Jobs, Careers and Occupations

Mechanics

Mechanic Nature of Work

Mechanics install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair industrial machinery and mechanical equipment.

Mechanics are employed in manufacturing plants, utilities and other industrial establishments.

Mechanics may be cross-trained in a second trade such as pipefitting, welding, machining or electrical maintenance.

Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience

Mechanic Work Conditions

Mechanics working environment varies, depending on the type of job. They may work outdoors in difficult weather conditions. Mechanics may have to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects and work in uncomfortably hot or cold environments, in awkward and cramped positions. Mechanics may also be required to work at heights on masts, towers and roofs or on ladders. They are subject to electrical shock, burns, falls, cuts and bruises, so they use protective equipment to avoid common hazards. For example, protective devices, such as safety belts, protective glasses and hardhats may be worn to prevent injuries from falling objects or machinery.

Mechanic Personal Requirements

• Able to do precise and detailed work
• Able to work as part of a team
• Able to work independently
• Diagnostic ability
• Enjoy mathematical and technical activities
• Good communication skills
• Good eyesight and normal color vision
• Mechanical aptitude - enjoy practical and manual work
• No skin allergies or reactions to grease, oil or petrol
• Physically fit
• Practical and good hand-eye coordination

Mechanic Employment Requirements

• Completion of secondary school is usually required
• Completion of a three- to four-year apprenticeship program
  or
  A combination of over five years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in industrial machinery repair or millwrighting is usually required to be eligible for trade certification
• Trade certification is usually required

Mechanics Duties and Tasks

Mechanics may perform some or all of the following duties and tasks:

• Install, align, assemble or dismantle, clean, lubricate, move, troubleshoot, inspect, examine, maintain, adjust and repair or replace defective parts of power transmission, vacuum, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, machinery and mechanical equipment, such as pumps, fans, tanks, conveyors, furnaces and generators using hand and power tools, and welding equipment
• Keep records of work performed
• Operate hoisting and lifting devices such as cranes, jacks and tractors to position machinery and parts during the installation, set-up and repair of machinery
• Operate machine tools such as lathes and grinders to fabricate parts required during overhaul, maintenance or set-up of machinery
• Read blueprints, diagrams and schematic drawings to determine work procedures

Mechanic Example Titles

• Fitter
• Industrial Mechanic
• Industrial Mechanic Apprentice
• Maintenance Millwright
• Millwright
• Millwright Apprentice
• Plant Equipment Mechanic
• Treatment Plant Mechanic

Mechanic Related Occupations

• Diesel Mechanics
• Electricians
• Fitters
• Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics
• Machinists
• Mechanics
• Millwrights
• Pipefitters
• Truck Mechanic
• Welders

Engineering Related Industries

• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Design
• Mining
• Oil and Gas
• Pulp and Paper
• Quality Control
• Telecom