Apprenticeship as a construction mechanic
‘I like to work in a varied way.’ Manuel, apprentice at ZI Jena GmbH, plant for sheet metal technology
What will you learn during your apprenticeship and how does it work?
The apprenticeship lasts three and a half years in the company and at vocational school. We learn various metalworking techniques, such as drilling, bending, folding, working on welding robots, as well as drawing and designing components. Basic knowledge is taught in the first year, and in the second year it becomes more specialised. There are also various supplementary courses offered by the Ostthüringer Ausbildungsverbund. – (East Thuringian Training Alliance.)
What products are manufactured here at ZI and where are they used?
We can produce almost anything that can be made from metal here – essentially complex device housings, functional assemblies and individual parts in small or large series.
Do you need a special talent for your apprenticeship?
If you have a penchant for crafts, you’re definitely in the right place. Maths is also important, as you have to calculate the parts beforehand. Imagination is also important: you are given a drawing and have to be able to visualise the finished part in three dimensions. And you have to be able to plan: work out a work plan, for example, first sawing, then welding, grinding, polishing and finally assembly.
What training opportunities are there?
There are plenty of qualification opportunities: for example, you can obtain a welder’s licence, train in quality management, become a technician, master craftsman and take various courses, for example in programming.
I also think it’s good that I can work in all metal professions and industries, as I have a very broadly diversified training as a construction mechanic. This opens up a wide range of opportunities. A monotonous desk job would really bore me – I want to design something and then manufacture it.
Facts and figures about apprenticeship as a construction mechanic
- Duration of the apprenticeship: 3.5 years
- Prerequisites: Secondary school leaving certificate
- Apprenticeship pay: approx. € 650 to € 1,300
Alternative vocational training occupations:
- Plant mechanic