What they do
Textile mechanics set up, adjust and maintain machines used in textile, clothing and footwear industries.
They generally perform tasks that include diagnosing and fixing faults, repairing and replacing faulty parts and overall ensuring shifts run smoothly.
Working conditions
Textile, Footwear and Clothing Mechanics usually work shifts. They will generally work in a factory environment such as a spinning or weaving mill, shoe or clothing factory. The environment will usually be well lit, but may be noisy, oily and dusty with high volumes of active machinery and people. Some of the paints and dyes used in textiles, clothing and footwear may be both noxious and flammable.
Tools and technologies
A Textile, Footwear and Clothing Mechanic may use: spanners; wrenches; Allen keys; screw drivers; vernier and calliper gauges; taps and dies; assorted drifts, punches and chisels; hammers; drills; pullers and extractors and diagnostic tools, such as ammeter/voltmeter. Compressors may be used to power machines and air tools to minimise risk of fire.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a textile mechanic you usually need to undertake a textile clothing footwear mechanic apprenticeship. The apprenticeship usually takes 48 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.