Apprentice-Fitter/Machinist, UNSW Canberra

Employment type:   Fixed-term, full-time (35 hours per week)
Duration: Up to 4 years

Remuneration: Well above award rates plus leave loading and 17% superannuation 
Location: UNSW Canberra, ADFA Campus

About UNSW Canberra
University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Canberra has multiple locations in the Nation’s Capital.
UNSW Canberra distinguishes itself from other institutions by its commitment to being thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all endeavours. This combined approach is integral to the university's impact and contributes to its recognition as one of the top 20 universities globally, as well as a proud member of Australia's esteemed Group of Eight. Choosing a career at UNSW means embracing an environment where thriving, facing challenges, and engaging in meaningful work are not just encouraged but integral to the university experience. If you seek a career where you can excel and contribute meaningfully, you've found the right place.

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

Why Your Role Matters:

This exciting role for a 1st or 2nd year apprentice Fitter and Machinist offers the opportunity to work in modern, well-equipped workshops to obtain a trade certificate in Fitting and Machining. The successful applicant will gain experience in general, precision, and computerised (CNC) machining, grinding, sheet metal work, general fabrication and specialised welding facilities.

The role will consist of on-the-job training at UNSW Canberra and classroom education delivered by TAFE Wagga. The successful applicant will be required to travel to Wagga each month to attend a 5-day teaching block. Transport and accommodation costs will be covered by UNSW Canberra.

Responsibilities: 

• Undertake duties associated with learning the trade of fitting and machining
• Undertake duties associated with the learning of skills associated with metal fabrication, welding, sheet metal work and carpentry.
• Undertake instructional training at a registered technical college to learn the trade of fitting and machining.
• Perform other relevant duties as assigned by the Workshop Supervisor.

Who You Are (skills and experience): 

• Year 10 certificate (or equivalent)
• A demonstrated aptitude and interest in mechanical technology, metalwork, or woodwork
• Capacity and willingness to work as part of a team
• Capacity to fulfil both on the job and TAFE training components
• Excellent attention to detail.

Benefits and Culture:
UNSW is committed to helping staff balance work-life responsibilities, by providing access to high-quality services, facilities, and flexible work and leave arrangements.

• Flexible working options (work from home, flexible hours etc) 
• Additional three days leave during December festive period
• Career development opportunities 
• Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
• Flexible 17% superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments and salary sacrifice
• Free gym access
• UNSW-wide strategy to focus on Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Places and Healthy Culture. 

Eligibility: 

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at commencement of employment and must have completed a minimum Year 10 Certificate (or equivalent) with studies in mathematics, science, English and industrial arts to meet TAFE entry requirements for apprentice tradesperson course (Fitting and machining).

Applicants require a demonstrated aptitude and interest in mechanical technology, metalwork or woodwork, a capacity to fulfil on the job training, be able to work as part of a team and be able to accept close supervision and instruction.

The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencement in this role. The checks that will be undertaken are listed in the Position Description. You will not be required to provide any further documentation or information regarding the checks until directly requested by UNSW.  

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this position.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. 

How to Apply:

Make each day matter with a meaningful career at UNSW. Submit your application online before Sunday 11 February 2026 at 11:30pm, including your CV and a 2-page document discussing a creation, build or project you undertook in high school (or equivalent) and the subjects you studied that assisted in your understanding of how to complete the work. Make sure you include assistance you received. Please include at least two photos.

Get in Touch:

For role-related queries please contact:
Craig Young - Technical Services Manager
craig.young@unsw.edu.au

For recruitment process related queries please contact:
Holly Whale – Talent Acquisition Consultant
h.whale@unsw.edu.au

Applications cannot be accepted if sent directly to the contact listed.

Please note: Due to the annual university shutdown (December 23, 2025 – January 5, 2026) and the holiday period, there may be delays in responding to queries and providing updates on applications. We appreciate your patience during this time.

Find out more about the lifestyle and benefits when working with UNSW  

For further information about UNSW Canberra, please visit: UNSW Canberra 
For further information on living in Canberra, please visit: Living in Canberra

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.