Do you have strong technical skills and enjoy working with your hands?
If so, working as a fitter could be perfect for you. This job usually involves fitting, fabricating, and assembling the components of mechanical systems.
There are several different types of fitters, and you need to have specialist knowledge to do this job. You are also probably going to be responsible for repairing and servicing different types of machinery.
To find out if this job could be the perfect fit for you, check out my in-depth…
Fitter Job Description
A typical job description should begin by outlining the nature of the work and the working environment. It should be clear the type of fitter the employer is looking for and where you would be expected to work. There should also be an overview of the work schedule and the base salary for this role.
The job description will continue by outlining the typical duties that go with this job. It will explain the education, training, and experience that candidates need to have. There should also be details of any special skills and attributes that the employer is looking for.
Duties And Responsibilities
The tasks you will have to complete will depend on the type of fitter role you are doing. Tasks vary from role to role as well as with the company you are working for. So, let’s take a look at some of the main duties and responsibilities you are likely to be charged with.
Analyzing Blueprints
You need to be able to read and interpret blueprints for structural systems. This will help you work out the specifications of the components that need to be constructed. You must also be able to create clear blueprints that can be read by other people.
Constructing Structural Components
You need to be able to use raw materials to construct structural components, fusing these components together. You also need to be able to use other types of power tools to cut the components to the right size.
Inspecting Structural Systems
You need to follow both local and state building codes to the letter when making inspections. It is important to make sure that everything meets the specified standards.
Fitting Structural Components Together
You need to be able to create a finished system that is ready to use. Do this by constructing components while using blueprints as a guide. You will assemble the components to create a complete structure.
Troubleshooting and Repairing Malfunctioning Systems
You will regularly run rests on different structural systems to work out the main cause of the failure. Once you have worked out the issue, you need to develop a plan of action. You will have to conduct diagnostic testing on failing systems and be able to repair them most efficiently.
Performing Regular System Maintenance
You will need to create and follow maintenance schedules and procedures for different systems. This helps to make sure the systems remain fully functioning. When necessary, you will need to replace damaged structures.
Record Keeping
You need to keep accurate records of all the maintenance work you have performed. The log should be clear and easy for other fitters to understand. It may also need to include details of recommendations for future repair.
Skills and Attributes
You need to have specialist skills and the knowledge to perform different fitter tasks. You also need certain soft skills to work well with other people. Here are some of the key skills and attributes a successful fitter needs to have.
Mechanical skills
It is essential to know which tools to use for different tasks and be able to operate those tools well. You also need to have a deep knowledge of computer-aided design software to create and read blueprints.
Teamwork
You will usually work under the direction of a project foreman and have to follow instructions well. You are likely to have to collaborate with other fitters on large construction projects. It is essential to be able to work well with your colleagues and be able to resolve any issues smoothly.
Focus
You need to be able to concentrate on repetitive tasks for long periods. This work often involves using potentially dangerous hand tools. Any lapse in concentration could result in a serious injury.
Physical fitness
This job can be physically demanding, and you need to be able to stand for several hours at a time. You may also need to access components set several feet off the ground and in other hard-to-reach areas. You’ll also need to be able to lift heavy objects and have a lot of stamina.
The Working Environment
You will usually work in a factory setting or on a construction site. Most fitters work around forty hours a week. However, you will often work a range of shift patterns, including nights and during weekends.
You also need to be prepared to be on call in case a serious problem arises. This job involves a lot of physical work and can be tiring at times. Because the working environment is often hazardous, it is essential to strictly follow all safety protocols.
Education and Training
This job is usually open to people who hold a high school diploma or a GED. However, you will need to have proven experience working as a fitter. You will also need to gain the necessary state certification before you start working independently.
Apprenticeship
The best way to gain the necessary skills and experience is to join an apprenticeship program. This combines community college or trade school with special on-the-job experience.
At the end of the course, you will be provided with certification that allows you to start working. The exact certification you need will depend on the type of fitter you want to be.
Training courses
There is a wide range of different types of courses to choose from. It is important to consider the area you want to specialize in and choose a course that matches this. Here are some of the main courses you can choose from and what they offer.
Drafting and Sketching Course
This course is designed for pipefitters and teaches the basics of drafting along with the correct drawing tools. It includes hands-on experience sketching the common pipe, water, and ventilation system layouts. You will also gain experience using accurate dimensions to draw images.
Blueprint Reading Course
Reading and creating blueprints is a key part of most roles, and this course teaches basic skills. You will learn how to interpret architectural and engineering symbols as well as abbreviations. This course also includes practical experience drawing isometric and orthographic sketches.
Pipe Welding Course
You will be taken through the basics of welding in this special course. Before you gain practical experience, you will be taken through setup and safety procedures. You will then gain practice welding, pipe cutting, and arc welding.
Hydraulics Course
This special course will teach you the physics of hydraulic systems. It covers the basics of hydraulics, including fluid types, pressure, force, and system functions. You will also learn how to troubleshoot and repair systems, use pumps and valves, and control airflow.
Why Not Work In Construction?
If you love the outdoors and working with your hands, check out our Construction Worker Job Description, Construction Laborer Job Description, and Construction Superintendent Job Description to find out what these positions would entail. If you are interested, I have my Halliburton Construction Application and my KBR Construction Application if you’d like to apply!
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Final Thoughts
The starting salary for a fitter is around $30,000 per year. However, after a few years, you can expect to earn around $50,000 per year. If you are especially skilled and have a lot of experience, you could easily earn up to $90,000 per year.
Specializing in a particular field is a good way to gain access to a higher-paying job. One of the most popular options is working as a pipefitter. While some options may require special certification, the payoff is an enhanced earning potential and job satisfaction.
All the very best getting a job as a Fitter!
