Nuclear Mechanical Fitter

Astute People; Bridgwater; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contractor in nuclear projects seeks a Mechanical Fitter to install and maintain overhead cranes and lifting equipment in a safety-critical environment. Candidates should possess a Level 3 Apprenticeship or equivalent in Engineering and experience with heavy mechanical assemblies. The position offers a competitive salary, accommodation and travel allowances, along with holidays, while contributing to prestigious nuclear infrastructure projects.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Generous accommodation and travel allowances

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Opportunity to work on prestigious projects

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with overhead or gantry cranes, hoists, or similar heavy plant.
• Able to obtain BPSS security clearance.
• Familiarity with LOLER and PUWER regulations.

Responsibilities

• Install, align, and assemble mechanical crane components.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance.
• Carry out precision measurements and alignment.
• Support commissioning activities alongside teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Complete QA documentation accurately.

Skills

Precision fitting

Mechanical problem-solving

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Level 3 Apprenticeship in Engineering/Mechanical Fitting

Minimum Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or Mechanical Fitting

ACE Card in Mechanical Fitting or Maintenance

Job description

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

• 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

• 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 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.

INDNUCAstute 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.