Plant mechanic

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Plant mechanic

Plant mechanics repair and maintain industrial, agricultural, construction and mining equipment. Plant mechanics use a range of tools to diagnose the faults in plant machinery and determine what repairs need to be made. They do this maintenance on a range of machinery to minimise downtime and meet maintenance schedules.

Working conditions

Plant mechanics work in a broad range of environments, from iron ore mines in the Pilbara to the Kwinana oil refinery. Working conditions tend to be noisy, dirty and at times dangerous. Plant mechanics must therefore be aware of safety regulations and wear and use personal protective equipment (PPE). They spend a majority of their day standing but must also be prepared to bend, crouch or climb for extended periods.

Tools and technologies

Plant mechanics use computerised diagnostic equipment to test machines. If any faults are found they may be required to use equipment manuals, hand and power tools such as spanners, sockets, screwdrivers, drills, welding and cutting equipment and lifting gear.

Plant mechanics are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and earmuffs, as their work can be dangerous.

Education and training

To become a plant mechanic, you usually need to undertake an apprenticeship in engineering tradesperson mechanical (plant mechanic). The apprenticeship usually takes 42 to 48 months to complete, and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.

Related courses

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Apprenticeships and traineeships

As an apprentice or trainee, you are employed and get paid while you complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You'll do a combination of on the job training - gaining hands on skills, knowledge and experience - and structured training with a registered training provider such as TAFE. 

You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.

Find out more about apprenticeships and traineeships

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The information presented on the occupation profiles within this website is offered as a guide only.