Metal Engineering Process Worker

Forge the future of manufacturing as a Metal Engineering Process Worker.

In this dynamic role, you’ll be at the heart of metal fabrication, shaping raw materials into precision-engineered products. Your hands-on expertise will drive production lines, operate cutting-edge machinery, and bring technical drawings to life. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to see your hard work transformed into tangible, world-class metal products.

Metal Engineering Process Workers are responsible for performing routine tasks in the manufacturing of metal products. They operate in various industrial environments, including factories, workshops, and production plants, where they contribute to the assembly, processing, and finishing of metal components and products. 

These workers are involved in multiple stages of the manufacturing process, from initial assembly to final product completion. They work with a range of tools and equipment, including hand tools, power tools, and specialised machinery, to carry out tasks such as positioning, holding, and manipulating metal products. Their role is essential in maintaining the smooth flow of production lines and ensuring that metal products meet the required specifications and quality standards. 

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Perform assembly and dismantling operations, including screwing and bolting components together.
  2. Operate material-specific tools to carry out tasks required for final product production.
  3. Conduct soldering and spot welding of components using electrical spot- and butt-welding machines.
  4. Perform basic quality checks on finished products to ensure they meet specifications.
  5. Assist skilled tradespersons in operating and maintaining metal processing equipment.

Becoming a metal engineering process worker typically doesn’t require formal qualifications to start, but having relevant skills and certifications can significantly enhance job prospects and career progression. A traineeship is available, and on-the-job training is common in this field. Here are some steps to become metal engineering process worker: 

  1. Complete Year 12 or equivalent education, with a focus on maths and technical subjects 
  2. Consider completing a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways while at school
  3. Obtain relevant certifications (e.g., forklift) 
  4. Gain entry-level experience in manufacturing or production environments, and apply for roles offering a traineeship Certificate II in Engineering – Production Technology (MEM20219)
Also Known As:
  • Boilermaker's Assistant
  • Fitter's Assistant
  • Metal Moulder's Assistant
  • Metal Forger's Assistant
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a metal engineering process worker include:

  • Blueprint interpretation
  • Problem solving
  • Safety awareness
  • Teamwork
  • Technical proficiency
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a metal engineering process worker include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Physical stamina
  • Reliable
  • Adaptable
  • Initiative
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Engineering Skills
  • Furnishing Skills
  • Industrial Technology Skills
  • Science in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a metal engineering process worker can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$60,000
Median
$72,000
High
$88,000

A traineeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment as a Metal Engineering Process Worker. You can undertake the following qualifications as traineeships:

  • Certificate II in Engineering – Production Technology (MEM20219)

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

Duration: Traineeships typically last between 12 to 24 months, depending on the specific program and whether you are working full-time or part-time.

Work and study combination: As a trainee, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Eligibility: Generally, traineeships do not require 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.

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

Skills, qualifications, accreditations and licences

Metal Engineering Process Workers may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions. Advanced qualifications for this position may include:

  • Certificate III in Engineering – Production Systems (MEM30119)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Electronic Trade (MEM30422)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Technical (MEM30522)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Composites Trade (MEM31119)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Industrial Electrician (MEM31219)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic (MEM31419)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Toolmaking Trade (MEM31519)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Patternmaking Trade (MEM31622)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Casting and Moulding Trade (MEM31719)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Textile Mechanic (MEM31822)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM31922)

Holding a degree in human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Undertaking higher level learning at an undergraduate or graduate level in an engineering field would support deeper learning of technical concepts and theories, and support career advancement.

Career progression

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

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry