Postcode:
Resident:
Employed:
A Metal Worker makes parts and products from metal including steel, iron, aluminium and copper. You might cut and shape metal and piece it together using a range of techniques. Metal Workers often use templates for their work but you might also use provided specifications or come up with your own designs. Your role might also involve assembling and fitting metal parts, finishing metal products or installing pieces on site.
Metal Workers need to have strong attention to detail and be skilled in a range of industry techniques. You’ll need to be able to follow instructions and work as part of a team. Metal Workers should be able to organise their time well and prioritise tasks when required. It’s important that you can interpret specifications and technical drawings.
There are 4 courses available for people who want to become a Metal Worker.
Possible job outcomes:
The MEM20105 Certificate II in Engineering (Heavy Fabrication) delivers a practical skillset in metal fabrication and welding, and will help you get technical roles in a wide range of industries. This nationally recognised training course also serves as a pre-apprenticeship qualification. The course covers: on-the-job safety and OHS standards, applying quality systems and procedures, working in a production and maintenance work crew, carrying out engineering measurements, understanding technical drawings, using hand tools, mechanical cutting and a range of welding techniques. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, graduation competencies, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
The Certificate II in Engineering MEM20105 is ideal for trade apprentices and metal engineering process workers needing hands-on skills in metal arc welding, tungsten arc welding, and manual heating/thermal cutting. The course also teaches students how to perform computations and engineering measurements. Enquire today to check your eligibility requirements and for funding opportunities..
The Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219) is for trade apprentices (fitters and turners, toolmakers, metal machinists) or anyone needing an entry point into mechanical engineering. It’s a nationally recognised qualification that will teach you how to work in a manufacturing or engineering environment — performing complex measurements and working to quality standards. Enquire now for information about career outcomes and opportunities for enrolment..
Average duration: 12 months.
The Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (MEM30319) is the qualification for trade apprentices working under qualified boilermakers or welders. Completed over 12 months, this nationally recognised training course teaches professional level mechanical cutting, metal fabrication, and a wide range of welding processes. Students gain proficiency using hand tools, industrial machinery, taking measurements and performing calculations. Graduate ready to become a licensed tradesperson. Enquire now for more information about enrolling an apprentice or trainee in the course and the opportunity for government subsidised training..
In Australia, a full time Metal Worker generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 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.
The number of people working in this industry has fallen in recent years. There are currently 5,500 people employed as a Metal Worker in Australia compared to 8,400 five years ago. Metal Workers may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
To become a Metal Worker, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade where you’ll learn a range of mechanical cutting, metal fabrication and welding processes. You could also consider a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade or a Certificate IV in Engineering (Foundry Technology).
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within metalworking. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Metalworking
Apprentice Engineer
$960 weekly pay
Engineering Tradesperson
Blacksmith
$1,250 weekly pay
Boilermaker
Fabricator
Metal Worker
$1,150 weekly pay
Sheet Metal Worker
$1,400 weekly pay
TIG Welder
$1,350 weekly pay
Welder
Welding Instructor
$1,450 weekly pay
Learn more about Metal Worker courses in your area.