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PMA30120 Certificate III in Process Plant Operations

PMA30120 Certificate III in Process Plant Operations

National ID PMA30120 State ID BGB2
Advance your career in process plant operations
Develop advanced skills for working in process manufacturing industries such as chemical, hydrocarbons and resources. You’ll learn to operate integrated plant systems, monitor complex processes, and respond to routine and unexpected issues. Training combines self-paced online learning with workplace practice, supported by experienced trainers and mentors. Suited to current workers, the course runs around two years and includes 21 units focused on technical skills, problem solving, and safe, efficient plant performance.
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Engineering and Mining

This course is part of the Lower fees, local skills initiative. From 1 January 2020 through to 31 December 2025 you'll only pay half the course fees, capped at $1,200; or $400 if you're aged 15—24 or eligible for a concession, plus resource fees and other fees that may apply to your course.

For more information click here

Overview

Campus Bunbury

When All year round

Study Mode Traineeship

Develop advanced skills required to operate and troubleshoot integrated process plant systems in a production environment. You will learn how to monitor and control plant operations, analyse and respond to operational issues, and apply process knowledge to solve both routine and non-routine problems. The course also strengthens your ability to work safely, interpret process data, conduct maintenance tasks, and contribute to continuous improvement in plant operations.

Do you want to learn how to:

  • Operate and monitor integrated plant systems and equipment
  • Troubleshoot process faults and respond to unexpected issues
  • Control and optimise process plant operations
  • Interpret process data, schematics and control systems
  • Operate and troubleshoot reactors and process control systems
  • Conduct hazard analysis and work safely in complex environments
  • Prepare, isolate and maintain plant equipment
  • Identify and apply process improvements in a production environment
  • Use workplace systems to record, monitor and report operational data

Then this is the Course is for you.

To make an informed choice about the suitability of this course, please consider the essential skills and knowledge below. You must:

  • Value safety in the workplace for yourself and others
  • Be willing to follow emergency procedures and respond appropriately in an emergency
  • Have effective communication skills, including English reading and writing
  • Have a suitable level of fitness to undertake practical, workplace-based tasks
  • Be able to apply problem-solving skills, including troubleshooting complex issues
  • Show strong attention to detail when monitoring and analysing process information
  • Be able to work effectively as part of a team
  • Be able to follow instructions and comply with Work Health and Safety procedures
  • Be currently working in, or have access to, a process plant environment 

Time Commitment: You will need to allocate appropriate time to complete this course. This includes attending classes on-site and/or online as outlined in the study mode; undertake independent study outside of class hours, including private study, assessment preparation, research and complete assessment requirements.

On average, you should expect to commit around 5 hours per week of independent study in addition to your normal work duties over approximately 2 years.

  • Respectful Communication - Interact with people from different backgrounds, share ideas effectively and build trust.
  • Teamwork – Collaborate with others, show them respect, and be open to feedback.
  • Problem Solving - There is always a solution. How do you respond to a challenge? If you spot a problem, we encourage you to ask questions, clarify as needed, and respond appropriately within your training.
  • Initiative - Stay motivated, take proactive steps, and seek help when necessary.
  • Planning - Manage time well. Knowing how to prioritise and completing your tasks efficiently are crucial for your success.
  • Learning – Recognise what your strengths already are. Then embrace all the new knowledge and experience from your South Regional TAFE journey to grow as a student.
  • Technology - Adapt to new tools, access digital resources, and integrate technology into your learning.

Important information

Select your preferred campus and apply

All year round, 2026

Details

Duration 12 Months
When All year round, 2026
Where Bunbury
How Traineeship - Workplace - South 32

Units

Core

National ID Unit title
MSMENV272 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
MSMSUP100 Apply workplace context to own job
MSMSUP102 Communicate in the workplace
MSMWHS110 Follow emergency response procedures
MSMWHS200 Work safely

Elective

National ID Unit title
MSL952001 Collect routine site samples
MSMPER200 Work in accordance with an issued permit
MSMPER202 Observe permit work
MSMPER205 Enter confined space
MSMSUP101 Clean workplace or equipment
MSMSUP240 Undertake minor maintenance
MSMSUP303 Identify equipment faults
MSMWHS201 Conduct hazard analysis
MSMWHS217 Gas test atmospheres
MSMWHS218 Control the risks of falls
PMAOPS101 Read dials and indicators
PMAOPS201 Operate fluid flow equipment
PMAOPS205 Operate heat exchangers
PMAOPS232 Operate filtration equipment
PMAOPS236 Monitor continuous process plant
PMAOPS246 Operate separation equipment
PMAOPS260 Conduct screening operations
PMAOPS280 Interpret process plant schematics
PMAOPS317 Undertake ship transfer operations
PMAOPS343 Transfer bulk fluids into/out of storage facility
PMASUP244 Prepare and isolate plant

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