ENGINEERING MECHANICAL APPRENTICESHIP - DEFENCE INDUSTRY

Various hosts across SA
Earn while you learn
Nationally recognised qualification
Build skills in machining, fitting, fabrication and advanced manufacturing

Looking for a hands-on career in one of Australia's fastest-growing industries?

PEER is seeking motivated individuals to undertake a Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical, combining formal training with real-world experience in South Australia's thriving defence and advanced manufacturing sectors through the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways Initiative.

As an Engineering Mechanical Apprentice, you'll develop practical skills across machining, fabrication, mechanical fitting, welding, precision measurement, technical drawing interpretation and equipment maintenance while working alongside some of the industry's most experienced tradespeople.

Through a combination of training at TAFE SA and practical workplace experience with leading defence and manufacturing employers, you'll gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to build a long-term career in engineering.

You will learn how to:

Use hand and power tools safely and effectively
Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation
Perform machining operations including lathe and milling work
Conduct engineering measurements and precision mechanical measurement
Repair, fit and assemble engineering components
Undertake welding, cutting and fabrication activities
Diagnose mechanical faults and maintain engineering equipment
Work with modern engineering technologies and manufacturing systems

Hosted placements may be available with leading South Australian defence and advanced manufacturing organisations including BAE Systems, Axiom Precision Manufacturing, Stärke-AMG, Levett Engineering, Supashock, MacTaggart Scott, LaserMech, Shadbolt, LAI Group, Hephaestus Global, Brook Engineering and more.

PEER, in partnership with the Commonwealth and South Australian Governments and TAFE SA, is delivering the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways (SEP) Initiative, helping to develop the skilled workforce required for Australia's naval shipbuilding, submarine and sustainment programs.

What's in it for you?

Paid, full-time apprenticeship
Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical
Industry-leading training and mentoring
Experience with defence and advanced manufacturing employers
Nationally recognised qualification
Strong career opportunities in a high-growth sector
Supportive team environment
No HECS debt

About You

We're looking for people who are:

Hands-on and practical
Interested in engineering, manufacturing or how things work
Motivated to learn and develop new skills
Reliable, safety-focused and committed
Strong communicators who work well in a team
Interested in building a long-term trade career

No previous engineering experience is required.

Whether you're finishing school, changing careers or looking for a practical alternative to university, this apprenticeship offers a pathway into a rewarding and future-focused industry.

Who Are We?

PEER is a non-profit Group Training Organisation (GTO) and award-winning Registered Training Organisation (RTO), delivering nationally accredited training and employing South Australia's largest building and construction apprentice workforce.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experience levels. Due to the defence industry focus of this role, successful applicants must be eligible to obtain an appropriate level of Defence Security Clearance as defined by AGSVA guidelines.

PEER is neurodiversity-inclusive and encourages applicants to discuss any reasonable adjustments or support requirements throughout the recruitment process.

Please note that successful applicants will be required to undertake pre-employment assessments which may include aptitude testing, reference checks, national police check, citizenship verification, working with children check and medical assessment including drug and alcohol screening.

Key Dates

Commencement Date: 13 July 2026

Applications Close: Friday 19th June 2026

Assessment Centre and Interviews: June 2026

Apply now and start your career in engineering, advanced manufacturing and Australia's defence industry.