Fabricator Jobs in New Zealand

What does a Fabricator do?

What does a Fabricator do? A Fabricator measures, marks, cuts, and fabricates metal components that are used to form a structure, make an object, or complete a product. These materials can be used to form products of all shapes and sizes. From household items such as chairs, windows and appliance to larger items including machines, vehicles, and aircrafts.

What skills does a Fabricator need to have?

Fabrication is a process-driven driven role that had evolved over time. Traditionally, a Fabricator would use hand and power tools, but advancements in technology have seen a greater reliance on computerised devices and machinery to ensure accuracy. There are two key phases to the production process, namely preparation and fabrication.

Preparation
Reading, analysing, and interpreting blueprints is the first part of the preparation phase. Correctly measuring, marking, or programming where required, is extremely important. Doing so promotes high productivity levels and minimal interruptions. Good communication with key personnel in the production line is also crucial. It allows a Fabricator to correctly determine the equipment and raw materials that will be required to complete the process. Moreover, it maximises the possibility of identifying any obstacles that may arise during the production process. Basic mathematics and problem-solving experience are beneficial when preparing materials for the fabrication.

Fabrication
This is the phase where the Fabricator punches, cuts, rolls, and welds the raw materials to form a structure. A Fabricator must be proficient in the set up and use of metal work machinery such as drill presses, cutting torches, shears, and welding equipment. Welding is a daily task in most roles. Those who are competent in multiple welding techniques such as stick, MIG and TIG will be in an advantageous position. Quality control is another important component of a Fabricator’s role, an aspect which requires attention to detail. There is an expectation that a Fabricator can identify and repair defects, remake components, or make alterations to existing parts.

Fabricator job responsibilities

Read and analyse blueprints to determine job requirements
Measure, mark, cut, punch, roll and weld metal objects, ensuring that all parts are aligned and assembled as specified
Identify, examine, test, and repair faulty parts
Grind and finish completed parts and objects
Adhere to WHS policies and procedures
Communicate with other team members and trades professionals to ensure high level of productivity is maintained
Safe and competent use of a large range of hand and power tools including grinder, drop saw, circular saw, brake press, guillotine etc.
Proficiency in computer aided manufacturing. Includes devices and machinery such as CNC machine and laser cutter
Maintain and stick to production timeline
Lift/carry heavy pieces of metal or structures

Skills and experience employers are looking for

A Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade) is a minimum requirement to operate as a qualified Fabricator. Employers also find it beneficial to possess the following core and technical skills:

Core Skills

Logical and analytical thinker
Basic mathematics and excellent problem solving skills
Strong communication skills

Technical Skills

Measure, mark, cut, punch, roll and weld metal objects, ensuring that all parts are aligned and assembled correctly
Repair defects, remake components or make alterations to existing parts
Proficiency in using metal work machinery such as drill presses, cutting torches, shears and welding equipment

Core Skills

Employers are looking for process-oriented Fabricators who can add logic and critical thinking to the production process. The effective interpretation of blueprints and specifications are considered as essential. Methodical preparation along with accurate measuring and marking are must-have skills that will carry significant weight with employers.

Those with basic math knowledge and excellent problem-solving skills will be looked at favourably. Employers have noted that these are closely related to identifying defects and determining the most efficient method to correctly assemble and fabricate parts. This results in high output, excellent productivity levels and minimal delays.

Sound communication skills are an underrated asset according to employers. They have found that effective communication between Fabricators and key personnel have a positive impact on preparation, fabrication, quality control, safety, and overall productivity. Those with a history of strong communication skills are urged to make not of such in their resume.

Technical Skills

A Fabricator must possess a high level of competency and ability in measuring, marking, cutting, punching, rolling, and welding metal objects. In addition, there is a presumption among employers that a Fabricator can assemble all necessary parts as set out. These skills should have been developed during the completion of a Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade) with an added expectation that experienced Fabricators have enhanced these abilities.

Similarly, employers expect a Fabricator to be have the skills required to repair defects, remake components, or make alterations to existing parts. Achieving such requires competent use of tools such as drill presses, cutting torches, shears, and welding equipment. Those who have experience using multiple welding techniques are likely to be presented with additional opportunities.

What type of employers hire a Fabricator?

A large portion of Fabricator jobs are available within the manufacturing industry. Fabricators are in high demand from companies that create architectural and structural metal products.

Construction – Steel has become the most common material used in modern day construction and infrastructure. This has created many steel fabrication jobs both on-site and in workshops.

Resources & Mining – There are jobs available working in mines and factories or assembling scaffolding and other structures which require the expertise of a Fabricator with welding skills.

Logisitics – This applies to air, land and see. Those with specific experience will find that there are Fabricator jobs relating to motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft.

Fabricator qualifications

Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade)
School Certificate
White Card for employment in the construction industry

How to become a Fabricator in New Zealand

Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade)
Hands-on experience is crucial. An apprenticeship provides a solid foundation, but it is recommended that Fabricators enhance their skills by becoming proficient in multiple welding techniques.
Focus on your core skills. Employers are placing significant value on sound communication and excellent problem-solving skills.
Obtaining licences to drive/operate machinery and equipment, and attain your White Card to work in the construction industry.
Highlight the success stories of your previous work by including references from former employers or any certification from professional development.
Experienced Fabricators with comprehensive knowledge can transition beyond the workplace and into education by obtaining further accreditation.

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