Precision Instrument Maker and Repairer

• Assembles, calibrates, installs and overhauls mechanical precision instruments and equipment.

Work Tasks (may include any combination of the following):

• Assembles parts and sub-assemblies of precision instruments and locks, timepieces and firearms; dismantles precision instruments, locks, timepieces and firearms, repairing and replaces defective parts, and reassembles articles using hand and power tools and specially designed machines; calibrates precision instruments using standard weights and measures, jigs and fixtures, and hand tools to adjust and align parts and small balancing weights; may estimate costs and prepare quotes for repairs.

Work Environment:

• Works indoors, usually in small workshops associated with retail premises.
• Work spaces will usually be adequately heated and ventilated.

Work Function/Activity1:

• The physical demand is light to medium.
• Standing at workbenches or engineering machines such as grinders and lathes is likely.
• Sitting on stools at workbenches is frequently required.
• Employees frequently walk about the worksite to move equipment, supplies and carry out various tasks.
• Stretching up or across is not required.
• Squatting, crouching and/or kneeling is not a significant feature of the job.
• Twisting of the body or neck is not a significant feature of the job.
• Lifting, carrying or moving items is frequently required but is unlikely to exceed light to medium physical demand.
• Repetitive movements are required on an occasional to frequent basis.
• Driving is not a significant component of the job.
• Employees frequently use a range of hand and small power tools (e.g. small precision lathes, a range of precision hand tools such as soldering irons, pliers, cutters and micro-screwdrivers). They will also use precision measurement and may utilise electronic testing equipment.
• Bending is occasionally required when at workbenches.
• Mental activities necessary include practical, technical, mathematical and problem-solving skills.

Further Comments:

• There are limited opportunities for flexibility of movement.

Entry Requirements:

• A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification or at least three years of relevant experience. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.