Lockwood South, VIC, Australia

Fitter(General)

 Job Description:

2026-April-09 - 2026-May-11

MAINTENANCE FITTERS
HAZELDENES
LOCKWOOD VIC 3551
FULL-TIME PERMANENT

Hazeldene's has been a leader in the Australian poultry industry since 1938, known for our commitment to animal welfare, sustainable farming, and community support. We produce fresh RSPCA Approved and FREPA Accredited free-range chicken, supplying retailers and wholesalers across Australia. As Bendigo's largest employer, we proudly support the local community with over 1,000 employees. We are currently seeking experienced Fitters.

Main Responsibilities

  • Conduct preventative maintenance on plant and equipment in line with manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe, reliable and efficient operations.
  • Interpret technical drawings, schematics and specifications to determine suitable materials, tolerances and the most appropriate approach for mechanical work.
  • Plan, prioritise and organise work activities independently, coordinating with relevant teams to minimise disruption to production.
  • Fit and assemble fabricated metal components and subassemblies, ensuring correct alignment, tolerances and overall accuracy using appropriate measuring equipment.
  • Inspect completed work and verify clearances, fit and finish of components to ensure compliance with required specifications and operational standards.
  • Respond to breakdowns and emergency work orders, applying effective fault-finding techniques to diagnose issues and restore equipment in a timely manner.
  • Set up, adjust and operate machining tools and equipment, including cutting, grinding and drilling, to achieve precise outcomes within required tolerances.
  • Determine appropriate work methods and sequences when carrying out fabrication, assembly and repair tasks to ensure efficiency and quality outcomes.
  • Carry out overhauls, repairs and ongoing maintenance of mechanical systems, including fluid power equipment such as hydraulic and pneumatic components.
  • Cut, thread, bend and install hydraulic and pneumatic pipes and lines in accordance with operational and safety requirements.
  • Assist with installation, alignment and commissioning of machinery and equipment as required, including supporting site-based mechanical works.
  • Provide regular updates on job progress, identify potential delays and contribute ideas for continuous improvement in maintenance practices.
  • Support and guide apprentices, contribute to a positive team environment and actively participate in safety initiatives including toolbox meetings.
  • Maintain flexibility in working hours, including shift coverage and responding to after-hours breakdowns when required.
  • Work in line with a Zero Harm approach, ensuring all tasks are performed safely and in compliance with company policies and relevant regulations.

Skills

  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose, troubleshoot and resolve faults in plant and equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics and engineering specifications accurately
  • Proficiency in the use of hand tools, power tools, machining equipment and precision measuring instruments
  • Sound knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including installation, maintenance and fault finding
  • Ability to perform fabrication, fitting, assembly and repair work to fine tolerances
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a practical and methodical approach to breakdowns and maintenance tasks
  • Good planning and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise work in a fast-paced production environment
  • Understanding of preventative maintenance systems and continuous improvement practices
  • Strong commitment to workplace health and safety, including risk identification and hazard reporting
  • Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team environment

Experience, Including Number of Years

  • Minimum 3 to 5 years' hands-on experience as a Maintenance Fitter, Fitter and Turner, or similar role within a manufacturing, food processing or industrial environment
  • Proven experience in preventative and corrective maintenance of plant machinery and production equipment
  • Demonstrated experience in fault finding, breakdown response and repair of mechanical systems in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience in fitting, assembling and installing mechanical components, including hydraulic and pneumatic systems
  • Experience operating machining equipment such as drills, grinders, lathes or similar tools to achieve required tolerances
  • Exposure to continuous production environments where minimising downtime is critical
  • Experience working within safety and quality frameworks such as GMP, HACCP or similar (highly desirable for food manufacturing environments)
  • Experience supporting apprentices or junior team members is desirable

Qualifications

  • Relevant trade qualification such as Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting and Machining) or equivalent experience
  • Recognised qualification as a Fitter, Maintenance Fitter or Fitter and Turner
  • Additional certifications or training in hydraulics, pneumatics or machining are advantageous
  • Forklift licence, elevated work platform or other relevant high-risk licences are advantageous
  • Strong commitment to ongoing training and development in maintenance and engineering practices