What is a Diesel Fitter?
A Diesel Fitter is a mechanic who specialises in the repair and maintenance of heavy vehicles, mining, plant or agricultural equipment. They inspect engines, diagnose and repair faults, perform routine maintenance and dismantle and reassemble engines and other components. The work may also involve the repair, servicing and maintenance of large marine engines, heavy lift vehicles, cranes and gantries and stationary plant equipment.
Examples of tasks and duties:
- Diagnose problems
- Test, repair or replace diesel fuel systems, engines, cooling components
- Service and repair all components of the hydraulic systems
- Repair and service manual and automatic gearboxes and transmissions
- Carry out routine services including checking and renewing all relevant fluids
- Use a wide range of hand tools and electrical/air power tools
- Use welding equipment, lathes and a variety of specialised equipment
How do I get into this trade?
It would be advisable to complete an Automotive Mechanical or an Engineering Pre-Apprenticeship to help you develop entry level skills and knowledge. Solid results in Year 10 English and Maths is required. This Apprenticeship can be commenced by secondary school students in Year 11 or 12.
What does your career prospect look like?
Once you have completed your Engineering Mechanical Trade (Maintenance – Diesel Fitting) Apprenticeship, you can work in a large workshop or as a Field Service Technician for an employer or as a Sub-Contractor. You might also consider working as a FIFO Tradesperson.
Things to consider:
