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Machinist Courses

A Machinist operates machinery to create, fit, and verify metal parts, ensuring precision, problem-solving, and teamwork in various locations.

AI Exposure

Low More information

Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.

Shortage in

  • NSW
  • VIC
  • QLD
  • WA
  • SA
  • TAS
  • ACT
  • NT

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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How do I become a Machinist

Get qualified to work as a Machinist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

MEM40119

Certificate IV in Engineering

Estimated fee

$2,250

Duration

6 weeks - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

Become a trade qualified engineer with the MEM40119 Certificate IV in Engineering. This nationally recognised training course begins with basic engineering trade skills: reading technical drawings, taking engineering measurements, performing computations, working safely in engineering, planning and completing work tasks, using hand tools and computing technologies. You’ll then begin ferrous (and non-ferrous) melting and casting operations, testing foundry related materials, advanced welding to code standa...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$2,250

Duration

6 weeks - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

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MEM30219

Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (Fitting/Machining Trade)

Estimated fee

$2,825

Duration

12 months - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

Become a mechanical fitter and machinist with the MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (Fitting/Machining Trade). This nationally recognised qualification is part of an engineering trade apprenticeship and is delivered under the guidance of a qualified tradesperson. During your studies you’ll gain the foundational skills of engineering work (measurements, computations, tools, computer technologies, safety). You’ll also learn how to operate a range of machines and precision tools. Gra...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$2,825

Duration

12 months - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

Find a provider

MEM50119

Diploma of Engineering – Advanced Trade

Estimated fee

$1,401

Duration

12 months - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

If you’re a qualified engineer and wanting to expand your skillset and employability why not enrol in the Diploma of Engineering – Advanced Trade (MEM50119). Over 2 years you will be honing your skills in technical drawing, graphical techniques, interpreting technical specifications and manuals — plus using the latest computing technologies. Graduates of this nationally recognised training course will be eligible for employment as an Advanced Engineering Tradesperson – Level II. Enquire now for the list o...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$1,401

Duration

12 months - 4 years

Study mode

Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

Find a provider
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Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Machinist.

Common questions

How much does a Machinist earn?

In Australia, a full time Machinist generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for a Machinist?

The number of people working as a Machinist has remained stable in recent years. There are currently 118,200 in this role in Australia compared to 120,900 five years ago. Machinists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Machinist?

To become a Machinist, consider the Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade. This course will give you the basic skills to get started in a manufacturing or engineering environment. You could also consider a Certificate IV in Engineering (Instrumentation) or a Certificate IV in Engineering (Maintenance).

Choose a field of study

Engineering

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More information

A Machinist uses specialist machinery to create metal parts for a range of equipment. You’ll use technical drawings or set specifications to set up your machinery and create parts as prescribed. You may also fit them into equipment to make sure they work effectively. Machinists might use a range of techniques from pressing and cutting to drilling, planning and grinding.

Machinists need to have excellent problem solving skills and be able to analyse situations to find the best solution. You’ll need excellent attention to detail and should be highly skilled in your work. Machinists may work in a set location or might have to travel to other places where machinery is located. It’s important you can follow directions and work as part of a team.

 

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