• Reading diagrams and schematic drawings to determine work procedures
• Maintaining and repairing stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment
• Cleaning, lubricating, and performing other routine maintenance work on machinery
• Operating hoisting and lifting devices, as necessary, during machinery repairs; using welding equipment, hand tools, and power tools as required
• Working independently and with others to solve mechanical and technical problems
• Effectively communicating, persuading, and explaining to others what needs to be done
• Working accurately with numbers and, on occasion, doing basic drawings of machine parts

• Secondary school diploma required; credits in math and physics are recommended
• Completion of a 7,280-hour apprenticeship, including a combination of on-the-job and in-school training
• Completion of exam to obtain Certificate of Qualification

• Generally 40 hours/week in shifts
• Indoor work, often in industrial plants or commercial buildings
• Knowledge of computers and programmable logic controllers improve job opportunities
• Employment industries include primary steel producers, vehicle manufacturers, machinery and equipment manufacturers, and mining companies

Apprentice wage increases with skills and expertise. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $20.00-$30.00 per hour.