Apprentice Mechanical Fitter in Widnes

Responsibilities

• Mechanical Maintenance & Fitting
  • Assist with planned preventative maintenance (PPM) on site mechanical plant and equipment.
  • Support reactive maintenance and breakdown repairs under supervision.
  • Assist with the dismantling, inspection, repair and reassembly of mechanical equipment.
  • Learn to maintain and repair pumps, motors, gearboxes, conveyors, valves, pipework, steam systems and other mechanical assets as applicable to site.
  • Assist with alignment, fitting, adjustment and replacement of mechanical components.
  • Support installation work for new mechanical equipment and plant upgrades.
  • Use hand tools, power tools and workshop equipment safely and correctly.
  • Learn how to identify worn or damaged components and report defects.
• Fault Finding & Inspection
  • Assist with diagnosing mechanical faults and identifying root causes of failures.
  • Support inspections of machinery to identify wear, leaks, vibration, overheating or other defects.
  • Assist with condition monitoring activities where applicable.
  • Learn to read and interpret mechanical drawings, technical manuals and maintenance instructions.
• Workshop & Site Support
  • Help maintain workshop tools, equipment and stores in a clean and serviceable condition.
  • Assist with the fabrication, modification and fitting of brackets, guards, pipework and other mechanical items where appropriate.
  • Support shutdowns, overhauls and project work as required.
  • Ensure good housekeeping standards in workshop and plant areas.
• Documentation & Communication
  • Complete job sheets, maintenance records and apprenticeship logbooks as required.
  • Report work completed, defects found and materials used to the supervisor or mentor.
  • Communicate effectively with colleagues, contractors and other departments.
• Apprenticeship & Training Responsibilities
  • Attend college/training provider sessions as required and complete all coursework, assignments and assessments on time.
  • Work towards achieving the relevant apprenticeship standard/qualification in Mechanical Engineering or Maintenance.
  • Take an active role in learning practical fitting, maintenance and fault‑finding skills.
  • Develop knowledge of engineering materials, bearings, seals, lubrication systems and mechanical assemblies.
  • Learn and follow company engineering standards, procedures and safe systems of work.
  • Build competence in using maintenance systems and documentation.
• Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibilities
  • Work in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and all company safety procedures.
  • Follow site rules, safe systems of work, risk assessments and method statements.
  • Comply with permit‑to‑work, lock off / isolation and confined space procedures where applicable.
  • Wear the correct PPE for the task being undertaken.
  • Report hazards, unsafe conditions, accidents, incidents and near misses promptly.
  • Maintain high housekeeping standards in all work areas.
  • Work in a manner that minimises waste and supports site environmental standards.

Person Specification

• Essential Qualifications – GCSEs (or equivalent) in: Maths – Grade 4/C or above; English – Grade 4/C or above; Science / Design Technology / Engineering‑related subject – Grade 4/C or above.
• Desirable Qualifications / Experience – Interest in mechanical engineering, maintenance or hands‑on practical work. A relevant engineering BTEC, NVQ, Level 2 qualification or engineering studies at school/college. Any previous workshop, maintenance, DIY, fabrication or engineering experience would be beneficial.
• Knowledge, Skills and Attributes
  • Essential – Genuine interest in mechanical engineering and maintenance. Practical aptitude and willingness to learn hands‑on skills. Good attention to detail and ability to follow instructions. Good communication and teamwork skills. Reliable, punctual and committed to completing the apprenticeship programme. Basic understanding of health and safety in the workplace. Ability to work safely and responsibly in an industrial environment.
  • Desirable – Basic understanding of mechanical systems such as pumps, motors, bearings, gearboxes or conveyors. Ability to read simple engineering drawings or technical diagrams. Basic IT skills for completing training and maintenance records.

Behavioural Requirements

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn
• A strong work ethic and commitment to development
• Good problem‑solving ability
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Respect for safety rules and procedures
• Pride in the quality of their work
• Ability to work well as part of a team

Training and Development

• A structured mechanical engineering apprenticeship programme
• On‑job training with experienced Mechanical Fitters and Engineers
• Formal college / training provider support
• Experience in mechanical maintenance, fault finding, fitting and overhaul activities
• Development in safe working practices, permit systems and engineering standards

Employment Selection

Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, nation of origin, religion, color, gender identity and expression, age, disability, education, opinions, culture, languages spoken, veteran’s status, or any other protected class.