Fine mechanic

As a precision mechanic you work with precision down to hundredths of a millimetre. You manufacture and assemble small precise parts and mechanical devices — often for measuring equipment instruments medical devices or special machinery. You become the craftsperson who can make components where there is no room for deviation.

§What do you do in everyday life?

You work at lathes and milling machines, often CNC-controlled, and you constantly measure yourself towards the exact right dimension. You read technical drawings, choose material and tools, produce the parts and assemble them into a precise unit. It is calm, concentrated work where patience pays off.

• 01You learn to read technical drawings and tolerances.
• 02You learn to operate lathe, milling, and CNC machines.
• 03You learn to measure precisely with fine measuring instruments.
• 04You learn to choose the right materials and processing methods.
• 05You learn to assemble and adjust fine mechanical units.
• 06You learn to work with high precision and quality control.

§How do you get started?

You start with a basic course at a vocational school and then find an apprenticeship in a precision engineering company. You get trainee wages and the education alternates between school and practical training so you learn both the theory of machining and the handling at the machines.

§The way forward

With the journeyman's certificate you can work in industrial medico and instrument companies that need precision parts. With experience you can specialise in CNC programming or prototype manufacturing and you can build on with further education in production and technology.

“A hundredth too much is too much — and it is precisely that difference a fine mechanic makes his living from hitting.”