Construction plant mechanic jobs

Plant mechanics are responsible for the repair and maintenance of heavy construction machines to ensure the timely and risk-free completion of projects. As a plant mechanic, you would be responsible for doing routine checks on a variety of machines, including cranes, excavators, and dumpers. You would need to have an in-depth knowledge of how each equipment operates, as well as the ability to make repairs to them on the spot or swiftly get new components.

How to work in the maintenance department of a plant

You may get the necessary credentials by enrolling in a college program or by serving an apprenticeship. If you want to work as a plant mechanic, you will need to have a valid driver's license in addition to the other requirements.

To be able to work on a construction site, you may be required to have a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or a Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) card. Learn the details here.

College or other educational provider

To get the appropriate credentials, you may be required to enroll in a specialized institution or find another training source.

It is possible for you to get a Level 2 Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance, a Level 2 Diploma in Construction Plant or Machinery Maintenance, or a Level 3 Diploma in Plant Maintenance if you decide to enroll in the appropriate educational programs.

You'll need:

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent (level 2 course)

4 - 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent (level 3 course)

A valid driver's license in its entirety.

Apprenticeship

The best approach to get into the construction sector is to find an apprenticeship with a construction or plant rental company.

Apprenticeships are available to anybody over the age of 16 who meets the requirements. To work as a certified plant mechanic, you will need to possess a valid driver's license. Additionally, your company may stipulate that you must be at least 18 or 25 years old in order to work for them due to insurance requirements. You will be considered a full-time employee of the firm you apprentice for, and you will be required to put in a minimum of thirty hours of labor each week. Your time will be divided between getting experience on the job and attending school or working with a training provider.

It is possible for you to finish an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in the field of civil engineering: plant maintenance.

You'll need:

1 to 4 GCSEs, including English and arithmetic, or an equivalent qualification is required (intermediate apprenticeship)

a minimum of five GCSEs, including English and mathematics, with grades ranging from 9 to 4 (A* to C), or an equivalent qualification (advanced apprenticeship).

Practice in the workplace

To be successful in finding a job in the construction sector, you need to have previous work experience. When potential employers see it stated on your CV, they will almost always be delighted. You could have previous expertise operating industrial machines or be familiar with the mechanics of motor vehicles.

Skills

The following are some additional skills that would be beneficial to someone contemplating a career as a plant mechanic:

Capable in operating, repairing, and maintaining many types of machinery and equipment

A familiarity with the fields of mathematics, engineering science, and technology.

Design skills and knowledge

Capable of doing effectively while working with one's hands

Always be sure to be diligent and careful with the details.

Capable of taking constructive criticism while maintaining high standards of performance

Capable of getting along nicely with other people

Confident in one's ability to utilize a computer and the most important software packages

What exactly is it that a plant mechanic does?

As a plant mechanic, you will be responsible for examining machinery and ensuring that it is safe for use by repairing or maintaining it. This responsibility will often need the use of specialized tools and equipment.

The following responsibilities are included in the job description for the function of plant mechanic:

Using specialized computer technology, in many cases, to check on the condition of the machines.

Conducting regular checks of the vehicle's engines, gearboxes, hydraulics, and electrical systems, as well as its tires and chassis

The defective parts will be disassembled and either repaired or replaced.

Reassembling and testing of components to guarantee that they continue to function in a secure manner

Examining brand-new machinery before putting it to service at the construction site

Utilizing reports in order to identify and locate problems

Keeping detailed records of maintenance performed on equipment

Defending one's actions in front of coworkers and superiors

using an extensive collection of specialized hand and power tools, such as sockets, spanners, screwdrivers, drills, lifting gear, as well as welding and cutting equipment

Working on construction sites or in workshops, doing tasks that are physically taxing, loud, and dirty.

How much money might you make working as a mechanic at a plant?

The amount of money you may anticipate making as a plant mechanic depends on your level of expertise.

Earning potential for newly qualified plant mechanics is from £20,000 to £30,000 per year.

Plant mechanics who have some experience and training may make between £30,000 and £40,000 a year.

It's possible for senior plant mechanics to make more than £40,000 a year.

Plant mechanics who work by themselves are free to choose their own compensation rates.

Location, employer, and the availability of overtime work all have an impact on salaries.