At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to maintain and improve mechanical systems in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: DS Smith, a leading company in the manufacturing industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth and development in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring high safety standards and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: GCSE education, mechanical engineering experience, and a collaborative mindset.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 52000 £ per year.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
Kemsley Paper Mill (Sittingbourne)
£58,000
About the Role
We are looking for a skilled and proactive Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to join the Engineering team at our Kemsley Paper Mill. This is an exciting opportunity to work within one of the largest and most advanced paper mills in the UK, supporting the reliability and performance of high-speed manufacturing and processing equipment.
Working on a continental 4 on / 4 off shift rota, you will play a key role in ensuring plant availability, minimising downtime, and delivering safe, efficient maintenance across the site.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out planned preventative maintenance (PPM) activities across site machinery and equipment
- Respond quickly and effectively to mechanical breakdowns
- Diagnose faults and implement long-term engineering solutions
- Support continuous improvement and reliability initiatives
- Work collaboratively with production and engineering teams to maximise plant performance
- Ensure all work is completed safely and in line with company procedures and standards
- Accurately complete maintenance documentation and shift reports
- Contribute to shutdowns, overhauls, and project work where required
What We’re Looking For
- Time-served Mechanical Engineer or recognised Engineering Apprenticeship
- NVQ Level 3 / City & Guilds in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
- Experience within a heavy manufacturing, industrial, FMCG, paper, steel, recycling, or process environment
- Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills
- Experience working with: Bearings, pumps, conveyors, gearboxes, hydraulics, pneumatics, and rotating equipment
- Ability to work independently and as part of a shift engineering team
- A strong commitment to health & safety standards
What we can offer you:
- Competitive salary
- Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
- Pension scheme & Life insurance
- Share Save scheme
- Income Protection
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Virtual GP, Occupational Health & free Flu vaccine
- Cycle to Work and shopping discounts
We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world-leading organisation and do your best work with us!
Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.”
#LI-SP
#DSENG
Mechanical Craft Engineer employer: DS Smith
DS Smith is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and employee well-being in the vibrant location of Livingston, Scotland. With opportunities for personal growth and development, alongside competitive benefits such as 25 days holiday and a pension scheme, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to meaningful production processes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Craft Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at DS Smith on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your mechanical engineering knowledge. We should be ready to discuss specific projects we've worked on and how we tackled challenges in the manufacturing industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our problem-solving skills! During interviews, share examples of how we've improved processes or dealt with unexpected issues. This will highlight our ability to contribute to the team at DS Smith.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we're genuinely interested in joining the team at Kemsley Paper Mill.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Craft Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Craft Engineer role. Highlight your mechanical engineering experience and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your experience aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your flexible approach to problem-solving and teamwork!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements in your previous roles. Whether it's improving maintenance processes or successfully handling unexpected issues, we love to see how you've made a difference in your past positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our high-performing team at Kemsley!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical engineering knowledge, especially around maintenance and project activities. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that showcase your problem-solving skills and how you've dealt with unexpected issues in the past.
✨Safety First
Since safety standards are crucial in this role, be prepared to talk about how you prioritise safety in your work. Think of instances where you’ve implemented safety measures or improved processes to ensure a safe working environment.
✨Team Player Vibes
This position requires collaboration, so highlight your ability to work well within a team. Share examples of how you’ve contributed to team success or helped colleagues overcome challenges, showing that you’re all about constructive involvement.
✨Continuous Improvement Mindset
Show that you’re driven and self-motivated by discussing how you’ve identified areas for improvement in previous roles. Talk about any initiatives you’ve taken to enhance performance and effectiveness, demonstrating your commitment to delivering a world-class service.
