MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
November 9, 2026 2026-11-09 9:30MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade
The MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade is a nationally recognised trade qualification designed to develop the practical skills and technical knowledge required to become a qualified Engineering Tradesperson – Mechanical. This qualification prepares individuals for skilled trade careers across Australia’s engineering, manufacturing, mining, defence, infrastructure, energy, and industrial maintenance sectors.
This qualification is specifically designed for apprentices and experienced workers seeking formal trade recognition. It equips students with the skills to manufacture, assemble, install, maintain, test, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical machinery, equipment, and systems used in a wide range of industrial environments.
Throughout the course, students develop practical competencies in mechanical fitting, machining, precision measurement, engineering drawings, equipment assembly, fault diagnosis, maintenance, and the safe operation of engineering tools and machinery. Training focuses on developing industry-standard technical skills, problem-solving capabilities, and safe work practices.
The qualification covers a broad range of mechanical engineering trade activities, including:
- Mechanical fitting and assembly
- Machining, turning, milling, and drilling
- Installation and commissioning of mechanical equipment
- Preventive and corrective maintenance
- Mechanical fault finding and troubleshooting
- Precision measurement and quality inspection
- Manufacturing and modification of mechanical components
- Repair and servicing of industrial machinery
- Engineering workshop operations
Training is undertaken through a formal apprenticeship Training Contract or a structured trade recognition assessment process, allowing learners to demonstrate the practical skills and technical competencies required by industry. Workplace-based training and assessment ensure that graduates meet the standards expected of qualified mechanical tradespeople.
Upon successful completion, graduates will have the skills and knowledge required to work as an Engineering Tradesperson – Mechanical, with opportunities to specialise in mechanical fitting, machining, maintenance, and other mechanical trade disciplines.
The MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade prepares graduates for skilled trade roles across a wide range of engineering, manufacturing, maintenance, and industrial sectors.
Qualified mechanical tradespeople play an essential role in maintaining industrial machinery, manufacturing precision components, installing mechanical systems, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of engineering equipment.
Upon successful completion, graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Engineering Tradesperson – Mechanical
- Mechanical Fitter
- Fitter and Turner
- Maintenance Fitter
- Mechanical Maintenance Technician
- Machinist
- CNC Machinist
- Industrial Maintenance Tradesperson
- Mechanical Assembly Tradesperson
- Plant Maintenance Fitter
- Production Machinist
- Workshop Fitter
- Mechanical Equipment Service Technician
- Manufacturing Tradesperson
Career opportunities depend on the units completed, trade specialisation, and relevant industry experience.
Graduates may find employment across industries including:
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Defence and aerospace
- Mining and resources
- Oil and gas
- Renewable energy
- Construction and infrastructure
- Transport and rail
- Marine and shipbuilding
- Food processing and packaging
- Agricultural machinery and equipment
- Utilities and power generation
- Industrial automation and advanced manufacturing
With additional experience and further professional development, graduates may progress into senior trade, technical, supervisory, and management roles, including Maintenance Supervisor, Workshop Supervisor, Production Coordinator, Mechanical Maintenance Planner, or Engineering Supervisor.
The qualification provides a strong foundation for building a rewarding career in Australia’s engineering and manufacturing industries, where skilled mechanical tradespeople support productivity, innovation, and industrial development.
Upon successful completion of the MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade, graduates will have developed the practical skills, technical knowledge, and industry experience required to perform mechanical engineering trade activities safely, accurately, and efficiently.
Graduates will be able to:
- Apply workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements, risk management principles, and safe work practices in mechanical engineering environments.
- Read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, technical specifications, and workplace instructions.
- Select and safely operate engineering hand tools, power tools, machinery, and precision measuring instruments.
- Perform mechanical fitting, assembly, installation, and maintenance tasks in accordance with industry standards.
- Manufacture and modify mechanical components using appropriate machining processes and equipment.
- Perform turning, milling, drilling, and other machining operations relevant to their trade specialisation.
- Apply precision measurement techniques to inspect components and verify dimensional accuracy.
- Install, align, adjust, and test mechanical machinery, equipment, and assemblies.
- Diagnose mechanical faults and carry out appropriate repair and maintenance procedures.
- Perform preventive and corrective maintenance to improve equipment reliability and operational performance.
- Apply engineering calculations, technical principles, and problem-solving techniques to mechanical trade activities.
- Inspect completed work and apply quality assurance procedures to ensure compliance with technical specifications.
- Use appropriate materials, components, and engineering processes to complete mechanical manufacturing and maintenance tasks.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, and technical teams while maintaining accurate workplace documentation.
- Demonstrate professional workmanship, teamwork, productivity, and responsibility expected of a qualified mechanical tradesperson.
Throughout the apprenticeship or trade recognition process, learners develop and demonstrate competencies through practical engineering activities and workplace-based assessments. Graduates gain the technical expertise and confidence to perform mechanical trade work across a variety of engineering and industrial environments.
Specific competencies will depend on the selected units and mechanical trade specialisation.
To be awarded this qualification, students must successfully complete:
12 Core units
17 Elective units
Core Units
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| MEM09002 | Interpret technical drawing |
| MEM11011 | Undertake manual handling |
| MEM12023 | Perform engineering measurements |
| MEM12024 | Perform computations |
| MEM13015 | Work safely and effectively in manufacturing and engineering |
| MEM14006 | Plan work activities |
| MEM16006 | Organise and communicate information |
| MEM16008 | Interact with computing technology |
| MEM17003 | Assist in the provision of on the job training |
| MEM18001 | Use hand tools |
| MEM18002 | Use power tools/hand held operations |
| MSMENV272 | Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices |
Elective Units
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| MEM05005 | Carry out mechanical cutting |
| MEM07005 | Perform General Machining |
| MEM05050 | Perform routine gas metal arc welding |
| MEM07008 | Perform grinding operations |
| MEM07007 | Perform milling operations |
| MEM07006 | Perform lathe operations |
| MEM05007 | Perform manual heating and thermal cutting |
| MEM09003 | Prepare basic engineering drawing |
| MEM07032 | Use workshop machines for basic operations |
| MEM18011 | Shut down and isolate machines/equipment |
| MEM18003 | Use tools for precision work |
| MEM18055 | Dismantle, replace and assemble engineering components |
| MEM11016 | Order materials |
| MEM12003 | Perform precision mechanical measurement |
| MEM18006 | Perform precision fitting of engineering components |
| MEM18009 | Perform levelling and alignment of machines and engineering components |
| MEM12006 | Mark off/out (general engineering) |
- – All applicants will complete a Pre-Training Review and a Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Skills (LLND) assessment as part of the enrolment process to ensure the course is suitable for their learning needs.
- – Eligibility For Government Funding in South Australia
- – You must be a resident of South Australia and be one of the following: an Australian or New Zealand citizen, an Australian permanent resident (including humanitarian entrants), or a temporary resident holding a valid visa with appropriate work rights.
- – Applicants from South Australia can confirm their eligibility for subsidised training by visiting www.skills.sa.gov.au.
- – Eligible applicants will complete a Pre-Training Review and a Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Skills (LLND) assessment as part of the enrolment process to ensure the course is suitable for their learning needs.
The assessment is conducted through a combination of knowledge tests, and skills tests.
The following outlines the assessment methods:
- Knowledge Test
The student is required to undertake a written knowledge test during study. This test will be provided to the student by the assessor at an arranged time and the student will be required to individually complete the test. The student may research their answers from the course training materials and notes.
- Skills Test
The student is required to demonstrate a range of skills whilst being observed by the assessor. These activities will be clearly explained and always relate to duties in relevant workplaces. These activities allow the assessor to observe the student apply their knowledge and skills during practical activity.
Students may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and course credits, which can significantly expedite the completion of the qualification. RPL acknowledges the skills and knowledge gained through previous work experience, formal and informal training, and other relevant activities. This process involves assessing an individual’s competencies against the unit requirements of the MEM31925 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade.
Students who have completed relevant courses or units from other accredited institutions may apply for course credits, thereby reducing the number of units they need to complete. These options provide a flexible pathway for students to achieve their educational and career goals more efficiently, recognising their existing expertise and qualifications.
To apply for RPL and/or course credits, submit an enquiry and obtain the relevant application form. You will need to complete this form and provide relevant documentation to support your application, such as existing qualifications and evidence of previous work experience. The cost for RPL and/or course credits varies based on the number of units of competency for which you gain recognition, the course fee structure, and any additional assessment or training required. You will receive an approximate cost tailored to your unique situation when you apply.
The MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade provides graduates with a nationally recognised trade qualification and a strong foundation for further education, technical specialisation, and career advancement within the engineering and manufacturing industry.
Upon successful completion, graduates may progress to higher-level vocational qualifications, including:
- MEM40119 Certificate IV in Engineering
- Diploma qualifications in Engineering or Engineering Technology
- Advanced Diploma qualifications in Engineering
- Other specialised engineering and manufacturing qualifications relevant to their career goals
Graduates may also pursue higher education pathways, including:
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology
- Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Manufacturing Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Other engineering, technology, or management-related degrees
Entry into higher education programs and any recognition of prior learning or credit transfer will depend on the admission requirements and policies of the receiving institution.
Graduates may further develop their expertise through specialised training and professional development in areas such as:
- Advanced mechanical fitting and machining
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining and programming
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Robotics and industrial automation
- Mechatronics and advanced manufacturing
- Mechanical equipment installation and commissioning
- Asset management and maintenance planning
- Quality assurance and engineering inspection
- Engineering project management and supervision
With relevant industry experience and further qualifications, graduates may progress into roles such as:
- Senior Mechanical Tradesperson
- Leading Hand
- Maintenance Supervisor
- Workshop Supervisor
- CNC Programmer
- Maintenance Planner
- Production Supervisor
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
- Technical Specialist
- Engineering Project Coordinator
- Operations Manager
- Trainer and Assessor
AIWER apprentices and experienced workers receive training and assessment support to help them achieve their professional goals. The MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade provides a valuable pathway to advanced technical qualifications, specialised engineering careers, supervisory positions, and long-term professional development across Australia’s engineering, manufacturing, defence, mining, energy, and advanced technology sectors.
Student
Domestic
Duration
Apprenticeship: 2 to 4 years General: 1 to 2 years
Fee
- SA Funded (for eligible applicants)
OR
- Fee For Service
Fee For Service – Fee Structure
- Application Fee (not refundable): AUD $250
- Tuition Fee: AUD $12,000
- Materials Fee: AUD $1,100
- RPL applicants and individuals with relevant industry experience may be eligible for reduced tuition fees. Contact our Admissions Team to discuss your eligibility.
Mode of Delivery
- Workplace
- Apprenticeship
Campus
Location
REGENCY PARK,
South Australia
Intake
Available every month. Please contact AIWER Admissions staff for an exact monthly intake date.
- 02 Feb 2026
- 23 Feb 2026
- 16 Mar 2026
- 27 Apr 2026
- 18 May 2026
- 15 Jun 2026
- 20 Jul 2026
- 17 Aug 2026
- 12 Oct 2026
- 02 Nov 2026