Other names for Weapon Systems Mechanic:

What is a Weapon Systems Mechanic?

A Weapon Systems Mechanic often falls into the category of Electronics Engineering.

They are responsible for the building, installation, modification, service and repair of the electronic components and parts of weaponry systems.

Here are a few examples of systems they could work on:

• missiles control instrumentation
• test equipment
• computer equipment
• satellite equipment etc

What does a Weapon Systems Mechanic do?

• lays out and builds instruments
• troubleshoots and repairs – by either fixing broken part or replacing with new
• modifies and updates existing equipment
• makes minor adjustments using specialised hand tools
• tests electronics to evaluate performance
• reads diagrams and manuals
• performs routine maintenance
• keeps up to date with new technology and weaponry
• keeps log books and writes reports
• orders and procures (sources) specialised parts

Are you … ?

• good with your hands?
• good at mathematics?
• a person with good reading and comprehension skills?
• a problem solver?
• a good time manager?
• a good listener?
• a good communicator?
• responsible and reliable?
• fit and healthy?

How do I become a Weapon Systems Mechanic?

The best way to become a Weapon Systems Mechanic is to study Electronics Engineering.

Another way is to join the SA Military. Here they will offer you free training as well as food and accommodation. 

• SA NAVY

Weapons Operator course:

http://www.navy.mil.za/SANCareers/weapons_operator.htm

• SA ARMY

Military Skills Development Systems:

http://www.careers.mil.za/

Other routes to follow:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – CNC Production Machining NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Chemical Explosives Manufacturing Operator NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Learnership – Electro-mechanics Level 2
• Learnership – Electro-mechanics (Enigineering and Technology) Level 3
• Learnership – Electro-Mechanics (Manufacturing and Engineering) Level 4
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Learnership – Millwright (Open Cast) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• Learnership – Firearms Maintenance NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 7

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Weapon Systems Mechanic / Operator without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Armament Fitter … or … Bodyguard

Is becoming a Weapon Systems Mechanic the right career choice for me?

Other names for Electrician:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – A Description of Electrician Job

CLICK HERE  or CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Meet an Electrician

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is an Electrician?

Electricians are in demand!

An Electrician is trained and qualified to install, operate, repair, upgrade and service various electrical systems. 

These systems can include wiring, specialised electrical equipment and different fixtures. Electricians need to work within relevant codes and regulations. 

Some Electricians may also install and service street lights, intercom systems and various control systems. They work in homes, complexes, housing developments, large skyscrapers, factories, power stations etc.

Electricians can specialise in different areas, namely:

• Regular Electrician
• Engineering Electrician
• Construction Electrician
• Mining Electrician
• Auto Electrician
• Aircraft Electrician

What does a Electrician do?

• designs layouts based on job specifications and local codes
• reads building plans to understand electrical circuits
  
• studies electrical configurations
• orders supplies
• tests and inspects circuits and systems using specialised equipment
• installs complex electrical equipment
• upgrades existing systems
• fixes wires and circuits
• maintains and services electrical systems
• trouble-shoots – diagnose and find solutions
• works with various electrical equipment and tools
• drives from one site to another
• makes sure of safety at all times
  
• works according to government regulations
  

Are you … ? 

• interested in electricity?
• physically fit and agile?
• observant?
• responsible?
• a person with an eye for detail?
• a person with good colour vision?
• good with your hands?
• a person with excellent judgement?
• safety conscious?
• self motivated?

How do I become an Electrician?

You can get training from a lot of TVET (FET) and private colleges.

Check with your local college what they offer.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Electrical Engineering Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Chemical Electrician (First Line Maintenance/Installation Electrician) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Learnership –Electrical Engineering (Engineering and Technology) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Learnership – Electrical Engineering (Transmission) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• Learnership – Electrical Engineering (Distribution) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 7

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as an Electrician without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

Here are some examples of private institutions:

• PROTECH TRAINING: (Centurion)

Offers both Apprenticeship and Learnership programmes

• AA TECHNICAL COLLEGE:  (Johannesburg and Cape Town)

Offers an Apprenticeship:  2-4 years : Automotive Electrician 

Minimum requirements:
Grade 10 or Grade 11 (Std 9) or equivalent with Maths and Science would be recommended

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Electromechanician/Millwright … or … Electrical Engineer

Is becoming an Electrician the right career choice for me?

What is a Diesel Electrical Fitter? 

Diesel Electrical Fitters can work in train yards, power stations and in private homes. 

In a train yard, a Diesel Electrical Fitter’s main job is to install, maintain and repair wiring on diesel locomotives. 

Diesel Electrical Fitters use very technical equipment and hand tools. 

What does a Diesel Electrical Fitter do?

• maintains and repair diesel locomotives
• sticks strictly to safety regulations
• keeps records

Are you  . . . ?

• passionate about trains?
• responsible and reliable?
• safety conscious?
• able to work in cramped and dirty spaces?
• a person who pays attention to detail?
• a problem solver?
• good with your hands?
• physically fit and strong?

How do I become a Diesel Electrical Fitter?

TETA suggest that you begin your career by completing a:

National Certificate: Diesel Electrical Fitter NQF 2

Requirements:

• 16 years old
• Grade 10 with Mathematics or
• Grade 10 without Maths but at least Maths on the N1 or
• N1 which includes Mathematics as well as a technical trade or
• NCV Level 2

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• TETA

http://www.teta.org.za/inner.aspx?section=2&page=17

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Railway Signaller … or … Cable Jointer

Is becoming a Diesel Electrical Fitter right career choice for me?

Other names for Refrigeration Mechanic:

CLICK HERE 

Youtube clip of a Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Technician

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Refrigeration and Air-conditioning & Mechanic?

They can work in one or two fields:

• Refrigeration
• Air-conditioners
• Ventilation systems

They install, repair and maintain the air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment used in a wide range of areas, for example: large computer rooms, hospitals, supermarkets, large corporation offices, humidors (places where they keep cigars) etc. Actually, anywhere the temperature of place must be regulated, that’s where a Refrigeration / Air Conditioning Mechanic will find work.

A good knowledge of electrical principles is essential as Refrigeration Mechanics must be able to trace a fault and make repairs and adjustments. These may be electrical or mechanical.

Refrigeration Mechanics may work in workshops or on the premises of refrigeration or air-conditioning companies.

What does a Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Mechanic do?

• reads and interprets mechanical, electrical and architectural drawings
• installs new equipment
• is responsible for the electrical wiring of the installation
• solders and copper welds equipment
• maintains specific temperature and humidity conditions
• traces faults and fixes them
• services and does routine maintenance on equipment
• keeps records of work done

Are you …?

• good with your hands?
• good at mathematics?
• mechanically inclined?
• electrically inclined?
• observant?
• responsible?
• safety-conscious?
• willing to work unusual hours?
• able to read mechanical drawings and technical information?

How do I become a Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Mechanic?

INFORMAL

You can teach yourself or learn from someone who is already qualified.

If you learn the trade in a specific company you will be able to work for THAT company or kind of company.

Example: If you learn the trade in a repair shop – you may find it difficult to be employed elsewhere.

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college and practical workplace experience under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership: Air-conditioning, Refrigeration & Ventilation Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• National Certificate (Engineering Studies) N1, 2 and N3
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
  
• If you have already been working a long time as a Refrigeration / Air Conditioning Mechanic without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

FORMAL FET (TVET) TRAINING

• To study these at an FET (TVET) college, you will need Maths.

OR PRIVATE COLLEGES

• ACRA: Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (merSETA accredited)

• PADDY’S REFRIGERATION & AIR-CONDITIONING TRAINING CENTRE: (merSETA accredited)
  

• SAIRAC: The South African Institute of. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic … or … Pipe Fitter

Is becoming a Refrigeration Mechanic & Air-conditioning the right career choice for me?

What is a Cable Jointer?

A Cable Jointer is a specialised artisan who works with heavy insulated cables.

Examples of these kinds of cables:

• High voltage
• Fibre optics
• Telephone cables

This job requires incredible skill and electrical expertise.

What does a Cable Jointer do?

• creates ‘splices’ – a particular way to join cables together
• checks and maintains the cables
• tests, troubleshoots and repairs cables
• digs trenches to lay cables
• keeps records

Are you … ?

• passionate about electricity?
• able to work in all kinds of weather conditions?
• strong and healthy?
• good with your hands?
• comfortable up ladders and cranes?
• prepared to work in isolated places?
• safety conscious?
• a team player?

How do I become a Cable Jointer?

Further Education and Training Colleges (FET) may offer programmes for specific Trade or Skills Set for would-be cable jointers.

We advise contacting these institutions directly.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

Here are some accredited private places where you can do various cable jointing courses:

• TANK INDUSTRIES

• H.V. TEST (PTY) LTD

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Electrician … or … Pipe Fitter

Is becoming a Cable Jointer the right career choice for me?

Other names for Millwright:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Millwright – Metal Engineering

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Millwright?

A Millwright is a craftsman or specialised tradesman.

They install, maintain and repair stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment.

They may work on production machines, electrically driven machines and/or electronic control gear.

Millwrights usually work in the manufacturing section of factories, government agencies, Eskom, Sasol, and other large corporations, but they can also work for themselves.

What does a Millwright do?

• interprets drawings
• dismantles machines or electrical motors to trace faults
• makes temporary repairs while part is being ordered/made
• keeps up to date with new components which is essential
• checks wiring to determines power consumption
• assembles, fits and installs new machinery
• repairs and lubricates machines
• signals to crane operator to lower basic assembly units to bedplate.

Are you … ?

• mechanically minded?
• self confident?
• able to deal with pressure?
• a person with good hand-eye co-ordination?
• physically fit?
• detail orientated?

How do I become a Millwright?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Electro-Mechanics Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Millwright – Diamond Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Learnership – Millwright – Metalliferious Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Learnership – Millwright – Coal Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• Learnership – Millwright – (Open Cast) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

How much does a Millwright earn?

• PAYSCALE – CLICK HERE

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Automotive Electrician … or … Armature Winder

Is becoming an Electromechanician / Millwright the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

What is a Photocopier Technician?

A Photocopier Technician is a trained artisan who is responsible for the smooth running of photocopy machines.

Photocopy machines are an important tool in an office.

Most offices require a photocopy machine for admin so businesses usually have at least one photocopier machine.

For example:

• A print and design company or restaurant may have only one but a large company like Old Mutual or Standard Bank may have hundreds.  So Photocopier Technicians have their work cut out for them.

What does a Photocopier Technician do?

• travels from one customer to another
• instals new machines
• services machines
• troubleshoots and finds the fault
• orders parts
• replaces broken or worn parts
• trains new users/clients on how to use machine
• reads manuals
• keeps up to date with current technology
• keeps records

Are you … ?

• mathematically inclined?
• technically minded?
• interested in electronics?
• a good communicator?
• willing to work overtime sometimes?
• good with people?
• patient?

How do I become a Photocopier Technician?

To get from one customer to another – it is advantageous to have a valid driver’s licence.  Some companies may offer you a company car while others expect you to have your own.

Some Photocopier Technicians require a A+ Course in computers and electronics training.  A basic understanding of networking is advantageous.

Some institutions you can do the A+ IT course are:

• IT ACADEMY

• NEW HORIZONS

• LEARNFAST

Another way to become a Photocopier Technician is to approach a Photocopy company directly.  They may offer in-house training. 

If you start at the bottom of the company and show that you are hard-working and dedicated, the company may send you on a training course for you to become a Photocopier Technician.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Machine Mechanic … or … Electrician

Is becoming a Photocopier Technician the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 712201

Other names for Electroplater:

What is an Electroplater?

A thin layer of metal-solution is applied to the object then, using an electric current – the metal is then ‘fixed’ (made to stick) to the object.

Metals which are used in electroplating include:

• Copper
• Zinc
• Chromium
• Gold & silver

Reasons items are electroplated:

• Decoration
• Protection

Industries that could use electroplating:

• Jewellery
• Auto
• Electronic
• Metal furniture etc

What does an Electroplater do?

• checks specifications from client
• calculates and writes up quotations
• cleans the object that is going to be electroplated
• applies special solutions to object
• uses electrical electroplating equipment to electroplate the object
• inspects and maintains equipment so it’s in good working order
• keeps detailed records

Are you … ?

• good at mathematics and science?
• interested in chemistry?
• good with your hands?
• a person with good eyesight?
• a person with steady hands?
• accurate?
• good with colour?
• good at communication? (reading and writing)
• safety conscious?

How do I become an Electroplater?

INFORMAL

You can teach yourself or learn from someone who is already qualified.

If you learn the trade in a specific company you will be able to work for THAT company or kind of company.

Example: If you learn the trade in a Electroplating company – you can only work on electroplating. Working in a different electrical field may be difficult.

FORMAL FET (TVET) TRAINING

If you get certified at an FET (TVET) college in Electrical Engineering (light) or Electronics Engineering – you will be able to fix almost any kind of electrical machine in any business.

These qualifications will give you more job options when you qualify.  You would add the Electroplating skills and knowledge to your certificatation

To study these at an FET (TVET) college, you will need Maths and Physical Science.

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Manufacturing of Surface Coatings NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Metals Processing NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate: Engineering Studies: N1, N2 and N3
• These can be done at a lot of TVET (FET) colleges. Check out your local one to see what they offer.
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

PATH 5

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Bricklayer without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

SAMFA: SOUTH AFRICAN METAL FINISHING ASSOCIATION

• Regularly offers electroplating courses:  Check here.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Boilermaker … or … Tool, Jig an Die-Maker

Is becoming a Electroplater the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

What is a Radio & TV Mechanic?

Radio and TV Mechanics may also be called Radio & TV Technicians.

They are skilled works people who install, repair and service:

• stereo systems
• televisions
• home entertainment centres
• car radios
• public address systems

Most Radio & TV Mechanics work in workshops but some can be called out to customer premises (work and residential).

Some Radio & TV Mechanics may work for events companies and are responsible for the set-up of all the radio and TV equipment for / and during the event. For example: Conferences

What does a Radio & TV Mechanic do?

• discusses customer requirements
• installs units
• services / maintains units
• troubleshoots problems by checking tubes, wires and other parts
• fixes the problem by either fixing the part or replacing the part
• tests equipment (antennas, receivers etc)
• makes minor adjustments

Are you … ?

• good with your hands?
• mechanically inclined?
• electronically inclined?
• a person with good hand-eye co-ordination?
• thorough and methodical?
• able to read manuals?
• a person with good hearing?

How do I become a Radio & TV Mechanic?

INFORMAL

You can teach yourself or learn from someone who is already qualified.

If you learn the trade in a specific company you will be able to work for THAT company or kind of company.

Example: If you learn the trade in a repair shop – you may find it difficult to be employed elsewhere.

FORMAL FET (TVET) TRAINING

You can do a NQF Level 4 Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC): Domestic Appliance Repair – and you will be able to fix almost any kind of domestic appliance.

To study these at an FET (TVET) college, you will need Maths.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Electrician … or … Motor Mechanic

Is becoming a Radio & TV Mechanic the right career choice for me?

CLICK HERE

for more info about these careers …

and  CLICK HERE  for a basic understanding of Engineering requirements