Summary

Overview

Work History

Education

Skills

Certification

Awards

Affiliations

Timeline

Varun Lal

Mechanical Engineer & Civil Draftsman & Mechanical Fitter

Greenbank

Summary

As a Mechanical Fitter at Logan City Council, Queensland for 1 year, I specialize in maintaining waste water plants and water plant system, ensuring precise results by following work orders and instructions diligently. With 6 years of prior experience across diverse fields such as the energy sector, heavy automotive industry, and maintenance planning for food manufacturing, I bring expertise in manual handling, machinery repair, and HVAC system design. Proficient in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Ansys Fluent, and Finite Element Analysis, I excel in team leadership, project management, and mechanical engineering. With a passion for innovation and a track record of delivering high-quality results, I am motivated to continue expanding my skills and knowledge in the mechanical engineering field.

Overview

years of professional experience

Certifications

Languages

Work History

Mechanical Fitter

Logan City Council

12.2024 - Current

At Logan City Council's Sewage and Waste Plant, the mechanical fitter plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and upkeep of mechanical systems that support wastewater treatment and sewage management operations. The plant handles large-scale wastewater treatment, sewage pumping, and waste disposal, ensuring public health and environmental protection. As a Mechanical Fitter in this setting, my primary focus was on maintenance operations, repairs, and optimization of mechanical systems to maintain plant efficiency, safety, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Responsibilities
1. Equipment Maintenance: Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of critical mechanical equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, conveyors, and treatment plant machinery to ensure optimal functionality.
2. Repairs and Troubleshooting: Diagnose mechanical faults and perform repairs on pumps, mixers, compressors, and other plant equipment to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operations.
3. Installation and Upgrades: Install and commission new mechanical systems, upgrade existing systems, and perform retrofitting of components to enhance system reliability and efficiency.
4. Safety Compliance: Ensure all maintenance activities are carried out in compliance with safety standards, local regulations, and industry best practices to maintain a safe working environment for personnel.
Tasks Undertaken
1. Perform regular inspections of pumps, motors, and mechanical equipment used in sewage treatment processes, including sludge dewatering systems, screening machines, and sewage lifting stations.
2. Troubleshoot and repair mechanical failures, including the replacement of worn-out seals, bearings, and mechanical parts to reduce operational interruptions.
3. Calibration and maintenance of flow meters, pressure relief valves, and flow control valves to optimize plant operations and ensure accurate process control.
4. Maintain safety systems and emergency shutdown equipment to ensure safe plant operations during unforeseen events or breakdowns.
Standards/Codes Used
1. AS/NZS 4801: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems for maintaining workplace safety standards.
2. ISO 9001: Quality management standards for ensuring the consistency of mechanical operations and maintenance practices.
3. AS 4024: Safety standards for the design and installation of machines and systems, ensuring safety in mechanical work environments.
4. EPA Regulations: Compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency standards, ensuring mechanical systems adhere to local waste management and environmental protection laws.
5. Manufacturer Specifications: Adherence to the equipment manufacturer guidelines for repair, installation, and maintenance procedures.
Software using:
Microsoft Excel: Used for maintaining maintenance logs, tracking equipment performance, and creating maintenance schedules.
AutoCAD: Used to review and update mechanical system layouts for the sewage plant, including pump stations and pipeline configurations.
CMMS Software: Utilized Computerized Maintenance Management Software for tracking maintenance activities, logging faults, and scheduling preventive maintenance tasks.
Nature Of Dealing:
Internal Communication: Coordinated with supervisors and maintenance teams via Microsoft Teams to address operational issues, allocate resources, and ensure efficient troubleshooting processes.
Supplier Interaction: Regular face-to-face meetings with suppliers for ordering mechanical parts, including valves, pumps, and motors, ensuring the plant meets operational and safety standards.
Contractor Coordination: Worked closely with contractors for large-scale projects such as the installation of new filtration systems or upgrades to mechanical equipment, ensuring compliance with project timelines and safety regulations.
How engineering competencies were applied:
Project Management Skills: Managed the scheduling and execution of major maintenance projects, including the replacement of critical pumps and upgrading sludge processing systems to enhance plant performance.
Maintenance Planning: Developed preventive maintenance schedules for key plant systems such as the sewage treatment pumps and clarifiers, ensuring timely repairs and minimizing downtime.
Sustainable Solutions: Focused on improving the energy efficiency of the sewage treatment systems by retrofitting older equipment with more efficient components to reduce operational costs and energy consumption.
Problem-Solving and Innovation: Implemented innovative solutions to resolve recurring mechanical issues such as pump failures and inefficient sludge handling, reducing maintenance costs and improving overall plant reliability.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Pump System Optimization: Conducted an overhaul of the primary sewage pump system, replacing outdated pumps with energy-efficient models, resulting in a 15% reduction in energy consumption and a significant decrease in equipment downtime.
Upgrading Sludge Dewatering Equipment: Refurbished and upgraded the sludge dewatering centrifuge, improving processing efficiency and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.
Improved Mechanical Reliability: Led a project to replace worn-out valves and seals in the plant’s sewage treatment units, resulting in a 30% reduction in operational interruptions caused by valve failures.

Founder

Pasifika Renewable Consultants

01.2024 - Current

As the founder of Pasifika Renewable Consultants, I established the business to deliver sustainable energy consulting services across the Pacific region. The company focuses on supporting communities and governments with renewable energy planning, climate change adaptation, and project development in line with international funding mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Our consultancy provides expertise in solar, wind, and sustainable infrastructure projects, aiming to reduce fossil fuel dependency in island nations and enhance climate resilience.
Responsibilities
1. Business Development: Founded the consultancy, secured partnerships with regional organisations, and positioned the firm as a service provider for international funding opportunities.
2. Project Management: Led bids and prepared proposals for renewable energy and climate resilience projects funded by agencies like SPC (Pacific Community) and GGGI (Global Green Growth Institute).
3. Technical Advisory: Provided expertise in renewable energy integration, grid assessment, and sustainable construction design for Pacific Island nations.
4. Stakeholder Engagement: Built strong relationships with government officials, NGOs, and community leaders to align renewable energy solutions with national climate strategies.
5. Leadership: Oversaw a multidisciplinary team of engineers and consultants, ensuring projects met technical, financial, and social requirements.
Tasks Undertaken
1. Developed detailed bid proposals for Green Climate Fund readiness programmes in Vanuatu and energy assessments in Indonesia and Peru.
2. Conducted energy system assessments and drafted recommendations for renewable energy adoption in rural and urban communities.
3. Coordinated workshops with Pacific stakeholders to identify renewable energy priorities and capacity-building needs.
4. Designed business models for sustainable renewable energy projects to ensure long-term financial viability.
Standards / Codes Used
1. ISO 14001: Environmental management systems for ensuring sustainability in project design.
2. IPCC Guidelines: Climate resilience and adaptation frameworks applied to project assessments.
3. GCF Project Cycle Standards: Compliance with proposal formats and readiness programme requirements.
4. Australian/New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS): Applied to renewable energy engineering designs.
Software Used
Microsoft Excel & Power BI: For data analysis, financial modelling, and reporting.
AutoCAD & Civil 3D: For conceptual layouts of renewable infrastructure projects.
MS Teams & Zoom: For international stakeholder coordination and remote project delivery.
Nature of Dealing
Government Liaison: Worked with Pacific Island national designated authorities (NDAs) for GCF readiness activities.
International Partnerships: Collaborated with SPC, GGGI, and donor organisations on climate finance projects.
Community Engagement: Consulted with local communities to ensure solutions were culturally appropriate and practical.
How Engineering & Leadership Competencies Were Applied
Strategic Leadership: Founded and structured the consultancy to target renewable energy development across the Pacific.
Project Management: Oversaw proposal submissions and project implementation from inception to reporting.
Innovation: Designed tailored renewable solutions for island nations facing climate vulnerability.
Sustainability: Applied engineering principles to ensure solutions were cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally compliant.
Key Achievements
Secured Partnerships: Built strategic collaborations with SPC and GGGI for renewable energy readiness projects.
Project Delivery: Led successful submissions for multi-country renewable energy bids.
Community Impact: Promoted renewable energy adoption in Pacific Island communities, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Recognition: Established Pasifika Renewable Consultants as a credible consultancy within 1 year of founding.

Assistant Mechanical Fitter

Iceworld

05.2023 - 03.2024

Iceworld Queensland is a premier ice-skating facility in Boondall and Acacia Ridge, Brisbane, Australia. Boasting two Olympic-sized ice rinks, it offers a range of activities for both recreational skaters and competitive athletes. The venue hosts public skating sessions, figure skating and ice dancing lessons, ice hockey games, and birthday parties. Additionally, Iceworld Queensland serves as a training ground for aspiring figure skaters and ice hockey players, providing coaching and development programs led by experienced instructors as Assistant Mechanical Fitter in an ice rink supporting maintenance operations and equipment upkeep to ensure optimal performance and safety of ice rink facilities.
Responsibilities
1. Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and inspections on mechanical equipment such as chillers, ice resurfaces, HVAC systems, and refrigeration units to ensure optimal performance.
2. Repairs and Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair mechanical failures or malfunctions in equipment, including pumps, motors, valves, and hydraulic systems, to minimize delays and ensure safety.
3. Installation and Upgrades: Install new mechanical equipment and components and perform upgrades and retrofits to existing systems to improve efficiency, reliability, or compliance with safety standards. For example, adding new parts in ice resurface (Zamboni)
4. Safety Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols, procedures, and regulations while performing maintenance tasks to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and others.
Tasks Undertaken
1. We conduct routine maintenance inspections on chillers, ice resurfaces, HVAC systems, and other mechanical equipment.
2. Also lubricating moving parts, replacing worn-out components, and calibrating equipment settings to maintain optimal performance.
3. Responding to service calls or work orders to address equipment breakdowns, leaks, or malfunctions promptly.
4. Testing and adjusting system parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates to meet operational requirements.
Standards/Codes Used
1. ASHRAE Standards: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers standards for HVAC system design and operation.
2. ANSI Standards: American National Standards Institute standards for mechanical equipment safety, performance, and maintenance.
3. NFPA Standards: National Fire Protection Association standards for fire protection, electrical safety, and hazardous materials management in facilities.
4. Manufacturer Specifications: Equipment manufacturer specifications, guidelines, and recommendations for maintenance procedures, intervals, and performance criteria.
5. OSHA Regulations: Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations about workplace safety, equipment operation, and maintenance practices.
Software using:
Excel for calculating the chiller performances during summer and winter.
AutoCAD was used to design the ice rink's HVAC system to modify the rink's air circulation.
Hydraulic System Design Software: Hydraulic system design software such as Autodesk Fusion 360 Hydraulic Design Software is used for designing and analyzing hydraulic systems, including ice resurfacing machines.
Nature Of Dealing:
Mostly were dealt with using Microsoft Office teams where the clients had some complaints regarding the ice surface and from that call, we reviewed with the team how we can make the surface better.
With suppliers, it was face-to-face consulting where we dealt with parts of Zamboni and it meets the requirements of the machine.
How engineering competencies were applied:
Project Management Skills: Where our maintenance team was given a timeline to do major projects such as fabricating and installing the dump tank which involves hydraulic fitting to Zamboni and also the removal of barriers which needs a mechanical experience to keep the ice at a temperature to avoid melting.
Ensuring Continuity and Maintenance: Assign the responsibility for the ongoing maintenance towards ice and updating of new technologies, methodologies, and changes in the organization.
Develop safe and sustainable solutions- we always have to make the ice and the ice rink environment safe for the people that come in the rink by making ice resurface and always have a new blade for Zamboni, also highly maintain Zamboni so it does not emit too much carbon monoxide into the rink.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Replacement and Upgrade of Ice Rink Boards and Piping System - The project aimed to enhance the safety, functionality, and efficiency of the ice rink facility to meet current standards and operational requirements.
Conducted thorough analysis and solved a complex design of Zamboni machine where the snow always got frozen during the ice cutting hence designed a system where water was sprayed over the blade to prevent snow from freezing on the blade and make it easier to resurface the ice.
Hydraulic System Upgrades: Upgrading hydraulic systems used in ice resurfaces or other equipment to improve performance, reliability, and safety. This could involve replacing worn-out components, upgrading hydraulic pumps and valves, or retrofitting with advanced hydraulic control systems.
Name of the Engineering Projects
Chiller System Maintenance and Optimization: Mechanical fitters may be involved in maintaining and optimizing the chiller system responsible for cooling the ice surface. This project could include tasks such as inspecting and servicing chillers, calibrating temperature controls, and optimizing refrigerant efficiency to ensure consistent ice quality and energy efficiency.
Ice Resurface Refurbishment: Mechanical fitters may undertake a project to refurbish or upgrade ice resurfacing machines to enhance their performance and reliability. This could involve tasks such as overhauling engine components, replacing worn-out parts, upgrading hydraulic systems, and implementing automation features for improved operation.
HVAC System Upgrades: Mechanical fitters may be tasked with upgrading the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems within the ice rink facility.
Supervisor for this project: Don Nicholls (d.nicholls@iceworld.com.au)

Maintenances Planner

Flour Mills Of Fiji (FMF)

04.2022 - 04.2023

Suva Flour Mills Co Ltd, established by FMF, introduced Fiji's first flour mill, importing high-quality Australian wheat and producing flour for the market. Over time, it expanded its operations to include milling rice and peas, manufacturing biscuits, snacks like potato chips, taro chips, and cassava chips, producing instant noodles, and even manufacturing cardboard cartons. This diversification showcased FMF's adaptability and ambition to meet various consumer needs in Fiji. My role was to do maintenance planning for Biscuit, noodles and snacks
Responsibilities
Doing Maintenances planning for the biscuits factory, noodle line and snacks where I assign the jobs for all the technicians per day supervise the jobs they do and keep updating my head of departments for the maintenance that needs to be done after hours and also prepare a weekly report on the breakdown, performances of the staff and also update the machine quality check all the update is recorded in.
Resource Management: Coordinate the allocation of resources such as manpower, tools, spare parts, and equipment to ensure the timely completion of maintenance activities.
Work Order Generation: Generate work orders for preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance, and predictive maintenance tasks, specifying details such as scope, priority, and required resources.
Asset Documentation: Maintain accurate records and documentation of equipment specifications, maintenance history, warranty information, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Budgeting and Cost Management: Develop and manage maintenance budgets, monitor expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and optimize spending while ensuring maintenance effectiveness and reliability.
Inventory Control: Manage spare parts inventory levels, conduct regular inventory assessments, and coordinate procurement of critical spare parts to support maintenance activities.
Contractor Management: Coordinate with external contractors and service providers for specialized maintenance services, ensuring compliance with contractual agreements, safety standards, and quality requirements.
Standards/Codes Used
1. ISO 55000: Asset management standards for establishing an effective maintenance management system, optimizing asset performance, and achieving organizational objectives.
2. OSHA Regulations: Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations about workplace safety, hazardous materials handling, equipment operation, and maintenance practices.
3. NFPA Standards: National Fire Protection Association standards for fire protection, electrical safety, and hazardous materials management in manufacturing facilities.
Problems Addressed
1. Downtime Reduction: Minimizing unplanned downtime through proactive preventive maintenance planning and timely corrective actions.
2. Cost Optimization: Balancing maintenance costs with asset reliability and performance by optimizing maintenance schedules, resource allocation, and inventory management.
3. Compliance Assurance: Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, safety requirements, and environmental regulations through adherence to maintenance procedures and documentation.
4. Asset Reliability: Improving equipment reliability, availability, and maintainability through effective maintenance planning, execution, and performance monitoring.
Software using:
Inventory Management Software: Inventory management software helps maintenance planners manage spare parts inventory, track stock levels, and automate reordering AutoCAD is used to design the conveyor system to modify the manufacturing line just as adding an extra line to the biscuits cooling conveyor.
Preventative Plan software: CARL Software which was used by the company to preventative plans and also assign jobs to technicians per day.
Nature Of Dealing:
Mostly was dealing using Microsoft Office teams where the company for preventative plan software was contacted regarding any machine updates and also regarding technical issues.
How engineering competencies were applied:
FMF's engineering competencies were integral in several aspects of their diversified operations:
Flour Milling: engineering expertise in designing and operating milling machinery to process imported wheat into high-quality flour efficiently.
Rice and Pea Milling: Extending their milling operations to include rice and peas required adaptation of equipment and processes to handle different grains effectively. These likely involved modifications to milling machinery and specialized processing techniques.
Biscuit Manufacturing: Engineering competencies played a role in the design and operation of biscuit manufacturing machinery, ensuring precise control over ingredients, baking processes, and packaging.
Snack Manufacturing (Potato Chips, Taro Chips, Cassava Chips): FMF's engineering team likely designed and optimized manufacturing processes for producing a variety of snack products, including slicing, frying, seasoning, and packaging equipment.
Instant Noodles Manufacturing: Developing and refining the production line for instant noodles would have involved engineering expertise in machinery design, food processing technology, and packaging systems.
In each of these areas, FMF's engineering competencies would have been crucial for ensuring efficient and high-quality production processes, meeting regulatory standards, and innovating to stay competitive in the market.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Efficient Instant Noodles Production Line: FMF's engineering expertise would have been crucial in designing an efficient production line for instant noodles, incorporating advanced machinery for dough preparation, shaping, steaming, and packaging.
Innovative Snack Manufacturing Processes: FMF's engineering team likely developed innovative manufacturing processes for producing various snacks like potato chips, taro chips, and cassava chips, optimizing slicing, frying, seasoning, and packaging techniques.
Name of the Engineering Projects
Preventative Plan for all Machinery in FMF
Design and maintenance of Spiral Conveyor
Design and preventative plan for cup noodle
Supervisor for this project: Ashmit Prasad (ashmitprasad26@gmail.com)

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Temo Consulting

02.2021 - 04.2022

Temo Consulting is a company of professional engineers providing Engineering Consultancy and Project Management. Temo Consulting is predominantly a Services Engineering Consultancy; however, we are now also involved in Civil and Services Infrastructure Engineering. My role was to do for designing of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning) for clients and also do project management for specific projects.
Responsibilities
Designing HVAC systems for various buildings, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components.
Performing load calculations to determine the heating and cooling requirements of different spaces.
Select appropriate HVAC equipment, such as chillers, boilers, air handling units, and ductwork systems.
Conducting site visits and surveys to assess existing HVAC systems and identify areas for improvement or retrofitting.
Tasks Undertaken
Developing HVAC system layouts, schematics, and specifications using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Performing energy modelling and simulations to evaluate the performance and efficiency of HVAC designs.
Preparing engineering calculations, including duct sizing, pipe sizing, and equipment selection based on industry standards and project requirements.
Standards/Codes Used
ASHRAE Standards: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers standards for HVAC system design, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.
International Mechanical Code (IMC): Building code regulations governing the design, installation, and maintenance of mechanical systems, including HVAC systems.
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC): Energy code requirements for commercial and residential buildings, including HVAC system efficiency standards.
Problems Addressed
Inefficient HVAC Systems: Identifying and addressing inefficiencies in existing HVAC systems to improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, and enhance occupant comfort.
Indoor Air Quality Issues: Investigating indoor air quality complaints and implementing solutions to mitigate air pollutants, humidity levels, and ventilation deficiencies.
Compliance Challenges: Ensuring that HVAC designs comply with relevant building codes, energy standards, and environmental regulations.
Software using:
AutoCAD: Used for creating 2D drawings and drafting HVAC system layouts, schematics, and piping diagrams.
Revit MEP (Building Information Modeling): Enables the creation of 3D models of HVAC systems, facilitating coordination with other building disciplines (e.g., architecture, structural engineering) and generating detailed construction drawings.
Carrier HAP (Hourly Analysis Program): Used for performing load calculations, energy modelling, and HVAC system design analysis to determine heating and cooling requirements for building spaces.
Nature Of Dealing:
Mostly dealt using Microsoft Office Teams where the company for project updates and also used Zoom to give presentations on the progress projects.
How engineering competencies were integral in several aspects of their diversified operations:
Design: Engineering competencies are applied in the design phase of projects, where engineers conceptualize and develop plans for HVAC systems. This includes considering factors such as functionality, safety, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
Problem Solving: Engineers use their analytical skills to identify, define, and solve problems. This involves breaking down complex issues into manageable components and developing innovative solutions.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Advanced Materials Development: Researching and implementing cutting-edge materials with enhanced durability, strength, and environmental performance in construction projects, for example during the design of the project we try to give the client good quality material for HVAC, which can last longer and have more strength to last longer.
Data-driven Design and Analysis: Utilizing advanced data analytics and modelling techniques to optimize engineering designs, improve performance prediction, and reduce project risks.
Name of the Engineering Projects
Design and planning of HVAC for all popular hotels in Fiji
Coordinating mechanical drawing with electrical and fire drawing.
Preparing tender documents for clients
Supervisor for this project: Avin Kumar (akumar@temoconsulting.com)

Mechanical Fitter

Punjas & Son limited

01.2020 - 01.2021

Punjas Limited serves customers with a portfolio of iconic products that Fijians have grown up with and loved. They manufacture and distribute quality foods, beverages, household cleaning products, and cosmetics across the South Pacific. Some of their multinational partners include Anchor, Coca-Cola, Goodman Fielder, Heineken, and Diageo. My role was to do mechanical maintenance on the machine and also responsible for breakdown maintenance.
Responsibilities
Installed and maintained mechanical components such as engines, pumps, valves, compressors and gearboxes.
Adjusted functional parts of mechanical devices according to specifications
Performed preventative maintenance on manufacturing equipment and machinery.
Adjusted, maintained, and repaired various types of manufacturing equipment.
Followed detailed instructions from engineering personnel during production runs.
Calibrated measuring devices such as micrometers, and calipers.
Software using:
Excel software to do most calculations for production time vs downtime during breakdown maintenance.
Nature Of Dealing:
Understanding Needs and Expectations: Each machine operator has its own set of needs, interests, and expectations. Take the time to understand these factors and align your efforts with them. And making the machine adjustments regarding their adjustments.
How engineering competencies were integral in several aspects of their diversified operations:
Technical Knowledge: As a fitter, it requires a deep understanding of engineering principles relevant to machines. This includes knowledge of mechanical engineering, depending on the nature of the manufacturing involved.
Equipment Maintenance and Calibration: Engineering knowledge is essential for maintaining and calibrating manufacturing equipment. As a need to understand the underlying engineering principles behind the operation of machinery to perform preventive maintenance effectively and ensure equipment operates within specified parameters.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma: Engineering achievements in lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies have revolutionized process optimization and quality management in manufacturing. My company have implemented principles such as waste reduction, continuous improvement, and statistical process control to enhance productivity, minimize defects, and optimize resource utilization.
Precision Machining and Tooling: Advances in precision machining and tooling technologies have enabled manufacturing companies to achieve tighter tolerances, finer surface finishes, and higher production rates. This includes the development of high-speed machining, computer numerical control (CNC) systems, and advanced cutting tools that enhance machining accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.
Name of the Engineering Projects
New Product Development and Introduction: This project involves the development and introduction of new products or product variants to meet changing customer demands and market trends.
Development of Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: This project focuses on implementing sustainable manufacturing practices, such as waste reduction, energy efficiency improvements, and resource conservation initiatives, to minimize environmental impact and enhance long-term sustainability
Supervisor for this project: Monish Prakash ()

Engineering Coordinator

Sarava Navau Cane Harvesters

01.2018 - 01.2020

This sugarcane harvesting company specializes in the mechanized harvesting of sugarcane crops. Using specialized equipment such as sugarcane harvesters, they efficiently collect mature sugarcane stalks from the fields. These companies often provide comprehensive harvesting services, including cutting, loading, and transportation of the harvested cane to processing facilities. My role was to coordinate all machines that were up to date and also carry out major breakdown repairs, this role also required me to mostly lead the team as we had a group of trades from India that had language barriers.
Responsibilities
Coordination of Engineering Activities: Serve as the focal point for coordinating engineering activities related to sugarcane harvesting operations.
Equipment Maintenance and Repair: Oversee maintenance schedules, repairs, and servicing of harvesting machinery and equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
Team Management: Supervise engineering staff, allocate tasks, and provide guidance to ensure efficiency and productivity.
Tasks Undertaken
1. Equipment Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of harvesting machinery to identify wear and tear, potential issues, and maintenance requirements.
2. Scheduled Maintenance: Plan and schedule routine maintenance tasks such as lubrication, filter replacement, and component checks to prevent breakdowns and ensure equipment reliability.
3. Emergency Repairs: Respond promptly to equipment breakdowns or malfunctions, diagnose problems, and coordinate repair activities to minimize downtime.
Standards/Codes Used
1. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards: Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations for workplace safety, equipment operation, and hazardous materials handling.
2. ISO 9001 Quality Management System: Implement quality management processes and standards to ensure consistency, reliability, and customer satisfaction in engineering activities.
Software using:
Fleet Management Software: Software designed for managing a fleet of agricultural machinery, including sugarcane harvesters. This type of software helps track equipment usage, monitor maintenance schedules, and optimize fleet deployment for efficient harvesting operations.
GIS (Geographic Information System) Software: GIS software allows engineering coordinators to analyze geographic data related to sugarcane fields, such as soil types, terrain elevation, and field boundaries. This information can help optimize harvest routes, plan field operations, and improve overall productivity.
Nature Of Dealing:
Authorities: The engineering coordinator may liaise with government authorities or regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing agricultural operations. This could involve obtaining permits, licenses, or compliance certifications for operating sugarcane harvesters in specific regions.
Contractors: Engineering coordinators often collaborate with contractors who provide specialized services, such as equipment maintenance, repairs, or technical support. They may negotiate contracts, oversee contractor performance, and ensure that work meets quality standards and deadlines.
How engineering competencies were integral in several aspects of their diversified operations:
Project Management: Coordinating engineering activities requires strong project management skills to plan, organize, and oversee various tasks and projects effectively. I developed detailed project plans, established milestones and deadlines, allocated resources efficiently, and monitored progress to ensure the timely completion of engineering initiatives.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders, including authorities, contractors, clients, and suppliers, was crucial for the successful coordination of engineering activities. I communicated effectively, built rapport, and fostered collaborative relationships to align stakeholders' interests and achieve common goals in sugarcane harvesting operations.
List Key Engineering Achievements
Upgrades for Efficiency: Spearheaded initiatives to upgrade harvesting equipment with modern technologies, such as GPS guidance systems, automated controls, or improved hydraulic systems, resulting in enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and productivity in sugarcane harvesting operations.
Optimization of Harvesting Practices: Analyzed harvesting practices and workflows to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks, implementing improvements such as optimized harvesting routes, improved loading procedures, or streamlined maintenance processes to increase overall efficiency and throughput.
Name of the Engineering Projects
Enhancement of Harvesting Efficiency: This project focuses on improving the efficiency of sugarcane harvesting operations through process optimization, equipment upgrades, and workflow improvements. It may involve redesigning harvesting headers, optimizing cutting heights, and implementing real-time data analytics for decision-making.
Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: This project involves implementing environmental sustainability initiatives within sugarcane harvesting operations, such as reducing fuel consumption, minimizing soil compaction, and implementing soil conservation practices to promote long-term environmental stewardship.
Supervisor for this project: Vimlesh Kumar (sarojlal67@gmail.com)

Education

Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical

The University Of South Pacific

05.2021

Certificate IV - Engineering

Intech Institution Of Technology

05.2025

Advanced Diploma - Civil Design And Construction

Valley International College

02.2025

Skills

CAD Software (eg, AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
Intermediate: Proficient in creating detailed 2D drawings and moderately complex 3D models
CAE Software (eg, ANSYS):
Beginner: Familiarity with basic finite element analysis (FEA) concepts

MATLAB/Simulink:
Beginner: Basic proficiency in writing scripts, plotting data, and performing simple calculations
Programming Languages (eg, Python, C):
Beginner: Basic understanding of syntax and programming concepts

Certification

RIIHAN301E - Operate Elevating Work Platform

Awards

Internship/Co-op Achievement Award: Recognition for outstanding performance and contributions during internships for education experiences within the mechanical engineering industry by Energy Fiji Limited., Patents Awards: Recognition for inventing footstep generator with potential commercial and societal impact.
3rd Place, World Powerlifting Championship — USA 2024, Represented Australia in the 125kg weight class at the World Powerlifting Championship. Secured 3rd place among the world's best athletes

Affiliations

Professionals Australia (9529947)
Engineers Australia [EA - 9446640]
Engineering New Zealand (2012650)
Mechanical Engineering Group (MEG) – (2012650)
Special Interest Group for Immigrant Engineers (SIGIE) –(2012650)

Timeline

Mechanical Fitter

Logan City Council

12.2024 - Current

Founder

Pasifika Renewable Consultants

01.2024 - Current

Assistant Mechanical Fitter

Iceworld

05.2023 - 03.2024

Maintenances Planner

Flour Mills Of Fiji (FMF)

04.2022 - 04.2023

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Temo Consulting

02.2021 - 04.2022

Mechanical Fitter

Punjas & Son limited

01.2020 - 01.2021

Engineering Coordinator

Sarava Navau Cane Harvesters

01.2018 - 01.2020

Certificate IV - Engineering

Intech Institution Of Technology

Advanced Diploma - Civil Design And Construction

Valley International College

Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical

The University Of South Pacific

Varun Lal

Summary

Overview

Work History

Mechanical Fitter

Founder

Assistant Mechanical Fitter

Maintenances Planner

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Fitter

Engineering Coordinator

Education

Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical

Certificate IV - Engineering

Advanced Diploma - Civil Design And Construction

Skills

Certification

Awards

Affiliations

Timeline

Mechanical Fitter

Founder

Assistant Mechanical Fitter

Maintenances Planner

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Fitter

Engineering Coordinator

Certificate IV - Engineering

Advanced Diploma - Civil Design And Construction

Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical

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