Fits and assembles metal parts and sub-assemblies to fabricate production machines and other equipment.

Determines suitable material, method and sequence of operations and machine settings; fits fabricated metal parts and assembles them; checks metal parts for accuracy, clearance and fit; sets guides, stops and other controls on machining tools, sets up prescribed cutting and shaping tools and dies in machines and presses, and sets controls for textile machines; forms metal stock and castings to press, cut, grind, plane, bore and drill metal; cuts, threads, bends and installs hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines; prepares pattern mechanisms to control the operation of textile machines used to spin, weave, knit, sew and tuft fabric; performs maintenance of machines, mechanical parts and fluid power equipment; may erect machines and equipment.

• Works indoors, usually in adequately heated and ventilated spaces. Outdoor work is also likely, and is carried out in all weathers. Work sites will often be noisy and dirty.
• Frequently works on, in and under the particular type of machinery being serviced. May work in confined spaces or under hoists.
• Uses personal protective equipment including eye, ear and foot protection.

• Physical demand is up to very heavy.
• Standing is constantly required, often on concrete floors and at workbenches. Sitting is not required. Walking is frequently required.
• Stretching up and across, bending and lifting, carrying and holding are frequently required. Squatting, crouching or kneeling and twisting of the body or neck are occasionally required.
• Repetitive movements are frequently required especially in the use of hands and arms for screwing, holding and tightening, but power tools are often used.
• Employees use a range of welding and general engineering hand, power and machine tools and equipment, specialised mechanical equipment, including electronic engine and other testing/ tuning equipment and a range or spanners, gauges, screwdrivers and socket sets.
• Driving is not required.
• Mental skills include technical, problem-solving and decision-making.

A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.