Heavy Vehicle Maintenance Engineer - Defence

RecruitMe; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence engineering contractor is seeking a Maintenance Engineer to support various MOD client sites and maintain a fleet of modern plant and materials-handling equipment. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems, with a Level 3 qualification or equivalent experience. This role offers a competitive salary plus additional benefits, along with opportunities for professional development and progression within a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Fully funded training and development opportunities

Strong benefits package including pension

Flexible benefits options

Qualifications

• Level 3 qualification in relevant maintenance field or equivalent experience.
• Strong mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical system knowledge.
• Experience in diagnosing and repairing technical faults.

Responsibilities

• Perform planned maintenance and fault-finding on equipment.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues.
• Maintain accurate service records and job documentation.

Skills

Mechanical systems knowledge

Hydraulic systems knowledge

Electrical systems knowledge

Attention to detail

Independence in tasks

Education

Level 3 qualification in Plant, Mechanical, Automotive or Electrical Maintenance

Job description

Location: various MoD client sites or at main depot

Salary: £36,691 + £3,000 Sponsored Reserve Payment (where applicable)

Hours: 40 per week, Monday to Friday (occasional weekend work)

About the Role

This is a hands‑on engineering role maintaining a fleet of modern plant and materials‑handling equipment used to support UK Defence operations.

Working for this Defence business, you will carry out inspections, servicing, diagnostics and repairs on a range of assets including forklifts, telehandlers, excavators, generators, lighting towers and mechanical plant used across military environments.

This position sits within a long‑term MOD contract, offering outstanding job security, structured training and genuine progression opportunities.

What You Will Be Doing

Performing planned maintenance, fault‑finding, servicing and repairs on plant and MHE equipment.

Diagnosing mechanical, hydraulic and electrical issues and completing high‑quality repairs.

Carrying out pre‑delivery inspections and ensuring equipment meets safety and compliance standards.

Maintaining accurate service records, job documentation and parts requests.

Liaising with controllers and site contacts to update on progress, repair scope and timescales.

Working safely in line with MOD and site regulations, promoting a strong safety culture.

Delivering a professional, reliable service to ensure equipment availability and operational readiness.

About You

• Level 3 qualification (or equivalent experience) in Plant, Mechanical, Automotive or Electrical Maintenance.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems.
• Experience diagnosing and repairing technical faults.
• Ability to work independently, manage workload and prioritise tasks.
• High level of attention to detail, safety awareness and technical competence.
• Ex‑military engineering backgrounds (REME, RAF, Royal Engineers, RLC) are highly valued but not essential.
• Willingness to undertake Sponsored Reserve training where required.

What Youll Get

• Stable, long‑term role supporting critical Defence operations.
• Competitive salary plus Sponsored Reserve allowance.
• Fully funded training and development opportunities.
• Supportive, inclusive team environment with real progression pathways.
• Strong benefits package including pension and flexible benefits options.

Why This Role Is Better Than a Typical Maintenance Engineer Position

You work on a diverse range of equipment rather than being tied to one machine or environment.

You gain MOD experience, enhancing long‑term career value and security.

You join a highly respected engineering contractor operating on major Defence programmes.

You receive unique training opportunities not available in civilian‑only roles.

Your work directly contributes to operational capability, giving real purpose and job satisfaction.

How to Apply

If you are a skilled Maintenance Engineer, Plant Technician, HGV Mechanic, REME Engineer or similar, and you want a role with stability, variety and progression, apply today with your CV.