashes, doors and staircases.

Carpenters

• May perform the following tasks:
• Construct formwork into which concrete is poured
• Set out an outline of the building on the ground of the site, using string and pegs to allow for excavations
• Erect floors and wall frameworks (timber or metal), erect roofs, erect suspended ceilings and lay timber floors
• Read plans and specifications to determine the materials required, dimensions and installation processes
• Install metal and timber windows and sashes, and metal and timber doors, including fire-proof doors
• Construct and erect prefabricated units, such as cottages and houses
• Cut materials with hand and power tools, and assemble or nail, cut and shape parts
• Install door handles, locks, hardware, flooring underlay, insulating material and other fixtures
• Maintain and sharpen tools.

Joiners

• May perform the following tasks:
• Determine job requirements from drawings, templates and written instructions
• Set up jigs, select timber, and cut these to size and shape using templates
• Cut joints, using wood-cutting machines or hand-powered tools
• Assemble prepared wood to form structures and fittings
• Work with plastic laminates, perspex or metals
• Maintain and sharpen tools.

Personal Requirements:

• able to work with your hands
• a sense of balance and ability to work at heights (for carpenters)
• good maths skills
• good health and eyesight
• must enjoy working in a team

Related Jobs:

• Cabinetmaker
•  Wood Machinist

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship.
The length of your training can vary, and training may be undertaken on or off the job. Training is provided through registered training organisations, including TAFE. Entry requirements may vary, but generally include at least successful completion of Year 10.

Employment Opportunities:

Carpenters may work as subcontractors or may be employed by building and construction companies, small firms that carry out contract building work, or Commonwealth, State and Territory government departments. Some carpenters establish their own businesses and employ other workers.
Carpenters are normally employed on housing estates, construction and civil engineering projects, and for maintenance in large factories, hospitals, institutions and private homes.
Joiners work mainly in joinery firms, joinery workshops of timber merchants, and for building subcontractors. A number are self-employed.
Employment prospects depend on the level of activity in the building construction industry. This is affected by such factors as interest rates, spending on major projects and the availability of finance to homebuyers.
With further training and experience, carpenters and joiners can become clerks of works, building supervisors, building and construction managers, building inspectors, technical teachers, estimators, building contract administrators and purchasing officers.

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Electrical Mechanic

Alternative Titles: Electrician

Description

Electrical mechanics install, maintain and repair electrical wiring systems and electric heating and lighting in houses, factories, shops, substations and other premises.

Electrical mechanics may perform the following tasks:

• Read wiring diagrams to plan layout of wiring systems, e.g. switchboards, power outlets, lights and switches
• Install insulated cables and connect switches, outlets and other fittings using hand or power tools, screwdrivers and wire cutters
• Provide enough circuits (wiring systems) for the amount of electrical appliances and outlets required
• Connect ends of installed cables to circuit breakers, transformers, motors, heaters and other electrical equipment to complete circuits
• Test circuits and appliances
• Connect system to power supply
• Install electrical equipment such as storage heaters, water heaters, electric signs, switchboards, motors and other electrical equipment.

After satisfactorily completing an appropriate business course and/or examination, electrical mechanics may specialise as electrical contractors, who order materials, organise staff to meet customer needs and carry out other tasks associated with running a business.

Electrical mechanics need to work neatly as it is usually expected that the wiring circuits will not be visible.

Personal Requirements:

• Aptitude for reading technical drawings and specifications, especially circuit diagrams
• Manual dexterity
• Normal eyesight and colour vision
• Diagnostic ability

Related Jobs:

• Electrical Engineering Associate
• Electrical Engineering Technician
• Electrical Fitter
• Electronics Serviceperson
• Instrument Fitter

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship in Electro technology (Systems Electrician). The length of your training can vary and may be undertaken on or off the job. Entry requirements may vary, but generally include at least the successful completion of Year 10.

Employment Opportunities:

Electrical mechanics are either contractors working on their own behalf, or are employed by other contractors. They are mainly employed in the building and construction, manufacturing, mining, energy and water supply industries. A small number also work for Commonwealth and State government departments and instrumentalities.
Promotion to supervisory, technician, engineering and management positions are possible with experience and further training.
The electrical trades are undergoing a process of change that will lead to greater mobility between the various trades. In future years, electrical workers are expected to be able to perform a wide variety of duties across different trades.

Job opportunities depend on:

• Overall economic activity and the level of consumer spending
• The level of business investment in new technology, plant and equipment
• The level of building activity in the housing and commercial sectors
• Sales of manufactured goods, particularly electrical appliances and equipment
• The amount of repair that is needed for electrical equipment.

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Fitter

Description

Fitters fit and assemble parts and sub-assemblies made from metal and other materials to make production machinery and other equipment. They work from detailed drawings or specifications using hand and machine tools and precision measuring instruments.

The work of fitters can be divided into three main areas:

• Marking out the work to be done
• Assembling and installing machines
• Maintaining and repairing them.

Fitters may perform the following tasks:

• 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
• Clean and lubricate assembled articles
• Shrink-fit parts during assembly, using Oxy-acetylene torches and presses, dry ice and carbon dioxide freezing
• Manufacture, repair and fault-find hydraulic and pneumatic equipment
• Operate powered machines which may be manually or computer controlled
• Erect machinery and equipment on site
• Inspect machinery regularly and make any adjustments or repairs needed, by removing any worn or damaged parts to install replacements, by sending a damaged part to the machine shop for repair or by doing the repair work themselves.
• Potential employees must demonstrate awareness of personal and industrial safety, and must wear supplied protective clothing. Safety glasses and earmuffs may be worn for protection in workshops and factories.

Diesel Fitter Mechanics

• Maintain and repair heavy earth-moving equipment, and are mainly employed in the mining industry and associated organisations.

Fitter Machinists

• Conduct minor machining of components and repair of mechanical equipment.

Maintenance Fitters

• Maintain mechanical equipment such as pumps, compressors and conveyor belts.

Fluid Power Fitters

• Build or repair hydraulic (oil-driven) and pneumatic (air-driven) equipment.

Fitter Welders

• Conduct mechanical repair by utilising basic welding skills.

Sewing Machine Mechanics

• Assemble, adjust, lubricate and repair sewing machines.

Bench Fitters

• Work in workshops and conduct componentry mechanical repair.

Metal Machinists

• Machine metal components from single to complex form.

Personal Requirements:

• Physically fit with high degree of manual dexterity
• Good eyesight
• Aptitude for mechanical work
• Aptitude for understanding mechanical drawings and specifications
• Attention to detail

Related Jobs:

• Boilermaker
• Metal Casting Patternmaker
• Metal Machinist
• Moulder/Coremaker
• Toolmaker

Education and Training:

Entry to this job requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship in Engineering (Mechanical). The length of your training can vary, and training may be undertaken on and off the job. Training is provided through registered training organisations, including TAFE. Entry requirements may vary, but generally require at least successful completion of Year 10.

Additional Information:

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

Employment Opportunities:

Fitters are employed by engineering workshops and in most industrial settings as maintenance fitters. The qualified fitter workforce is highly skilled. Employment opportunities have been good for qualified personnel. They play an essential role in manufacturing and maintenance processes.
To maintain employability, fitters are expected to keep up to date with the latest technological advancements, such as computer-aided and controlled machining equipment and other developments in process control and hydraulics.
Demand for fitters is largely dependent on levels of activity in the manufacturing sector, although they are employed in many other industries, such as mining, transport, construction, electricity, gas and water.

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Motor Mechanic

Alternative Titles: Automotive Mechanic, Engineering Tradesperson (Mechanic), Vehicle Mechanic

Description

Motor mechanics service, repair and overhaul the mechanical parts of motor vehicles such as the engine, the transmission (clutch, gearbox and differential), and the suspension systems (springs, steering, brakes, wheels and tyres).

They may also work on earthmoving equipment, agricultural machinery, boat engines and motor cycles. Also see the entries for heavy vehicle mechanic and light engine mechanic. Most motor mechanics service and repair petrol engine vehicles, but some also work on diesel engines.

Motor mechanics may perform the following tasks:

• Discuss problems with car drivers or vehicle operators to discover faults, listen to engines, fit and operate special test equipment and test drive vehicles
• Repair or replace worn and faulty parts by removing assemblies such as engines, transmissions, differentials or steering gear; dismantle them and check parts, referring to manuals as necessary
• Reassemble, test, clean and adjust repaired or replaced parts or assemblies, use various instruments to make sure they are working properly and put them back into the vehicle
• Tune engines using special electronic equipment and make fine adjustments, e.g. to carburettors for smoother running
• Carry out minor body repairs and minor trim repairs
• Diagnose, repair and replace engine management/fuel injection components
• Use Oxy, electric, TIG and MIG welders
• Test and repair electrical systems such as lighting, instrumentation, ignition and electronic fuel injection
• Inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or list the work required before a certificate can be issued.

Motor mechanics may specialise as brake mechanics, and automotive air-conditioning mechanics. For more details, see separate entries for these occupations. They may also specialise as breakdown service patrol officers who give emergency mechanical assistance to members of an Automobile Association.

Motor mechanics work mainly in workshops and wear protective clothing. They need to keep up with changes in motor industry technology.

With the changes in automotive technology, there are now more electronic controls and computers fitted to vehicles. As a result, motor mechanics are becoming more specialised in their areas of work.

Motor mechanics may progress to positions such as service manager, service advisers, technical sales representative, technical officer or diagnostic specialist.

Personal Requirements:

• Able to work with hand tools
• Able to read and interpret technical information from service manuals
• Problem-solving skills
• Physical fitness
• Normal eyesight and hearing
• Driver's licence is essential

Related Jobs:

• Automotive Electrician
• Light Engine Mechanic
• Mechanical Engineering Technician
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Education and Training:

Entry to this job usually requires the completion of an automotive services New Apprenticeship in motor mechanics. The length of your training can vary and may be undertaken on or off the job. Entry requirements may vary, but generally require the successful completion of Year 10.

Additional Information:

Motor mechanics who have advanced academic qualifications may become technical officers or technicians with the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce or the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria.

Employment Opportunities:

Motor mechanics are employed mainly by new motor vehicle dealers, repairers and service stations. They also work for authorities concerned with defence, communications, energy supply, public works and transport; and for private firms with large fleets of vehicles.
Motor mechanics working for large private firm’s service fleet vehicles and those working for specialist firms service a particular part or make of vehicle. Some work in the testing sections of vehicle manufacturing firms.
Some mechanics establish their own business. Promotion to supervisory positions is possible in large workshops.

The demand for motor mechanics depends on:

• The number of registered motor vehicles
• Technological changes to vehicle systems
• The age of motor vehicles used on the road
• The amount of motor vehicle usage.

Although employment prospects are good, there is strong competition for New Apprenticeships.
Competent tradespeople may upgrade their qualifications to the technician, associate, technologist or engineer level.

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Plumber

Description

Plumbers lay out, test and maintain pipes, fixtures, metal roofing, fittings, gas meters and regulators. They install equipment such as boilers, pumps, heating and cooling systems, natural gas appliances, water tanks, water heaters and solar water heating systems.

Plumbers may perform the following tasks:

• Prepare and/or study drawings and specifications to work out the layout of plumbing systems and materials needed
• Find and mark position for connections, then cut holes through walls and floors to accommodate pipes, measure pipes and mark cutting or bending lines
• Cut, thread and bend pipes, assemble and install piping, valves and fittings, join pipe sections and secure pipes
• Test lines as required by local plumbing regulations
• Install plumbing fixtures such as toilets, wash basins and industrial processing units
• Maintain and repair plumbing systems.

The term plumber is often used in a general sense to cover a wide range of work including water supply and sanitary systems, drainage, gasfitting, LP gas, roof plumbing, sprinkler systems, irrigation systems and associated work in heating and ventilation systems. Some categories of work such as gasfitting and LP gas are specialist areas and a plumber must be specifically licensed to operate in these fields. In other cases a plumber may be licensed to perform a limited range of services.

Subject to licensing restrictions plumbers may perform all of the tasks listed above, or specialise in one area such as:

Drainers

• Install, maintain and repair pipes in storm water or sewerage systems and drains, and install septic tanks, holding wells, sullage pits and absorption tracks.

Gasfitters

• Install, maintain, test and repair gas lines, meters, regulators, units and appliances.

Heating and Ventilation Plumbers

• Install and service heating and cooling systems.

Roofing Plumbers

• Install and fix metal roofs, flashings, gutters and down pipes.

Sprinkler Fitters

• Install and maintain fire protection systems.

Irrigation Installers

• Plan, design and install large watering systems for such environments as golf courses and parks.

Personal Requirements:

• Ability to work with your hands
• Ability to work at heights and in various weather conditions
• Good physical fitness

Related Jobs:

• Bricklayer
• Carpenter/Joiner
• Concrete Worker
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Associate

Education and Training:

Entry to this job requires the completion of a New Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Gasfitting. The length of training can vary, and training may be undertaken on or off the job. Entry requirements may vary, but generally include at least the successful completion of Year 10.

Additional Information:

Plumbers must be registered with the Plumbers, Plumbing Industry Board of Victoria. There are six separate areas of plumbing for which the board provides registration: gasfitting; mechanical services; roofing; sanitary plumbing; water supply; and drainage.
Registered plumbers, who do not hold endorsements must work under the supervision of a plumber, licensed (endorsed) in the classes of plumbing being performed.
Post-trade courses are available which allow plumbers to specialise within certain areas. Check with the institutions for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Employment prospects are fair. The industry is dominated by small firms and self-employed tradespeople. Plumbers may also work for federal or state government departments concerned with public works. With suitable experience there is the opportunity to start your own business.
Competition is strong for available New Apprenticeship positions. Plumbers may advance to become supervisors or managers of plumbing firms, technical or sales representatives to manufacturers or distributors of plumbing hardware.
Demand is linked with activity in the construction industry. However, unlike other building trades, downturns in building activity have less effect on plumbers because of the work available in renovation and maintenance. Demand is also more stable because, by law, certain jobs must be performed by plumbers.