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).
The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) is a major new road infrastructure scheme linking the A2/M2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Essex via a 2.6 mile twin bore tunnel beneath the River Thames—the longest road tunnel in the UK. The 14.5 mile route incorporates new approach roads, upgrades to existing highways, and significant structures including bridges and viaducts.
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, commissioning, inspection, maintenance, and repair of specialist ground engineering equipment. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring plant reliability, operational performance, and the safe operation of heavy construction machinery across project operations.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
- Conduct daily inspections of plant and equipment, identifying faults, defects, abnormal wear, leakages, unusual noises, or other anomalies requiring corrective action.
- Perform weekly mechanical inspections in accordance with plant maintenance schedules, checklists, and company procedures.
- Carry out planned preventative maintenance and servicing activities on specialist ground engineering equipment and associated plant.
- 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, and mobilisation of cranes, drilling rigs, trench cutters, and other specialist construction plant.
- Support the installation and setup of specialist ground engineering equipment for site operations.
- Assist with the assembly, testing, maintenance, and dismantling of auxiliary equipment including pumps, desanding stations, 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 activities on cranes, trench cutters, drill rigs, and other heavy construction equipment.
- Carry out preventative maintenance measures on smaller equipment such as pumps and ancillary plant.
- Diagnose mechanical faults and identify appropriate repair solutions to minimise downtime.
- Read and interpret technical manuals, maintenance documentation, and equipment drawings to support maintenance and repair activities.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant reliability, maintenance standards, and operational efficiency.
Operational Support and Safety
- Support the safe operation and maintenance of specialist ground engineering equipment 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.
Education & Experience
- Minimum 3 years' experience working in mechanical maintenance roles involving heavy construction plant or machinery.
- Experience working on construction equipment such as crawler cranes, lifting cranes, excavators, drilling rigs, desanding stations, batching plants, pumps, or similar heavy plant.
- Experience working with specialist foundation or ground engineering equipment such as BAUER and/or LIEBHERR machinery is desirable.
- Good knowledge of hydraulic systems, fault finding, and maintenance practices is desirable.
- Mechanical NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent).
- Valid CSCS Card.
- Strong understanding of mechanical inspection, servicing, maintenance, and repair activities.
- Experience working within construction, civil engineering, plant, or heavy equipment environments.
- Ability to read and understand technical documentation and equipment manuals.
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!
