Do you have an engineering mind, but want hands on work and to be paid while you study and gain practical experience in some of South Australia's leading Defence Companies? Start your career in CNC machining with a hands-on apprenticeship in South Australia’s growing defence and shipbuilding industry. PEER, in partnership with the Commonwealth and South Australian Governments and TAFE SA, is delivering the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways (SEP) Initiative—designed to build Australia’s skilled workforce for naval shipbuilding, submarine, and sustainment programs. As part of this initiative, PEER offers a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical (Machining), providing hands-on experience in CNC machining and precision manufacturing while working with leading defence employers. About You Interested in CNC machining, manufacturing, and engineering Enjoy hands-on, detail-focused work Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail Strong maths and basic computer skills Reliable and committed to completing a 4-year apprenticeship About the Apprenticeship: Get paid while completing a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical through PEER and TAFE SA, Regency Park, with on-the-job experience, hosted with leading defence employers across SA. Work with advanced manufacturing technology Gain experience with leading defence companies Build a long-term career in a high-demand industry You’ll learn to: Operate CNC lathes and CNC milling machines Produce precision-machined components to exact tolerances Interpret technical drawings and specifications Set up and adjusting CNC machines Use precision measuring tools to ensure accuracy and quality Perform machining processes including turning, milling, and drilling Monitore machining operations and making adjustments as required Ideal for school leavers, career changers, or anyone wanting to build a career in defence. Who are we: PEER is a non-profit industry-based organisation, a Group Training Organisation (GTO) and an award-winning Registered Training Organisation (RTO), delivering nationally accredited training packages to meet South Australia’s skill development needs. With 87,000 people trained, 92% apprentice completion rates, 98% of apprentices employed on completion and over 5,600 apprentices trained, we are the largest employer of apprentices within the Building and Construction industry in SA. We welcome applications form all backgrounds and experience levels however, due to the defence orientation of this role, successful candidates must be eligible to obtain an appropriate level of defence Security Clearance, as defined in the AGSVA guidelines. PEER are neurodiversity-inclusive, please let us know if there are any reasonable adjustments or support you may require. Please note, should your application progress, you will be required to complete pre-employment checks. These checks may include but are not limited to, aptitude testing, reference checks, national police check, citizenship check, working with children check and a medical – drug and alcohol testing. Key Dates: Commencement Date: 13th July 2026 Applications close: Friday May 28th Assessment Centre and Interviews: Late May / Early June
