Robert Solomone
Thornlie
Summary
Experienced mechanical fitter and welder with a proven track record in the marine, rail, and manufacturing sectors. Having built a strong foundation in servicing engines, welding, and managing workshop machinery, I am now seeking a new challenge within the Australian mining industry. I recently completed targeted training in underground mining operations and am confident I can contribute immediately in roles such as Underground Truck Operator, Nipper, Service Crew, or Drillers Offsider. Safety-focused, physically fit, and mechanically skilled, I bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to team success in remote FIFO environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Mechanical Fitter.
KiwiRail
Christchurch, New Zealand.
05.2021 - 04.2025
- Acted as Team Leader during key shifts, coordinating task assignments, supervising workshop operations, and ensuring all work was completed in accordance with daily safety protocols and operational priorities
- Performed regular servicing and fault diagnostics on Caterpillar diesel generators and pneumatic door systems, maintaining strict adherence to preventative maintenance schedules and reporting procedures aligned with FIFO site standards
- Executed coded welding tasks using ARC, MIG, and TIG techniques for structural repairs and component fabrication; consistently followed hot work permitting, ventilation procedures, and post-weld inspections in line with industry compliance
- Conducted detailed inspections and mechanical repairs on train couplers, brake systems, and undercarriage assemblies, identifying wear or defects that could compromise operational safety or system performance
- Performed brake and airbag testing procedures under regulated safety frameworks, ensuring all components met strict compliance codes; replaced or reconditioned parts as needed to maintain safe operating conditions
- Identified, repaired, and replaced internal carriage fixtures including toilet systems, dryers, handrails, and doors; worked within confined spaces and applied correct PPE for chemical and hygiene exposure risks
- Safely operated shunt locomotives to reposition carriages in correct configuration; performed task-based risk assessments, engaged spotters when needed, and communicated with control personnel to prevent movement hazards
- Participated in daily pre-starts and toolbox meetings, actively raising hazards, contributing to job safety analyses (JSAs), and supporting team awareness of worksite risks and near-miss prevention strategies
- Maintained high standards of housekeeping and adhered to clean-as-you-go policies, keeping all work zones free from obstruction, trip hazards, and contamination risks
- Consistently demonstrated readiness for FIFO conditions including early starts, shift rotations, fatigue management, and alignment with remote team culture and expectations
Production Manager / HVAC Duct Fabricator.
Express Sheetmetal Ltd
Christchurch, New Zealand.
10.2014 - 04.2021
- Managed multiple concurrent HVAC ducting and industrial fabrication projects in a high-output workshop environment, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, deadlines, and safe work practices aligned with industry expectations
- Oversaw the daily operations of the workshop, including delegation of tasks, conducting informal safety briefings, and ensuring compliance with internal WHS policies and procedures; promoted a culture of accountability and hazard awareness
- Conducted machine pre-start inspections and maintenance scheduling for Lock Form, Guillotine, Swagers, and Coil Line equipment; ensured machinery was tagged out correctly for faults and returned to service only after approval and safe repair
- Identified workflow bottlenecks through hands-on review of workshop output and implemented procedural changes that increased safety, reduced injury risk (manual handling, tool fatigue), and improved production efficiency
- Fabricated and installed customised HVAC spiral duct fittings using a variety of sheet metal fabrication techniques; followed engineering drawings and work orders with precision to ensure compliance with client requirements and tolerances
- Supervised the safe use of powered forming machinery including Spiro Tube Former, roller machines, and manual fabrication tools; enforced correct guarding procedures, lockout systems, and noise/dust control measures as per worksite guidelines
- Participated in daily informal toolbox talks and proactively contributed to safety initiatives; helped reinforce clean-as-you-go practices, the use of safety signage, and clear walkways throughout the workshop
- Maintained high housekeeping standards in all work areas, ensuring compliance with FIFO-style site expectations for hygiene, slip/trip hazard prevention, and tool/material organisation
- Demonstrated strong situational awareness and commitment to teamwork—key qualities for adapting to FIFO rosters, remote site expectations, and participating in high-functioning operational teams
Mechanical Fitter/Welder.
Coastal Source Engineering
Suva, Fiji.
08.2012 - 08.2014
- Carried out full-service overhauls and corrective maintenance on Caterpillar, Perkins, and Cummins diesel engines and generator sets, applying OEM manuals and compliance checklists to ensure engine reliability under continuous use in remote or marine environments
- Performed pressure testing on engine heads, heat exchangers, and oil cooler systems using calibrated gauges and diagnostic equipment; documented findings and carried out repairs to eliminate leaks, micro-fractures, or thermal inefficiencies while adhering to safety procedures
- Conducted welding techniques using MIG, TIG, and Stick methods across a variety of materials including stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminium; operated under strict hot work permit conditions, ensured fire safety measures were in place, and followed job safety analysis (JSA) procedures prior to commencement
- Installed and aligned marine engine systems, drive shafts, and couplings with high mechanical precision using dial indicators and laser alignment tools; ensured all fastenings met torque and vibration specifications to minimise failure risk in high-demand conditions
- Demonstrated situational awareness while working in confined engine rooms and workshop environments, complying with confined space entry procedures and ensuring appropriate ventilation, communication, and escape protocols were followed
- Maintained full awareness of isolation, LOTO (Lockout/Tagout), and stored energy procedures while working on live systems or disassembled equipment; used signage, tag-out boards, and lock kits to communicate work status and prevent injury
- Participated in informal pre-starts and toolbox meetings, contributing to team safety culture by reporting potential hazards and raising job-specific risks prior to shift start
- Practiced strong housekeeping discipline, maintaining clear walkways, labelled equipment zones, and PPE-compliant workstations, ensuring alignment with FIFO mining expectations around site safety and operational readiness
- Proven ability to manage fatigue, maintain concentration during extended shifts, and operate effectively in physically demanding environments under pressure—all key attributes for high-risk FIFO and underground mining settings
Mechanical Fitter/Welder.
Baywater Engineering
Suva, Fiji.
08.2008 - 08.2012
- Supported marine diesel engine maintenance and generator system servicing
- Completed two years engine watch onboard Rolls Royce and Caterpillar marine engine vessels
- Removed and refitted propellers, shafts, and bearings on commercial vessels
- Applied multiple welding techniques (MIG, TIG, Stick, Flux Core) across industrial projects
- Enforced workshop safety standards including proper PPE usage and tool tagging procedures
- Conducted informal toolbox talks and contributed to incident prevention practices across shifts
- Maintained high situational awareness while servicing electrical and pneumatic systems under pressure
- Complied with daily job safety analysis (JSA) procedures and hazard reporting protocols
- Conducted safety inspections on forming machines and welding bays
- Demonstrated readiness for confined space tasks and ventilation awareness in duct fabrication
- Operated in high-risk marine environments, following isolation and lockout/tagout procedures
- Supported preventative maintenance schedules aligned with industry safety standards
- Committed to clean-as-you-go and safe housekeeping practices on job sites
- Performed maintenance on high-powered diesel engines with a focus on operational safety and compliance
- Followed standard operating procedures during refit projects to avoid workplace injuries
- Worked with heat, pressure, and rotating equipment under strict safety oversight
Education
Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Level 4 - Mechanical Engineering
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand12-2022
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
Fiji Institute of Technology
Suva, Fiji02-2007
Certification
- First Aid / CPR.
- Working at Heights.
- Confine Space.
- Gas test Atmospheres
- Drivers Licence
- Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 4).
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Introduction to Underground Mining Certificate of Achievement.
- How a Hardrock mine works, Scaling, Watering down, Nipper Duties.
- Basic Service Crew Operations, Safe Use of Hand Tools.
- Truck & IT Operations Certificate of Achievement
- Pre-starting & Operating the Truck, Driving Up & Down Declines
- Getting & Dumping Loads, Effective Radio Communications
- IT Operations & Attachments
- High Risk Work Licence (LF & LO Forklift)
- Forklift Operator Certificate
- Remote and Pendant Overhead Crane
- Overhead Welding Ticket AS/NZS ISO 9606.1
- Vertical Welding Ticket AS/NZS ISO 9606.1
- Skilled in welding methods: MIG, TIG, ARC, Oxy-Acetylene
- Competent in Microsoft Office, schematic reading, SCADA & workshop management
Timeline
Mechanical Fitter.
KiwiRail
05.2021 - 04.2025
Production Manager / HVAC Duct Fabricator.
Express Sheetmetal Ltd
10.2014 - 04.2021
Mechanical Fitter/Welder.
Coastal Source Engineering
08.2012 - 08.2014
Mechanical Fitter/Welder.
Baywater Engineering
08.2008 - 08.2012
Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Level 4 - Mechanical Engineering
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
Fiji Institute of Technology