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.
Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!
