Fitter & Turner / Maintenance Fitter - R&D

• World Leading international organisation with a dynamic brand
• Rewarding role where you can grow and apply your knowledge to become a technical expert
• Tonsley Innovation District in Adelaide (SA)
• Full-time position working with global teams

ZEISS is an international leader in the optics and opto-electronics industries. The ZEISS Group develops and distributes semiconductor manufacturing equipment, measuring technology, microscopes, medical technology, eyeglass lenses, camera and cine lenses, binoculars and planetarium technology. With its solutions, the company constantly advances the world of optics and helps shape technological progress.

We have an exciting opportunity for a trade qualified Fitter & Turner / Maintenance Fitter, or equivalent mechanical trade to join our R&D Australia team in Tonsley.  This position provides hands-on technical support to R&D Australia, along with supporting the development, build, maintenance and improvement of prototype equipment, test fixtures, mechanical systems and ophthalmic lens production processes.

This position works across practical workshop activities, equipment troubleshooting, machine qualification, prototype fabrication and general R&D equipment support.  It also contributes to technology development activities involving surfacing, CEF (cut, edge, fit) and related lens shaping processes used in spectacle lens production. 

The key responsibilities for this position include (but not limited to):

• R&D and process support: Support technology and process development projects for spectacle lens production, with a focus on practical implementation, quality and productivity.
• Equipment operation and troubleshooting: Operate, maintain and troubleshoot surfacing, CEF and auxiliary equipment in accordance with engineering specifications and standard work instructions.
• Prototype development: Manufacture, assemble, modify and improve prototype equipment, test fixtures and mechanical systems.
• Machine and technology qualification: Assist with qualification activities for new machines, technologies and processes used in ophthalmic lens production.
• Workshop management: Maintain the R&D engineering workshop, including lathes, milling machines, welding equipment, tooling and associated workshop systems.
• Technical support: Provide practical technical support to R&D equipment, process issues and mechanical services.
• Collaboration: Work with local and international stakeholders and participate in global collaboration activities when required.

The key requirements for this role include:

Education and trade qualifications:

• Trade qualification as a Fitter & Turner, Maintenance Fitter or equivalent mechanical trade.

Relevant experience:

• Demonstrated experience operating, maintaining and troubleshooting mechanical workshop and production equipment.
• Practical experience using lathes, milling machines, welding equipment and associated workshop tooling.
• Experience fabricating, assembling, modifying and improving mechanical systems or prototype equipment.
• Ability to read, interpret and work from engineering drawings.
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting capability and practical problem-solving skills.
• Experience or strong interest in CNC machining, 3D printing, additive manufacturing and 3D CAD modelling using Autodesk Inventor, Fusion or compatible software.
• Exposure to PLC-controlled equipment, automation systems, pneumatic systems and pneumatic logic.
• B-Class Electrical License, or willingness to undertake training to obtain this.

Technical skills and capabilities:

• Safely operate CNC equipment, lathes, milling machines, welding equipment, 3D printers and related workshop tools.
• Apply sound workshop practices, attention to detail and a high standard of workmanship.
• Use 3D CAD and manufacturing software, including Inventor, Fusion or equivalent systems.
• Interpret engineering drawings and translate design intent into practical workshop outcomes.
• Communicate clearly in English, both written and verbal.
• Work independently, take ownership of assigned tasks and contribute effectively in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams.
• Demonstrate curiosity, creativity, adaptability and enthusiasm for hands-on problem solving.
• Organise and support multiple work activities, helping ensure tasks and projects are delivered on time.
• Use basic computer and IT systems confidently.
• Be available for occasional international travel and flexible working hours when required for global team collaboration.

What’s great about working at ZEISS:

• Exclusive discounts on ZEISS lenses, sunglasses, and other optical products.
• Employee Benefits program with access to hundreds of everyday savings across 9,000+ locations.
• Corporate discount on private health insurance.
• Modern office, close to public transport, with onsite parking available.
• Supportive, family‑friendly workplace culture.
• Proudly foundation‑owned, with a long‑term vision and strong values.

If you have the required skills and passion to join our team, please apply now!

You must have the right to live and work in this location to apply for this role.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:

Kylie Bruce