Apprentice Construction Plant Operator

OCU; Manchester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

OCU, a leading UK civil engineering contractor, is looking for a construction plant mechanic to join their team. This role involves repairing and maintaining machinery used on construction sites, supporting daily operations and ensuring safety standards are met. Candidates should be eager to learn in a supportive environment and contribute to team success.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in construction/utilities and plant machinery.
• Willingness to work outdoors and good physical fitness.
• Punctual, reliable, with a proactive attitude towards learning.

Responsibilities

• Repair and maintain utility and construction machinery.
• Diagnose problems using diagnostic tools.
• Work collaboratively to support daily site operations.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Verbal communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Education

Completion of structured apprenticeship programme

Job description

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Client:

OCU

Location:

Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

9ef0f5effbbb

Job Views:

8

Posted:

22.06.2025

Expiry Date:

06.08.2025

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Job Description:

Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer-focused civil engineering solutions.

Working directly with many of the country’s leading blue-chip power, water, telecoms and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team.

We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment.

We believe that being successful is a choice.

We choose to be successful.

We are OCU, ‘One Company United’.

Role Overview

A construction plant mechanic repairs and maintains machinery used on utility & construction sites. They work on equipment like excavators, dumper trucks, small powered tools, ensuring they are safe and functional. This involves diagnosing problems, performing repairs, and conducting service maintenance checks.

Duties and Responsibilities

Organising:

• Repair and Maintenance: Fixing breakdowns and carrying out routine maintenance on plant machinery.

• Diagnosis and Inspection: Identifying faults using diagnostic tools and inspecting various parts like engines, gearboxes, and hydraulics.

• Specialized Tasks: Dismantling and reassembling parts, using hand and power tools, and employing specialist equipment.

• Safety Checks: Performing safety checks before signing off on completed jobs.

• Variety of Equipment: Working with a wide range of equipment, including excavators, dumper trucks, trailers and smaller items like air compressors and generators.

• Proficient in IT.

Planning and Implementing:

• Work collaboratively with team members to support daily site operations.

• Practice safe working techniques and promote a safety-first mindset.

• Identify and report potential machinery faults or maintenance needs.

• Support the completion of site documentation and training logs as part of apprenticeship requirements.

• Engage in both classroom-based theory and hands-on practical learning sessions.

Audit and Review:

• Attend regular progress reviews and assessments with apprenticeship providers and site supervisors.

• Contribute to toolbox talks, briefings, and team safety discussions.

• Keep training records up to date and ensure consistent development in line with apprenticeship milestones.

• Participate in reflective learning activities to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Decision Making Authority:

• Expected to raise safety concerns or equipment issues to a supervisor immediately.

• Encouraged to contribute ideas and solutions in team discussions when appropriate.

• No operational decision-making authority during the apprenticeship phase but will be supported to develop this over time.

Skills and Experience

Business Knowledge:

• Interest in construction/utilities, plant machinery, and practical outdoor work.

• Basic understanding of safety practices and the importance of teamwork on site.

Essential Functional / Technical Skills:

• Commitment to completing a structured apprenticeship programme.

• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and an eye for detail when inspecting equipment.

• Effective verbal communication and the ability to follow instructions.

• Physically fit and able to carry out manual tasks as required.

• Positive attitude, eager to learn and grow within the construction/utilities industry.

• Punctual, reliable, and safety-conscious.

• Team player with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Respectful, professional behaviour in line with company values and site expectations.

What We Value

We value our commitment to each other, summed up in our five values, we all sign up to these… We care about safety. We lead with integrity. We strive to be better every day. We make a positive impact. We deliver to grow. We are one company united.

Our Aim & Vision at OCU

To be the UK's leading energy transition and utilities contractor.

We are committed to leading the way in utilities and energy transition contracting, our mission is to innovate and deliver sustainability. At OCU, our passion for addressing complex challenges brings new standards of growth in our people and capabilities.