Studies drawings and specifications to determine suitable material, method and sequence of operations and machine settings; fits fabricated metal parts into products and assembles metal parts and sub-assemblies to produce machines and equipment; checks fabricated and assembled metal parts for accuracy, clearance and fit using precision measuring instruments; 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 fine tolerance using machining tools to press, cut, grind, plane, bore and drill metal; cuts, threads, bends and installs hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines; diagnoses faults and performs operational maintenance of machines, and overhauls and repairs mechanical parts and fluid power equipment; may erect machines and equipment on-site.

• Works indoors in an engineering workshop or may be predominantly out on client worksites such as commercial and industrial construction sites or on boats.
• Indoor work spaces are likely to be well ventilated to disperse gasses and other by-products of welding and other metal-working processes.
• Worksites may be dirty and dusty and noisy.
• Employees may use a variety of personal protective equipment including face masks, eye protection, safety footwear, over-alls and gloves as appropriate for specific tasks.

• The physical demand is in the medium to heavy range.
• Standing is constantly required, frequently on concrete floors. Sitting is not required. Walking is frequently required.
• Stretching up, across and under may be required on an occasional to frequent basis. Squatting, crouching or kneeling is occasionally required. Twisting of the body or neck, bending, and lifting and carrying is frequently required.
• Repetitive movements are frequently required especially in the use of hands and arms for holding welding, flame-cutting or grinding equipment.
• Driving is not a significant component of this job.
• A wide range of engineering hand, power and machine tools and equipment is frequently used.
• Mental skills necessary include practical, technical and problem-solving skills.

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.