Why can't I find a good Fitter and Turner?

That’s what we keep hearing – especially in the Sydney market. A good Fitter and Turner is hard to find!

So we’ve been asking around to find out what’s going on.

Let’s start with the dwindling numbers entering this profession:

• There is less pull towards a job in labour-intensive work, where you’re likely to get a bit dirty, has lost its … ah hem… shine. 
• One look at a 1st Year Apprentice hourly rate is an immediate turn off
• Those still keen for an apprenticeship are finding it harder to get a placement with fewer apprenticeship and traineeship programs on offer
• Some apprenticeships aren’t being considered over because of a lack of interest (or understanding) of the company’s industry – such as waste management

But what about those already trade-qualified?

• Industry-specific fitters have often moved on to different industries or project work
• Common talk is that the big dollars aren’t here in the city – they’re out in the mines and with FIFO work
• Many of our Fitters have moved off the tools into ‘desk jobs’ or management roles in their sector (we know a few ex-Fitters who are now recruiters 😉)
• And simply: there is such a high demand for Fitters and Turners in manufacturing, mining, construction, recycling and waste management that there are not enough skilled workers to go around

But it IS possible to find the Fitters you need – you just have to know where to look, and more importantly, the right people to talk to.

• Trade schools: find out about up-and-coming tradies
• Consider taking on your own apprentices and trainees
• Industry Association and Union Groups: connect with their network of qualified workers
• Post on Job Boards: although be careful it doesn’t cost you a lot of money for very little quality return
• Social Media: LinkedIn is worth a shot, but in our experience, not many Fitters are here looking for work. Try some other sites but be careful you aren’t encroaching the ‘work world’ on their social space.
• Word of Mouth – referral programs tend to work well
• Look outside of your own industry – look for fitters from other fields whose experience still aligns with your business
• Recruitment Agencies: like Black Bear Solutions, who specialise in your industry, will already have these connections and be able to match you with a qualified Maintenance Fitter who will not only have the skills you need, but be a great company ‘fit’ as well (pun intended)

When making your decision to hire, especially those coming from other industries or with less experience, consider the following things:

• What is the skill deficit that needs to be bridged and how long will this take?
• compared with
• The cost of not having the position filled?
• Quality workers require competitive pay. Fitters know from word of mouth who are the high payers and who are not. And will flock to those who pay more.

Overall, you need to look at the potential of the candidate, and hire based on trainability, reliability and attitude. And ensure that a strong retention plan is in place.

Your next Mechanical or Maintenance Fitter is out there – give Black Bear Solutions a call so they can introduce you, and set you up for ongoing success.