CAT3 Mechanical Supervisor in Newtonmore

Rubicon Consulting is currently recruiting for a CAT3 Mechanical Supervisor on a 6 month contract, based in Inverness. All potential candidates should read through the following details of this job with care before making an application.

Role Summary

Our Client is seeking an experienced Cat 3 Mechanical Supervisor to support a major Power T&D infrastructure project in the Inverness area. Operating under the relevant safety and competency framework, you will provide mechanical supervision and technical oversight across plant installation, commissioning, and maintenance activities on a high‑voltage substation or transmission network project. This is a site‑based, hands‑on supervisory role requiring a candidate with a proven track record in mechanical engineering within the power transmission or distribution sector. You will work within a structured authorisation regime and will be required to hold or obtain Cat 3 level competence as defined by the applicable client framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide Cat 3 mechanical supervision across substation or transmission infrastructure projects, ensuring all works are carried out safely and to specification.
• Plan, supervise, and coordinate mechanical installation activities including civil interfaces, plant erection, pipe work, cooling systems, and ancillary mechanical equipment.
• Issue and manage Permits to Work (PTW) and isolations in accordance with client safety rules and relevant electrical/mechanical safety documentation.
• Oversee and coordinate subcontractor mechanical teams, ensuring adherence to method statements, ITPs, and QA/QC requirements.
• Conduct toolbox talks, safety briefings, and site inductions; maintain site safety standards in line with CDM regulations and client HSE requirements.
• Liaise with the Site Manager, Project Engineer, and client representatives to ensure programme milestones are met.
• Carry out daily progress reporting, RFI management, and maintain accurate records of works completed, non-conformances, and defect closeout.
• Support mechanical commissioning activities including pre‑commissioning checks, HAT/SAT activities, and sign‑off documentation.
• Manage plant and equipment inspection requirements; ensure certification and calibration records are maintained.
• Ensure all works comply with relevant standards including BS EN, IEC, National Grid TS, and client‑specific engineering specifications.

Qualifications & Competency

• Recognised mechanical engineering qualification (ONC/HNC minimum, or equivalent trade apprenticeship and demonstrable experience).
• Cat 3 SSE Authorisation (Essential).
• SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) certificate – current.
• CSCS Card – Supervisory level or above.
• First Aid at Work certificate (desirable).

Experience

• Minimum 5 years' experience in mechanical supervision within HV substation, transmission, or distribution network projects.
• Proven experience working under a structured safety authorisation regime (e.g., National Grid, SSEN, SP Energy, or similar).
• Experience supervising mechanical installation of power transformers, reactors, GIS/AIS equipment, or associated plant.
• Demonstrable track record delivering mechanical works on high-value T&D infrastructure projects (£5m+).
• Experience with ITP and QA/QC documentation; ability to manage and close out non-conformance reports.

Technical Skills

• Sound understanding of mechanical systems associated with HV substation plant (transformer cooling, SF6 handling, oil containment, pipe work).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and mechanical specifications.
• Working knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations and duties applicable to site supervision.
• Competent in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) for reporting and documentation purposes.

Desirable

• Experience on SSEN or National Grid Transmission framework projects in Scotland.
• SF6 handling certificate.
• CCNSG (Safety Passport) – relevant to some client frameworks.
• Experience working on offshore-connected or renewable-tied substation infrastructure.
• Familiarity with Fieldglass or equivalent contractor management platforms.