Earth-moving equipment mechanics specialize in the mechanical work required on heavy machinery used for the construction of highways, dams, airports, pipelines and in mining operations.
They perform routine maintenance on the machinery and, if an operator reports a fault, search for its cause. Equipment is first inspected to see whether the problem can easily be detected. If not, the mechanic partially dismantles the engine to check parts for damage or excessive wear. The necessary repairs are then made, which may also require the organization of replacement parts.
They also repair or replace various fuel systems and need to be able to maintain and repair all these systems.
Sometimes, specific parts have to be manufactured or adjustments made to the machine. In such instances, it is up to the mechanic to design the part to be manufactured. Micrometers, tachometers and engine dynamometers, as well as transmission dynamometers are used for this purpose.
Earth-moving equipment mechanics are responsible for looking after all the parts and components of the construction equipment, including the tyres, mechanical components, hydraulic systems, power shift transmissions, electrical and fuel systems.
The work involves travelling at times, as some of the earth-moving equipment is on site or in rural areas. Otherwise the work is usually carried out indoors in workshops.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with your hands
- keeping machines working properly and safely
- being able to detect faults in good time
Demanding aspects
- time constraints, as repairs are usually urgent because down-time is very expensive
- sometimes getting very dirty
- having to travel to remote areas on occasion
Requirements
An earth-moving equipment mechanic should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- able to work independently, quickly and efficiently;
- think analytically;
- have a practical and mechanical aptitude;
- have manual strength and dexterity;
- good hand-eye coordination;
- good communication skills.
School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Mechanical Technology
Training
Diploma: N.Dip: Mechanical Engineering - UNISA, CPUT, CUT, DUT, TUT, VUT
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.
FET College such as - Cape Town, Flavius Mareka, KZN Coastal, SW Gauteng, Umgungundlovu, or a correspondence course at Technisa
Employer
- companies that sell and service earth-moving equipment
- large earth-moving contractors
- large construction companies
- large civil engineering firms
- the irrigation machine industry
- tractor manufacturers
- government departments
- self-employment; with enough experience and capital, can start own business
Contact
The Liaison Officer
Metal and Engineering Education and Training Board
P O Box 61826
Marshall Town, 2107
Head of Training
Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa (SEIFSA)
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel. (011) 298-9400 Fax: (011) 298-9500
www.seifsa.co.za