What does a Fitter do?
Published 4 min read
A fitter is a skilled tradesperson who assembles, installs and maintains equipment in a wide range of industries. They use a variety of tools and techniques to install and repair pipes, valves, pumps, heat exchangers, boilers and other types of mechanical equipment.
Fitter job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, or work orders to determine the kind and quantity of materials required
- Cut, shape, and smooth lumber or wood stock to specified measurements, using handtools, machines, or power saws
- Assemble and nail together cutouts to form subassemblies, such as doors or window frames
- Nail together sections of wood to form patterns used in the making of manufactured products
- Fit and install trim items, such as doors, skirting boards, architraves, cornices or cabinet fittings
- Measure, mark out and cut materials using hand tools or portable power tools
- Join sections of wood using nails, screws, dowels or glue
- Fill joints with putty or other fillers
- Smooth surfaces using sandpaper or other abrasive materials
Fitter Job Requirements
A fitter is a tradesperson who installs, repairs and maintains machinery, equipment and pipework, usually in industrial settings. They read engineering drawings and specifications to determine the type and size of components required and use a variety of hand and power tools to make the necessary adjustments and repairs. In some cases, they may need to fabricate parts using welding equipment. A fitter typically has completed an apprenticeship or holds a certificate or diploma in engineering trade.
Fitter Skills
- Read and interpret engineering drawings
- Use a variety of hand and power tools
- Assemble and fit prefabricated parts
- Operate lathes, drill presses, grinders and other metalworking machines
- Mark out and cut materials using gas torches, plasma cutters or similar equipment
- Weld or braze metal components together
- Bolt, rivet or screw assembled components in place
- Align and level machinery and equipment
- Install hydraulic, pneumatic and other types of valves and piping
- Perform routine maintenance tasks such as lubricating moving parts, checking fluid levels etc.
Related: Top Fitter Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Fitter
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a Fitter. Maybe they enjoy working with their hands and fixing things, or maybe they want to help keep people safe by ensuring that equipment is properly maintained. Whatever the reason, becoming a Fitter can be a rewarding career choice.
There are a few things that someone interested in becoming a Fitter should keep in mind. First, it is important to have good attention to detail and be able to follow instructions carefully. Second, it is helpful to be familiar with basic hand tools and how to use them. Finally, it is important to be able to troubleshoot problems and think creatively to come up with solutions.
Those who are interested in becoming a Fitter can start by completing an apprenticeship or certificate program at a trade school. This will give them the opportunity to learn the basics of the trade and get hands-on experience working with equipment. Once they have completed their training, they can then look for entry-level positions at factories, repair shops, or other businesses that use fitters. With experience, they may eventually become journeyman fitters or even master fitters.
Becoming a Fitter can be a challenging but rewarding career choice. Those who are detail-oriented and good with their hands can find satisfaction in helping to keep equipment running properly.
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