Machining a wide range of metals

Production mechanics work in mechanical engineering companies. They machine metal components and assemble them into devices, appliances and machines. This requires them to read and understanding production documents and technical drawings. They prepare the required work equipment. They complete their assignments and projects accurately and independently, sometimes also in a team and together with other professionals.

Production mechanics mainly work with metals such as steel, chrome steel and aluminium. They also work with plastics. They are proficient in machining and joining techniques such as drilling, turning, milling and grinding. They shear, edge, bend and punch. They screw, solder, rivet and weld. Using modern automatic lathes, they might produce precision turned parts for the watchmaking industry, for example, or use grinding machines to machine circular saw blades or other tools.

Production mechanics manufacture appliances, devices, machine parts and even entire steel structures. They continuously monitor series production on computer-controlled machines such as laser or waterjet systems and intervene when necessary. If they find any deviations, they correct the settings on the production equipment. They also use lathes and milling machines to produce precision-made parts. They treat various parts with heat, which makes them hard and resistant to wear. Their responsibilities also include computer-controlled tool sharpening. After production, they use measuring instruments to check the quality of the parts.

Production mechanics assemble and install individual parts on assemblies. The assembled devices, appliances and machines can be anything from tiny medical devices such as pumps, to very large machines that require lifting platforms in order to be moved. After assembly, the production mechanics check and maintain the finished machines. If necessary, they take them apart and replace individual mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic elements.

When working, production mechanics must adhere to the applicable safety regulations. For example, they wear gloves and protective goggles when welding. They are responsible for protecting their own health and the environment.

Requirements

  • Completed primary school
  • Interest in technical matters
  • Practical understanding
  • Technical understanding
  • Ability to imagine things spatially
  • Excellent manual dexterity
  • Enjoy working by hand and with machines
  • Accurate and careful approach to working
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Reliability

Duration

3 years

Vocational school

One day per week at the vocational school

Professional relationships

Production mechanics work in production departments of companies in the mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and metals industries (the MEM sector). Thanks to their broad education, they are versatile employees and have good job prospects.

Further education perspectives

Courses

Offers from vocational schools and higher technical colleges, from professional associations such as Swissmechanic and Swissmem.

EFZ Polymechanic
Production mechanics can complete a fast-track basic training programme as an EFZ Polymechanic (entry into 2nd year of basic training).

Professional examination (BP)
With Swiss Federal Vocational Diploma (eidg. Fachausweis): e.g. production specialist, aircraft technician – mechanics/avionics, automation specialist, technical business administrator

Higher professional examination (HFP)
Industrial foreman

Institute of higher vocational education (Höhere Fachschule – HF)
e.g. Dip. Technician HF Mechanical Engineering, Dip. Technician HF Electrical Engineering, Dip. Technician HF Systems Engineering, Dip. Technician HF Microtechnology

University of Applied Sciences
With an appropriate degree, e.g. Bachelor of Science (FH) in mechanical engineering, automotive and vehicle engineering, systems engineering or mechatronics

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