First Year Apprentice Fitter Machinist

Swanson Industries; Newcastle; On-site; AUD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

8 weeks paid parental leave

Secondary carer leave

Employee benefits program

Salary packaging

Novated leasing

Discounts at everyday stores

Women’s Lead Network

Home Safe / WHS program

Fitness Passport

Job summary

Swanson Industries in Lambton, NSW is seeking an Apprentice Fitter & Machinist to join our team. This role combines hands-on fitting and machining with structured training through the Elevate Apprenticeship Program, including a dedicated mentor and supported learning.

During the apprenticeship you'll learn to repair hydraulic cylinders, read drawings and operate machine tools, progressing toward CNC machining as your skills grow.

Qualifications

• Interest in how machines and mechanical systems work.
• Hands-on approach with problem solving and learning.
• Comfort with maths and a focus on precision.
• Interest in CNC manufacturing and modern tooling.
• Reliable, motivated and eager to learn.
• Good communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate machining equipment and develop precision skills.
• Read engineering drawings and interpret technical specs.
• Measure components with precision tools and inspect for wear.
• Assist in reassembly and testing to ensure parts meet spec.
• Participate in the Elevate Apprenticeship Program with a mentor.

Skills

Curious about machines

Hands-on problem solving

Maths and precision

Interest in CNC manufacturing

Reliable and motivated

Team player / good communicator

Education

Fitter & Machinist trade qualification (apprenticeship)

Tools

Machining equipment

CNC machines

Reading engineering drawings

Job description

Swanson Industries has spent more than 70 years solving hydraulic problems for heavy industry. Today, we're a specialist in hydraulic cylinder manufacturing, repair and surface technology, trusted across mining, defence, marine and agriculture.

We're looking for an Apprentice Fitter & Machinist to join our Lambton team. This is more than just an apprenticeship - it's the opportunity to build a career in CNC machining.

During your apprenticeship, you'll learn the fundamentals of fitting and machining while gaining hands‑on experience with hydraulic components and complex, hands‑on engineering work. As your skills develop, you'll have the opportunity to progress into CNC machining, working with computer‑controlled machinery to manufacture and repair high‑precision components.

By the time you complete your trade, you'll have a strong foundation in fitting and machining, along with the skills and experience to continue developing your career as a CNC Machinist.

What You'll Learn

Working alongside experienced fitters and machinists, you'll learn how to:

• Repair, rebuild and maintain hydraulic cylinders and components
• Operate machining equipment and develop precision machining skills
• Read engineering drawings and understand technical specifications
• Measure components accurately using precision measuring equipment
• Inspect components and identify faults or wear
• Complete reassembly and testing to ensure components meet specification

You won't be expected to figure it all out on your own. Through our Elevate Apprenticeship Program, you'll have a dedicated mentor, structured learning through the Elevate Academy and a wider community of apprentices across Questas Group going through the same journey.

About You
We're looking for someone who:

• Is curious about how machines, tools and mechanical systems work
• Enjoys working with their hands and solving problems
• Is comfortable with maths and interested in precision and accuracy
• Is interested in technology and how CNC machines are used in manufacturing
• Is reliable, motivated and ready to learn
• Communicates well and enjoys working as part of a team

Where Can This Apprenticeship Take You?
Your apprenticeship is the starting point - not the finish line.

As you develop your trade skills, you'll gain exposure to increasingly advanced machining processes and technology, including CNC machining and precision manufacturing.

You'll also gain exposure to specialist surface technologies including hard chrome plating and laser cladding, giving you a broader understanding of modern engineering and manufacturing processes.

What's In It For You?

• A nationally recognised Fitter & Machinist trade qualification
• Hands‑on experience with precision machining and hydraulic equipment
• Mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship
• Employee benefits program, including salary packaging, novated leasing and discounts at everyday stores
• 8 weeks paid parental leave & 1 week secondary carer leave
• An inclusive culture and access to our Women’s Lead Network
• A strong focus on work, health and safety through our Home Safely Every Day program
• Fitness Passport

Why Swanson Industries?
For more than 70 years, we've been working on the equipment that keeps heavy industry moving. Now, we're looking for the next generation of tradespeople to join us.

Start with your Fitter & Machinist apprenticeship. Build your skills. And work towards becoming a CNC Machinist.