At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect, maintain, and repair heavy construction machinery on-site and in the workshop.
- Company: Join VSL International, a leader in major infrastructure projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects like the Lower Thames Crossing and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in mechanical maintenance with heavy construction equipment experience.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
- Plant Mechanic – Job Alerts Link Apply now Job Description Plant Mechanic
- Job
- Location
- City: Tilbury, Tilbury OR Thames Estuary Country/Region: United
- Kingdom
- Contract
- Type: Fixed
- Term
- Contract
- Pole: TRAVAUX PUBLICS (AP003) Full/Part
- Time: Full Time Remote/Onsite: On-site/Office based
- Travel
- Requirements: Occasional travel Requisition ID: 3784 Information at a Glance
As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings.
VSL's business is based on four areas of expertise
- Structural systems and technologies
- Civil engineering
- Foundations and soil engineering
- Preservation, structural repairs, renovation and optimization of structures.
VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada).
Project
The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) is a major new road infrastructure scheme linking the A2/M2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Essex via a 2.6 mile twin bore tunnel beneath the River Thames—the longest road tunnel in the UK.
The 14.5 mile route incorporates new approach roads, upgrades to existing highways, and significant structures including bridges and viaducts.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Plant Mechanic to join our Plant Department.
This role can be based either within the main workshop or on active construction sites and is responsible for the assembly, commissioning, inspection, maintenance, and repair of specialist ground engineering equipment.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring plant reliability, operational performance, and the safe operation of heavy construction machinery across project operations.
- Main Responsibilities
- Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
- Conduct daily inspections of plant and equipment, identifying faults, defects, abnormal wear, leakages, unusual noises, or other anomalies requiring corrective action.
- Perform weekly mechanical inspections in accordance with plant maintenance schedules, checklists, and company procedures.
- Carry out planned preventative maintenance and servicing activities on specialist ground engineering equipment and associated plant.
- Dismantle, repair, replace, and reassemble defective mechanical components and equipment.
- Maintain accurate records and logs of inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, and equipment performance.
- Plant Assembly and Commissioning
- Participate in the mechanical assembly, commissioning, and mobilisation of cranes, drilling rigs, trench cutters, and other specialist construction plant.
- Support the installation and setup of specialist ground engineering equipment for site operations.
- Assist with the assembly, testing, maintenance, and dismantling of auxiliary equipment including pumps, desanding stations, batching plants, and associated systems.
- Ensure all mechanical works are completed safely and in accordance with company procedures and manufacturer requirements.
- Mechanical Servicing and Repairs
- Perform mechanical servicing activities on cranes, trench cutters, drill rigs, and other heavy construction equipment.
- Carry out preventative maintenance measures on smaller equipment such as pumps and ancillary plant.
- Diagnose mechanical faults and identify appropriate repair solutions to minimise downtime.
- Read and interpret technical manuals, maintenance documentation, and equipment drawings to support maintenance and repair activities.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant reliability, maintenance standards, and operational efficiency.
- Operational Support and Safety
- Support the safe operation and maintenance of specialist ground engineering equipment in both workshop and site environments.
- Adhere to all health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
- Work closely with supervisors and operational teams to ensure equipment remains available and fit for purpose.
- Maintain accurate maintenance records and provide regular updates to the Plant Supervisor.
- Undertake additional duties as reasonably required to support operational and project needs.
- Candidate Profile
Education & Experience
- Minimum 3 years' experience working in mechanical maintenance roles involving heavy construction plant or machinery.
- Experience working on construction equipment such as crawler cranes, lifting cranes, excavators, drilling rigs, desanding stations, batching plants, pumps, or similar heavy plant.
- Experience working with specialist foundation or ground engineering equipment such as BAUER and/or LIEBHERR machinery is desirable.
- Good knowledge of hydraulic systems, fault finding, and maintenance practices is desirable.
- Mechanical NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent).
- Valid CSCS Card.
- Strong understanding of mechanical inspection, servicing, maintenance, and repair activities.
- Experience working within construction, civil engineering, plant, or heavy equipment environments.
- Ability to read and understand technical documentation and equipment manuals.
- Personal Attributes
- Strong commitment to safety and compliance.
- Practical and hands‑on approach to problem solving.
- Able to diagnose faults efficiently and work methodically under pressure.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high maintenance standards.
- Reliable, adaptable, and willing to work in both workshop and site‑based environments.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Proactive attitude with a willingness to support wider operational activities.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and commitment to equipment reliability.
VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
A copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy is available upon request.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Plant Mechanic in Tilbury
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Bouygues Construction SA, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Plant Mechanic at Bouygues Construction SA.
We think you need these skills to ace Plant Mechanic in Tilbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bouygues Construction SA
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
