Mechanical Fitter - Nuclear

ASTUTE Technical Recruitment Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist recruitment firm is seeking a Mechanical Fitter in the UK. You will install, align, and maintain overhead cranes in a crucial nuclear infrastructure project. Ideal candidates should have hands-on experience with heavy mechanical assemblies and relevant engineering qualifications. Competitive salary and accommodations are provided, alongside 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays.

Benefits

Generous accommodation and travel allowances

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Opportunity to work on prestigious nuclear projects

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in precision fitting, alignment, and maintenance of heavy mechanical assemblies.
• Demonstrable experience with overhead or gantry cranes, hoists, or similar heavy plant.
• Ability to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Install, align, and assemble mechanical crane components.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance including rope changes and brake adjustments.
• Carry out precision measurements and alignment.

Skills

Mechanical problem-solving

Excellent teamwork

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Level 3 Apprenticeship in Engineering/Mechanical Fitting

Minimum Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or Mechanical Fitting

Tools

DIs

Micrometers

Laser tools

Job description

Overview

Astute’s Nuclear team is exclusively partnered with a specialist lifting and handling equipment business, acting as the lifting principal contractor on Hinkley Point C. We are currently recruiting a Mechanical Fitter to install, align, and maintain overhead travelling cranes and lifting equipment.

You will work in a highly regulated and safety-critical environment, ensuring all lifting systems meet design specifications and stringent safety standards. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in precision fitting, alignment, and maintenance of heavy mechanical assemblies, preferably in industrial or nuclear settings.

The role comes with a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and the opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most prestigious nuclear infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities and duties

Reporting to the Black Hat Supervisor, you will:

• Install, align, and assemble mechanical crane components including bridges, end carriages, wheelsets, and hoists to engineering drawings and tolerances.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance, including rope changes, brake adjustments, and gearbox inspections.
• Carry out precision measurements and alignment using DIs, micrometers, and laser tools.
• Support commissioning activities alongside electrical and OEM teams.
• Ensure all work complies with LOLER, PUWER, and site-specific RAMS.
• Complete QA documentation, redline drawings, and maintenance logs accurately.

Professional qualifications

We are looking for someone with the following:

• One of the following: Level 3 Apprenticeship in Engineering/Mechanical Fitting or Engineering, Mechanical, Aircraft, Plant, Machinery, Marine, Vehicle Maintenance or Mechanical Manufacturing (Fitting and Assembly) or Installing and Commissioning Machinery and Equipment.
• Minimum Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or Mechanical Fitting or Engineering, Mechanical, Aircraft, Plant, Machinery, Marine, Vehicle Maintenance or Mechanical Manufacturing (Fitting and Assembly) or Installing and Commissioning Machinery and Equipment.
• (Minimum Level 6 in the above if apprenticeship/qualification awarded in Scotland)
• ACE Card in Mechanical Fitting or Maintenance
• Demonstrable experience with overhead or gantry cranes, hoists, or similar heavy plant.
• Working at Height and CCNSG Safety Passport.
• Familiarity with LOLER and PUWER regulations.

Personal skills

The Mechanical Fitter role would suit someone who has:

• Strong mechanical problem-solving and fault-finding ability.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• A safety-first mindset and attention to detail.
• Ability to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Salary and benefits

Salary and benefits of the Mechanical Fitter role

• Competitive salary based on ECSA rates, dependent on experience.
• Generous accommodation and travel allowances.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Opportunity to work on prestigious nuclear projects with a leading contractor.

Astute People are acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and comply with all relevant UK legislation. We encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Astute is also committed to the government's Disability Confident Employer initiative. We endeavour to get back to everyone, however, if you have not heard anything after 7 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.