Industrial Machinery Mechanic

Job Description:

Industrial machinery mechanics repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery.

Job Category:
Engineering & Construction
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What you will do:

Your day-to-day will include tasks such as:

  • recording parts or materials used
  • ordering new parts or materials as necessary
  • cleaning, lubricating, or adjusting equipment and machinery
  • repairing or replacing broken or malfunctioning components of machinery or equipment; studying blueprints or manufacturers’ manuals to determine the correct installation or operation of machinery
  • examining parts for defects, such as breakage or excessive wear
  • observing and testing the operation of machinery or equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using voltmeters or other testing devices
  • repairing or replace broken or malfunctioning components of machinery or equipment

If you choose to specialise in a specific type of machinery, your day-to-day tasks might differ. For example, if you specialise as a wind turbine service technician, they might include:

  • assisting in the assembly of individual wind generators or construction of wind farms
  • training end-users, distributors, installers, or other technicians in wind commissioning, testing, or other technical procedures. Inspect or repair fibreglass turbine blades.
  • inspecting or repairing fibreglass turbine blades
  • testing structures, controls, or mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical systems, according to test plans or in coordination with engineers
  • climbing wind turbine towers to inspect, maintain, or repair equipment

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • maths knowledge
  • design skills and knowledge (creativity)
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

As well as:

  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

Becoming an Industrial Machinery Mechanic, also known as an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, typically involves a combination of education, technical skills, and hands-on experience. While there isn’t a strict set of GCSE subjects that are absolutely required, certain subjects can provide a strong foundation for pursuing a career in this field, such as:

  1. Mathematics: Mathematics is crucial for understanding measurements, calculations, and technical specifications related to machinery. Mechanics often involve precise measurements and mathematical concepts.
  2. Design and Technology (D&T): D&T courses can help develop problem-solving skills, practical skills, and an understanding of machinery, materials, and processes.
  3. Physics: Physics provides insights into various mechanical principles, such as force, motion, and energy. Understanding these principles can be valuable when working with industrial machinery.
  4. Science Subjects (Mechanics/Engineering Focus): If your school offers any science subjects with a focus on mechanics or engineering principles, such as Applied Science or Engineering, taking these courses could provide relevant knowledge.
  5. Information Technology (IT): In today’s industrial settings, technology is often integrated into machinery and equipment. Some knowledge of IT can be useful for understanding digital controls and systems.
  6. English: Effective communication skills are important in any profession, including industrial machinery mechanics. Clear communication is essential when interacting with colleagues and documenting maintenance procedures.
  7. Business Studies (Optional): While not directly related, having some knowledge of business concepts can be valuable if you plan to work as a maintenance mechanic in a business or industrial setting.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • a university degree
  • an apprenticeship

College

You could start by taking a course that will give you some of the skills needed for a trainee job after you finish. In the UK, for example, courses include:

  • Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance
  • Diploma in Construction Plant or Machinery Maintenance
  • Diploma in Plant Maintenance

University

You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a relevant subject, such as:

  • renewable energy engineering
  • electrical or mechanical engineering
  • electrical power engineering

Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in a subject such as:

  • mechanical engineering
  • electrical engineering
  • maintenance engineering technology
  • construction civil engineering
  • engineering technician
  • manufacturing engineering: wind generation

Working Hours and Environment:

You’ll normally work 37 to 40 hours, 5 days a week. Shift work and overtime are common and you may be on-call to deal with emergencies.

You could be based in a factory or production plant. You might also work in shopping centres or office blocks.

You’ll wear protective clothing including overalls, a hard hat and safety boots.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could progress to:

  • construction plant technician
  • technical service representative
  • site supervisor
  • site manager
  • authorised technician, with responsibility for supervising a technical team, and dealing with health and safety
  • operations and maintenance manager
  • control systems engineer
  • energy engineer.

You could also set up your own business.

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