What is a Pipe Fitter?

A Pipe Fitter is not a Plumber!

A Pipe Fitter is a specialised tradesperson who installs, maintains and repairs high pressure mechanical piping systems.  These systems are often found in aircraft, industrial plants and various marine vessels.

A Pipe Fitter has a deep understanding  (theory and practical) of these complex piping systems which includes various metal types, different pressure gauges and the complicated engineering of these systems.

Their working environment demands high pressures and extreme temperatures which requires extremely accurate engineering.

They may construct and maintain entire piping systems for:

• Boiler systems
• Refrigeration systems
• Heating and ventilation systems
• Hydraulic systems
• Chemical and food processing systems
• Brewers and distilleries
• Paper mills
• Gas refineries
• Nuclear stations
• Aircraft companies
• Shipwrights
• Pharmaceutical companies etc

What does a Pipe Fitter do?

• reads and understands diagrams and piping plans
• assembles pipes and fits pipes
  
• welds, solders, cements and threads
• checks and does routine maintenance
• trouble-shoots and repairs problems

Are you …?

• good with your hands?
• good at mathematics?
• engineering and mechanically inclined?
• observant?
• responsible?
• safety-conscious?

How do I become a Pipe Fitter?

Most Pipe Fitters complete formal training. 

Some complete apprenticeship programs that provide comprehensive training.

For example:

• WILBAT PROJECTS: Kwa Zulu Natal

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics

• EKURHULENI ARTISAN & SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE

After successfully completing the course, students receive a certificate, enabling them to work in the trade for 4 years, thereafter they are able to  apply for their Trade Test at Olifantsfontein (INDLELA).

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:  Escalator/Lift Mechanic … or … Earth Moving Equipment Mechanic

Is becoming a Pipe Fitter the right career choice for me?

Other names for Motorcycle Mechanic:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – A day in the life of a Motorcycle Mechanic

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Motorcycle Mechanic?

A Motorcycle Mechanic is a tradesperson.

They are responsible for the inspection, maintenance and repair of motorcycles/and or scooters. They may also attend ATV’s (all-terrain vehicles).

As motorcycles become a more popular means of transport due to petrol prices, Motorcycle Mechanics more in demand.

What does a Motorcycle Mechanic do?

• writes out quotations
• checks the motorcycle: shocks, brakes, etc
• replaces or re-aligns worn or used parts
• changes oil
• welds and reconstructs of parts (in some cases)
• trouble-shoots (finding what the problem is)
• restores motorcycles
• keeps records

Are you … ?

• passionate about motorcycles?
• good with your hands?
• mechanically minded?
• observant?
• responsible?
• accurate?

How do I become a Motorcycle Mechanic?

• MerSETA

http://www.merseta.org.za/Home.aspx

Approved and accredited MerSETA training companies: Type your trade choice in and click on FIND.

http://ww2.merseta.org.za/OrgIndex.asp?page=sites

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Automotive Repair and Maintenance (Motorcycles) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• National Certificate: Engineering Studies: N1, N2 and N3
• These can be done at a lot of TVET (FET) colleges. Check out yours.
• 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 Motorscycle Mechanic 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. 

Private Trainer:

• IMPERIAL TECHNICAL TRAINING ACADEMY

http://www.itta.co.za/Courses.aspx

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Automotive Mechanic … or … Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Is becoming a Motorcycle Mechanic the right career choice for me? 

What is a Diesel Fitter?

Diesel Fitters work on large diesel engines. They are responsible for the service, maintenance and repair of these engines.

Examples of diesel engines:

• Buses
• Trucks
• Tractors
• Earth-moving equipment
• Generators
• Pumps
• Drill rigs
• Marine/ship engines

What does a Diesel Fitter do?

• troubleshoots
• readsmanuals
• measures the damage /wear and tear
• repairs problems
• uses specialised equipment: micrometers, dynamometers etc
• welds

Are you … ?

• good with your hands?
• a problem solver?
• mechanically minded?
• physically strong and fit?
• accurate?
• observant?
• reliable?

How do I become a Diesel Fitter?

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Mechanical Engineering (Fitting & Machining) (Fitter and Turner) NQF Level 3, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Welding Pratice (All Positions: Mechanical Engineering) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate in Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting – NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• National Certificate in Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting – NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• National Certificate in Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting – NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• 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. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Heavy Equipment Mechanic … or … Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic

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

OFO No: 311501

Other names for Mechanical Engineering Technician: 

• Aeronautical Technician
• Agricultural Engineering Technician
• Automotive Engineering Technician
• Boiler Testing Technician
• Electrical Engineering Drafting Officer
• Fire Protection Installer / Commissioner
• Hydraulic Controls Technician
• Marine Engineering Technician 
• Mechanical Instrument TechnicianMechanical Laboratory Technician
• Mobile Plant Technician
• Naval Technician
• Pipe Testing Technician
• Tool and Die Design Technician

What is a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

A Mechanical Engineering Technician works alongside a Mechanical Engineer.

They conduct tests on mechanical systems.

What does a Mechanical Engineering Technician do?

• assembles and installs mechanical systems
• conducts tests and makes modifications
• analyses data
• designs layouts and helps prepare mechanical installations
• monitors mechanical installations
• makes sure all systems are installed and run efficiently and according to safety standards
• helps prepare quotes / costs etc

Are you . . . ?

• good at maths and science?
• interested in engineering?
• observant?
• analytical?
• a team player?
• a problem solver?
• reliable?

How do I become a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

PATH 1

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Central University of Technology
• Durban University of Technology
• Mangosuthu University of Technology
• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
• Tshwane University of Technology
• UNISA
• Vaal University of Technology
• Walter Sisulu University

PATH 2

National Diploma in  Mechanical Engineering

• 2 years workplace experience (registered as a Candidate Engineering Technician through ECSA)
• Professional Review by ECSA
• Designation: Only engineers registered with ECSA may use the title Professional Engineering Technician.

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. 

• ENGINEERING COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA (ECSA)

ECSA is the national body that regulates professional engineers.

https://www.ecsa.co.za/default.aspx

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Mechanical Engineer or Mechatronics Engineer

Is becoming a Mechanical Engineering Technician the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 214402

Other names for Mechanical Engineering Technologist:

• Air-Conditioning
• Automotive Technologist
• Clinical Technologist
• Fluid Mechanics Technologist
• Forensic Technologist
• Heating and Ventilation (including fire) Technologist
• Machine Design and Development Engineering Technologist
• Maintenance Technologist
• Mechatronics Engineering Technologist
• Piping Technologist
• Pressurised Vessels Technologist
• Rotational Plant Technologist
• Structural Steel Technologist
• Thermodynamics Technologist
  Transportation Systems Technologist

What is a Mechanical Engineering Technologist?

A Mechanical Engineering Technologist analyses and modifies mechanical engineering systems and equipment.

They can work in many industries:

• Mining
• Construction
• Agriculture
• Industrial
• Aeronautical
• Manufacturing etc

What does a Mechanical Engineering Technologist do?

• assembles and installs mechanical systems
• conducts tests and makes modifications
• analyses data
• advises on the design team
• advises on construction
• establishes safety standards
• monitors mechanical installations
• makes sure all systems are installed and run efficiently and according to safety standards
• helps prepare quotes / costs etc

Are you . . . ?

• good at maths and science?
• interested in engineering?
• observant?
• analytical?
• a team player?
• a problem solver?
• reliable?

How do I become a Mechanical Engineering Technologist?

PATH 1

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering (BTech)

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Central University of Technology
• Durban University of Technology
• Mangosuthu University of Technology
• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
• Tshwane University of Technology
• UNISA
• Vaal University of Technology
• Walter Sisulu University

PATH 2

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering (BTech)

• 3 years workplace experience (registered as a Candidate Engineering Technologist through ECSA)
• Professional Review by ECSA
• Designation: Only engineers registered with ECSA may use the title Professional Engineering Technologist.

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. 

• ENGINEERING COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA (ECSA)

ECSA is the national body that regulates professional engineers.

https://www.ecsa.co.za/default.aspx

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:

Is becoming a Mechanical Engineering Technologist the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 214401

Other names for Mechanical Engineer:

• Air-conditioning
• Automotive Engineer
• Diesel Engineer
• Fluid Mechanics Engineer
• Forensic Engineer
• Heating and Ventilation (including fire) Engineer
• Heating and Ventilation Engineer
• Machine Design and Development Engineer
• Maintenance Management Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer (Mines)
• Mechatronics Engineer
• Piping Engineer
• Pressurised Vessels Engineer
• Rotational Plant Engineer
• Structural Steel Engineer
• Thermodynamics Engineer
• Transportation Systems Engineer

CLICK HERE   or   CLICK HERE   or   CLICK HERE

Youtube clips on Mechanical Engineers

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Mechanical Engineer?

Mechanical engineering is a very wide field.

It includes:

• Mechanics
• Kinematics
• Fluid Mechanics
• Energy
• Pneumatics
• Nanotechnology
• Mechatronics etc

Mechanical Engineers work in areas such as:

• Air Conditioning
• Refrigeration
• Aircraft Design
• Product Design
• Instrumentation
• Automation and much more

A Mechanical Engineer must be good at mathematics and physical science.

What does a Mechanical Engineer do?

• does research
• analyses data
• designs anything from cars to robotics to buildings (designs ventilation systems etc)
• uses CAD (computer aided draughting equipment)
• improves existing devices and/or systems and makes them more efficient
• liaises with other specialists
• works within budgets

Are you . . . ?

• intelligent?
• good at maths and science?
• interested in engineering?
• observant?
• analytical?
• a team player?
• a problem solver?

How do I become a Mechanical Engineer?

PATH 1

Bachelor Mechanical Engineering

• North West University
• University of Cape Town
• University of Johannesburg
• University of KZN
• University of Pretoria
• University of Stellenbosch
• University of Witwatersrand

PATH 2

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering

• 3 years workplace experience (registered as a Candidate Engineer through ECSA)
• Professional Review by ECSA
• Designation: Only engineers registered with ECSA may use the title Professional Engineer.

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. 

• ENGINEERING COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA (ECSA)

ECSA is the national body that regulates professional engineers.

https://www.ecsa.co.za/default.aspx

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic or Mechanical Engineering Technician

Is becoming a Mechanical Engineer the right career choice for me?

Other names for Diesel Mechanic:

What is a Diesel Mechanic?

A Diesel Mechanic is responsible for maintenance and repairs of diesel engines and vehicles.

Some specialise in:

• Passenger vehicles
• Busses
• Trucks
• Bulldozers
• Tractors
• Cranes etc

Some Diesel Mechanics also have a strong understand of electronics.

Diesel Mechanics are often employed in the transport or construction industry. 

Other Diesel Mechanics may work in automotive workshops working on private vehicles like 4×4’s, bakkies etc.

What does a Diesel Mechanic do?

• performs routine checks using a checklist
• makes sure all parts are in good running order
• finds faults and solves problems
  
• uses a variety of tools: screwdrivers, pneumatic tools, welding equipment etc
• services and repairs engines
• oils and greases
• adjusts timing etc
• makes sure everything is in good running order
• keeps records

Are you … ?

• good with your hands?
• mechanically minded?
• hard working?
• observant?
• problem solver?
• responsible?

How do I become a Diesel Mechanic?   

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Diesel Mechanic – NQF Level 2, 3, and 4
• Generally with studies at an FET (TVET) College – see institutions near you here https://careerplanet.co.za/institutions

PATH 3

• Learnership – Diesel Mechanic – Underground Diamonds – NQF Level 2, 3, and 4

PATH 4

• Learnership – Diesel Mechanic – Coal – NQF Level 2, 3, and 4

PATH 5

• Learnership – Diesel Mechanic – Metalliferous – NQF Level 2, 3, and 4

PATH 6

• Learnership – Diesel Mechanic – Surface Diamonds – NQF Level 2, 3, and 4

Other options:

• THE AA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

• RANKIN TRAINING SOLUTIONS

• OLIFANTSFONTEIN TRAINING CENTRE

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:  Motorcycle Mechanic … or … Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic

Is becoming a Diesel Mechanic the right career choice for me?

Other name for Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic:

• Heavy Equipment Mechanic

What is an Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic?

Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic can also be known as a heavy Equipment Mechanic.

Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic’s job is to maintain and repair all aspect of earthmoving machines from the hydraulic systems and power shift transmissions to electronic and electrical systems.

What does an Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic do?

• checks and services equipment regularly
• detects possible faults and flaws
• repairs, adjusts and maintains equipment
• replaces and fits new sections or new parts
• designs specific parts where necessary and has them made
• travels from one site to another – usually in remote areas
• works with specialised equipment: micro-meters, tachometers and engine dynamometers

Are you …?

• a person who enjoys working outdoors?
• a person who doesn’t mind getting dirty?
• mechanical?
• good with your hands?
• analytical and practical?
• responsible?
• able to work alone?
• physically fit and strong?
• innovative?

How do I become a Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic?

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Repair and Maintenance (Earthmoving Equipment) – NQF Level 2, 3 or 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Repair and Maintenance (Earthmoving Equipment) – NQF Level 2, 3 or 4
• Trade Test

Here is a private school:

• COLLIERY TRAINING COLLEGE (CTC):  (Witbank)

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:  Automotive Mechanic … or … Pipe Fitter

Is becoming an Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic the right career choice for me? 

Panel Beater

CLICK HERE

for more info about this career

What is a Tractor Mechanic?

A Tractor Mechanic inspects, tests, maintains, services and repairs tractors or other large machinery.

What does a Tractor Mechanic do?

• inspects tractors and looks for faults, broken parts etc
• takes engines apart
• problem solves
• repairs or replaces broken or worn parts
• oils and greases parts
• maintains service records

Are you . . . ?

• interested in large machinery/ vehicles?
• interested in mechanics?
• good with your hands?
• methodical?
• responsible and reliable?
• safety conscious?

How do I become a Tractor Mechanic?

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Mechanical Engineering (Fitting & Machining) (Fitter and Turner) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Welding Practice (All Positions: Mechanical Engineering) NQF Level 2 & 3
• Learnership – Welding Application and Practice (All metals in all positions: Mechanical Welder) NQF Level 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate: IC: Motor, Diesel and Tractor Mechanics – N1, N2 and N3
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

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 Tractor Mechanic 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: Aircraft Mechanic … or … Industrial Machinery Mechanic

Is becoming a Tractor Mechanic the right career choice for me?