Plant Mechanic - Sizewell (2 Year FTC)

Plant Mechanic - Sizewell (2 Year FTC)

Temporary 28350 - 34650 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
VSL International Ltd.

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Inspect, maintain, and repair heavy construction machinery on-site or in the workshop.
  • Company: Join VSL International, a leader in innovative civil engineering projects.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic work environment with a strong focus on safety and teamwork.
  • Why this job: Be part of the UK's clean energy revolution with a once-in-a-generation project.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years in mechanical maintenance of heavy plant; NVQ Level 2 preferred.

The predicted salary is between 28350 - 34650 £ per year.

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

Sizewell C (SZC) is at the heart of the UK’s clean energy revolution.

This ground-breaking nuclear power plant project in Suffolk will play a vital role in delivering a sustainable future.

Backed by EDF and the UK Government, Sizewell C is a once-in-a-generation project with significant opportunities to innovate, grow, and deliver excellence.

We are responsible for a range of specialist civil and construction works as part of the Geotechnical Subcontract Alliance (GSA), supporting the delivery of major infrastructure and civil engineering works for the project.

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, inspection, maintenance, servicing, and repair of heavy construction plant and machinery.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring the reliability, availability, and safe operation of heavy plant used across civil engineering and construction activities.

Previous geotechnical or ground engineering experience is not required.

Experience working with heavy plant and machinery within civil engineering or construction environments is the primary requirement.

  • Main Responsibilities
  • Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
  • Conduct daily inspections of heavy plant and equipment, identifying faults, defects, abnormal wear, leakages, unusual noises, or other issues requiring corrective action.
  • Perform mechanical inspections in accordance with plant maintenance schedules, checklists, and company procedures.
  • Carry out planned preventative maintenance and servicing activities on heavy construction plant and associated equipment.
  • 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, mobilisation, and dismantling of cranes, excavators, drilling rigs, and other heavy construction plant.
  • Support the installation and setup of construction equipment for site operations.
  • Assist with the assembly, testing, maintenance, and dismantling of auxiliary equipment including pumps, 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 and repairs on cranes, excavators, drilling rigs, pumps, and other heavy construction equipment.
  • Carry out preventative maintenance on smaller plant, tools, pumps, and ancillary equipment.
  • Diagnose mechanical faults and identify appropriate repair solutions to minimise equipment downtime.
  • Carry out repairs and component replacements using appropriate tools and equipment.
  • Read and interpret technical manuals, maintenance documentation, equipment drawings, and manufacturers' instructions.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant reliability, maintenance standards, and operational efficiency.
  • Operational Support and Safety
  • Support the safe operation and maintenance of heavy construction plant 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 maintaining and repairing heavy plant used within civil engineering or construction environments.
  • Experience working with equipment such as excavators, crawler cranes, lifting cranes, drilling rigs, pumps, batching plants, or similar heavy construction machinery.
  • Experience with specialist foundation or ground engineering equipment such as BAUER and/or LIEBHERR machinery would be advantageous but is not essential.
  • Good knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, fault finding, and maintenance practices.
  • Mechanical NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification.
  • Valid CSCS Card.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical inspection, servicing, maintenance, and repair activities.
  • Experience working within civil engineering, construction plant, or heavy equipment environments.
  • Ability to read and understand technical documentation, equipment manuals, and mechanical drawings.
  • 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.

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Plant Mechanic - Sizewell (2 Year FTC) employer: VSL International Ltd.

VSL International Ltd. is an exceptional employer located in Ipswich, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the Design & Engineering team. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth while contributing to significant projects like Sizewell C, ensuring their work has a meaningful impact on the future of geotechnical engineering. With a commitment to high-quality standards and a supportive environment, VSL is dedicated to nurturing talent and rewarding hard work.

VSL International Ltd.

Contact Details:

VSL International Ltd. Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Plant Mechanic - Sizewell (2 Year FTC)

Get Your Hands Dirty at Local Events

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We think you need these skills to ace Plant Mechanic - Sizewell (2 Year FTC)

Mechanical Maintenance
Heavy Construction Plant Experience
Equipment Inspection
Preventative Maintenance
Fault Diagnosis
Repair and Servicing of Heavy Machinery
Technical Documentation Interpretation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Skills:In the skilled trades, it’s all about showcasing your hands-on abilities. Make sure your CV highlights specific trade skills you’ve mastered, along with any relevant certifications or training programmes you've completed. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!

Keep It Concise and Relevant:Since this is a temporary role, we want you to focus on your most relevant experience. Tailor your CV to emphasise the projects or roles that align with the specific skills needed for the position at VSL International Ltd.. Less fluff, more actionable details!

Mention Your Availability:In your cover letter, let us know your availability and willingness to start right away. Since this is a temporary position, we want to hear how you can jump in and make an impact quickly. Be clear about when you can start and how flexible you can be.

Share Your Work Portfolio:If you've got a portfolio or evidence of past projects, include it! We love to see the tangible results of your skilled work. Whether it's photos or detailed descriptions of your previous jobs, sharing this with us can really set you apart from the competition.

How to prepare for a job interview at VSL International Ltd.

Show Off Your Skills

Since you’re diving into a temporary position in skilled trades, make sure to highlight your relevant hands-on experience. Bring along a portfolio of your past projects or photos showing your skillset in action. This isn’t just about what you say; it’s about showing what you can do as well!

Prepare for Practical Assessments

Get ready for some on-the-job assessment during the interview. Be prepared to demonstrate your technical skills, whether it’s through a practical test or skills assessment. Brush up on common tools and techniques specific to your trade, so you can showcase your competence confidently.

Flexibility is Key

Since this is a temporary role, companies often look for candidates who can hit the ground running. Be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different projects or working conditions. Emphasize your eagerness to learn quickly and make a positive impact right away.

Communicate Your Team Spirit

In skilled trades, being part of a team is often crucial. Make sure to talk about your past experiences working collaboratively with colleagues. Whether it's sharing a tool or problem-solving on site, show that you understand the importance of teamwork in getting the job done efficiently at VSL International Ltd..