itters are responsible for the maintenance, repair and manufacture of metal products and machinery. Fitters in the minerals industry can specialise in the following areas:
- Diesel and heavy earthmoving equipment fitters “� Diagnose problems, repair, overhaul, tune, maintain and test heavy duty mobile equipment used on site;
- Instrument fitters “� Assemble, calibrate, install and commission precision instruments that measure, indicate, transmit, record and control;
- Mechanical Fitters “� Service and repair brakes, engines, transmissions and suspension components;
- Fixed plant fitter “� Overhaul pumps, install pumps, repair ball and rod mills, repair crushers, install plant and equipment;
- Electrical Fitter “� Making, fitting or repairing electrical machines and instruments;
As a fitter you must be able to:
- 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;
- Manufacture, repair and maintain equipment, and
- Identify faulty equipment
Skills needed:
- the ability to work under pressure;
- the ability to work on multiple tasks at the same time;
- the ability to prioritise critical tasks and cope with changing priorities;
- the ability to concentrate for long periods;
- excellent verbal communication skills;
- the ability to coordinate team activities;
- reliable, responsible, able to maintain alertness, must be assertive, and
- knowledge of plant and safety awareness, commitment to company values.
Wages
HD Fitter: $70,000 “� $140,000+ Mechanical Fitter: $70,000 “� $100,000 Source: www.hays.com.au (July 2008)
Qualification
Entry is generally through an AQF Certificate III or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification.