Mechanical · Entry

Mechanical apprentice

Learns a mechanical trade through supervised work and formal training while recording skills against the apprenticeship plan.

Indicative 2026 annual cash$55k–$95kGross, generally before super
Common roster contextApprenticeship rosters may be site, workshop or residential; pay and training time depend on the agreement.

Role at a glance

What this role actually does.

Learns a mechanical trade through supervised work and formal training while recording skills against the apprenticeship plan. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.

The work

Core duties

  • 01

    Assist inspections and servicing under direction

  • 02

    Use tools and measurements safely

  • 03

    Record completed workplace learning

The assets

Equipment and systems

  • 01

    Hand and measuring tools

  • 02

    Training logbooks

  • 03

    Mechanical assemblies

Before mobilisation

Typical foundations

  • 01

    A registered apprenticeship or genuine trainee agreement

  • 02

    Supervision appropriate to current competence

  • 03

    Site induction and task-specific training

Prove capability

Evidence employers can verify

  • 01

    Practical learning and attendance

  • 02

    Training units completed

  • 03

    Safe tool use and supervisor feedback

Entry pathway

A credible way into the role.

  1. 01

    Apply for employer or group-training apprenticeships

  2. 02

    Meet screening and work-rights requirements

  3. 03

    Complete the trade qualification with supervised experience

Earning context

What tends to move pay

  • 01

    Experience and verified scope

  • 02

    Roster, location and shift pattern

  • 03

    Employer, contract and allowances

Before accepting

Questions to ask about the offer

  • 01

    Is this base salary, gross cash or a package including super?

  • 02

    Which roster, point of hire, ordinary hours and overtime terms apply?

  • 03

    What duties, equipment and written authorities are included in the offer?

Progression

Possible next moves.

01Fixed-plant mechanical fitter

Maintains the mechanical assets that crush, screen, convey, pump and process material across a mine or port operation.

Related role band: $125k–$175k
02Mobile plant mechanic or HD fitter

Maintains heavy mobile mining fleets, combining mechanical, hydraulic and diagnostic work in workshops and field environments.

Related role band: $140k–$210k
03Workshop or rebuild fitter

Strips, inspects, repairs and tests components in a workshop before they return to a mining fleet or plant.

Related role band: $105k–$155k

Progression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. A related profile is a starting point, not a guarantee of that exact title or scope. Browse all 98 role profiles →

Keep exploring

Related role profiles.

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Sources and role examples

Editorial note

Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining comparisons, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Pay presentation reviewed 27 September 2026.