Belt Splicer

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Keep industry moving in this specialist role.

As a Belt Splicer, you’ll be the vital link in the chain of production, ensuring that conveyor belts run smoothly across various sectors. It’s time to buckle up for a career that truly holds things together.

Belt Splicers are specialised technicians who play a critical role in maintaining and repairing conveyor belt systems across a wide range of industries, including mining, manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture. Their expertise ensures the continuous operation of conveyor systems, which are essential for efficient material handling and production processes.

These skilled professionals are adept at joining (splicing) sections of belting material to create continuous loops or to repair damaged belts. They work with various types of belting materials, including rubber, PVC, and fabric, each requiring specific techniques and tools. Belt Splicers must have a deep understanding of belt construction, material properties, and the mechanical stresses that belts endure during operation.

A typical day for a Belt Splicer might involve inspecting conveyor systems for wear and damage, preparing belt ends for splicing, applying adhesives or mechanical fasteners, and testing the integrity of completed splices. They often work in challenging environments, from underground mines to outdoor quarries, and must be prepared to respond quickly to emergency repair situations to minimise costly downtime.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Inspect and assess conveyor belts for damage or wear
  2. Prepare belt ends for splicing using specialised tools
  3. Join belt sections using appropriate splicing techniques (hot vulcanisation, cold bonding, or mechanical fastening)
  4. Install and adjust belt cleaners, trackers, and other conveyor components
  5. Provide preventive maintenance and emergency repair services

Becoming a Belt Splicer doesn’t always require a formal qualification to start, but specialised training and certifications are highly valued in the industry. Here’s a pathway to enter this occupation:

  1.  Complete high school, focusing on subjects like mathematics, physics, and industrial technology
  2. Gain basic mechanical experience through entry-level jobs in manufacturing or maintenance
  3. Seek on-the-job training opportunities with conveyor belt manufacturers or service companies including undertaking a Certificate II in Polymer Processing (PMB20121)
  4. Look online for advertised positions or search for employers. Even if an employer isn’t advertising consider sending them a letter and your resume expressing an interest to work in the industry.
  5. Consider obtaining certifications and high-risk licences, e.g. working in confined spaces, working at heights, forklift, dogging, rigging
  6. Consider additional qualifications in industrial maintenance or mechanical engineering for career advancement
Also Known As:
  • Conveyor Belt Technician
  • Industrial Belt Joiner
  • Belt Repair Specialist
  • Conveyor System Technician
  • Belt Maintenance Expert
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a belt splicer include:

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Problem solving
  • Safety conscious
  • Technical proficiency
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a belt splicer include:

  • Reliable
  • Adaptable
  • Physical endurance
  • Attention to detail
  • Team Player
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Chemistry
  • Engineering
  • Industrial Technology Skills
  • Science in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Engineering Skills
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Belt Splicer can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$65,000
Median
$80,000
High
$100,000

Whether you’re starting your journey or looking to upskill, there are multiple entry points and career progression opportunities available through vocational education and training.

You may want to pursue a qualification to deepen your expertise. The following qualification/s can be completed as an apprenticeship:

  • Certificate III in Polymer Processing (PMB30121)

A range of specialisations exist for this qualification, including blow moulding, blown film, composites, conveyor belt maintenance and repair, conveyor belt manufacture, extrusion, plastic fabrication, injection moulding, polyurethane, rotational moulding, and rubber lining.

As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last up to four years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and study combination: As an apprentice, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

Advancing Your Career

Choosing to advance your career offers exciting opportunities for growth and specialisation. As you gain experience and skills through entry-level positions or initial qualifications, you can explore higher-level vocational education and training options to elevate your expertise. These qualifications can open doors to senior roles allowing you to take on more responsibility, as well as offering a foundation for further education.

To advance your career, or deepen your knowledge in this industry, consider the following qualifications:

  • Certificate IV in Polymer Technology (PMB40121)
  • Diploma of Polymer Technology (PMB50121)

While university education is not typically required for Belt Splicers, it can open doors to advanced roles in engineering, design, or management within the conveyor belt industry. Relevant university programs include:

  • Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)

These programs provide a comprehensive understanding of mechanical systems, materials science, and industrial processes. Graduates may find opportunities in conveyor system design, industrial automation, or management roles overseeing maintenance and repair operations in large-scale industrial settings.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Senior Composites Technician
Senior Composites Technician

Senior Composites Technicians are at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, specialising in the creation and manipulation of composite materials.

– Up to $120,000 salary

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Production Planner
Production Planner

Production Planners are the strategic minds behind manufacturing operations, ensuring that production processes run smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule.

– Up to $65,000 salary

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Technical Manager
Technical Manager

Technical Managers are the key drivers of technological innovation and implementation within organisations.

– Up to $65,000 salary

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Operations Manager
Operations Manager

As an Operations Manager in manufacturing, you’ll be at the helm of production processes, aligning resources, technology, and personnel to achieve operational excellence.

– Up to $135,000 salary

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Explore the polymers, plastics and rubber industry

The polymers, plastic and rubber field is a versatile and innovative sector that plays a crucial role in manufacturing and everyday life. From packaging materials to high-performance components, this industry produces a wide range of products that are essential to numerous sectors of the economy, including construction, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods.

Polymers, plastics and rubber industry
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