Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Tool Fitter

🎯 Role Definition

As a Tool Fitter, you are the backbone of our operational success. You will be entrusted with diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining our diverse fleet of small plant, power tools, and construction equipment. This role requires a hands-on problem-solver with a strong mechanical aptitude and an unwavering commitment to safety and quality. You will work within our workshop and occasionally in the field, ensuring all equipment is in prime condition and ready to meet the demands of our customers' projects. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced technician to apply their skills to a varied range of machinery and contribute to a team-oriented, high-performance environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Mechanical Fitter Apprentice
Workshop Assistant / Trade Assistant
Small Engine Mechanic

Advancement To:

Senior Tool Fitter / Leading Hand
Workshop Supervisor / Foreman
Maintenance Manager / Fleet Manager

Lateral Moves:

Field Service Technician
Heavy Diesel Mechanic
Technical Trainer or Assessor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conduct comprehensive diagnostic tests on a wide variety of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems to accurately identify faults and determine repair requirements.
Perform routine servicing, preventative maintenance, and major repairs on small to medium plant equipment, including generators, compressors, pumps, and access equipment (EWPs).
Execute repairs on 2-stroke, 4-stroke petrol, and diesel engines, ensuring they meet performance and emissions standards.
Strip, inspect, and rebuild complex components such as engines, transmissions, and hydraulic pumps with a high degree of precision.
Utilize diagnostic software and electronic tools to troubleshoot modern, computer-controlled equipment and systems effectively.
Carry out major overhauls and refurbishments of equipment to extend its operational lifespan and maximize return on investment.
Respond to urgent on-site breakdown calls, performing efficient and effective repairs to minimize customer downtime and maintain project schedules.
Maintain an exceptional standard of workmanship across all tasks, ensuring repairs are robust, reliable, and adhere to manufacturer specifications.
Perform welding, fabrication, and machining tasks as needed to repair or create components for equipment.
Test and calibrate all repaired equipment meticulously to guarantee it operates safely and at peak performance before being returned to service.
Read and interpret complex technical manuals, schematics, and engineering blueprints to guide troubleshooting and repair processes.
Complete all job-related documentation, including service reports, job cards, and digital maintenance logs, with accuracy and detail.
Adhere strictly to all company and legislative Workplace Health and Safety (WHS/OH&S) policies, promoting a safe working environment for all.
Conduct thorough pre-delivery inspections (PDIs) and post-hire checks to ensure equipment is clean, functional, and safe for customer use.
Provide expert technical advice and support to customers and internal sales staff regarding the correct operation and capabilities of equipment.

Secondary Functions

Assist the Workshop Manager with the management of spare parts inventory, including sourcing, ordering, and regular stocktaking.
Act as a mentor for apprentices and junior technicians, providing on-the-job training, guidance, and support to foster their development.
Proactively identify opportunities for continuous improvement within workshop processes and equipment reliability, presenting solutions to management.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe personal work area and contribute to the overall tidiness of the workshop.
Actively participate in daily toolbox talks, safety meetings, and training sessions to stay current with best practices and company policies.
Liaise with external suppliers and specialist service providers to coordinate external repairs or source critical components.
Prepare and secure equipment for safe and compliant transportation between the workshop, job sites, and other branches.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

In-depth knowledge and diagnostic proficiency with small petrol and diesel engines.
Strong understanding of hydraulic and pneumatic principles, components, and schematics.
Competency in fault-finding and repairing 12V/24V DC electrical systems.
Proven experience working on a diverse range of construction and industrial equipment (e.g., EWP, light towers, compactors, concrete saws).
Practical welding and metal fabrication skills (MIG/ARC).
Ability to read and accurately interpret technical drawings, service manuals, and electrical/hydraulic diagrams.
Familiarity with using computer-based diagnostic tools and software.
Valid driver's license (manual transmission preferred; heavy vehicle license is a plus).
Formal trade qualification (e.g., Certificate III in Plant Mechanics, Mechanical Fitting, or equivalent).
Knowledge of test and tag procedures for portable electrical equipment.

Soft Skills

Exceptional analytical and diagnostic problem-solving abilities.
Clear and effective communication skills, for liaising with both colleagues and customers.
Ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision and also collaboratively within a team.
A meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
Self-motivated with a proactive approach and a strong, reliable work ethic.
Excellent time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
An unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Strong customer service orientation with the ability to build rapport and trust.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.
Certificate III in a relevant trade (e.g., Mechanical Fitting, Plant Mechanics, Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology).

Preferred Education:

Certificate IV in Engineering or a related discipline.
OEM-specific training certifications (e.g., Genie, JLG, Kubota, Hilti).
High-Risk Work Licenses (e.g., EWP, Forklift).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Plant and Equipment Mechanics
Mechanical Engineering
Automotive / Diesel Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of post-apprenticeship experience as a Tool Fitter, Plant Mechanic, or in a closely related role.

Preferred:

5+ years of dedicated experience within a fast-paced plant and tool hire company, demonstrating expertise across a broad and diverse fleet of equipment.