Plant/Mechanical Fitter

RSK Group; Bristol; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible benefits programme

Access to mental health support

Discounted gym memberships

Full training and development

Job summary

RSK Group in Avonmouth, Bristol is seeking a Drilling Rig Mechanic/Fitter responsible for the maintenance, repair, and safe operation of geotechnical drilling rigs. The ideal candidate will perform routine servicing and inspections while ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Candidates should have proven experience with drilling rigs, strong diagnostic abilities, and competence in welding. Attractive salary and flexible benefits including health care are offered.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a mechanic/technician working with drilling rigs or hydraulic equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Competence in welding, fabrication, and component rebuilds.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine servicing, inspections, and preventative maintenance on drilling rigs.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical faults.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and compliance documentation.

Skills

Mechanic/technician experience with drilling rigs

Strong diagnostic ability

Reading technical drawings

Welding and fabrication

Workshop safety understanding

Tools

Drilling rigs

Hydraulic equipment

Job description

Drilling Rig Mechanic/Fitter – Location

Avonmouth, Bristol, UK.

Role

The Drilling Rig Mechanic/Fitter is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and safe operation of customer geotechnical drilling rigs and associated plant. This role ensures equipment reliability, supports field crews, and upholds Safer Rig Services’ commitment to safe, compliant, and efficient drilling operations.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform routine servicing, inspections, and preventative maintenance on geotechnical drilling rigs, compressors, hydraulic systems, and support equipment.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical faults both in the workshop and on active job sites.
• Respond to breakdowns promptly to minimise operational downtime.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and compliance documentation.
• Ensure all work complies with LOLER, PUWER, manufacturer guidelines, and internal safety procedures.
• Support drilling crews with technical troubleshooting and safe equipment operation.
• Conduct component rebuilds, welding, and fabrication where required.
• Manage parts ordering, stock control, and inventory for critical spares.
• Assist in rig upgrades, modifications, and performance improvements.
• Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a mechanic/technician working with drilling rigs, heavy plant, or hydraulic equipment.
• Strong diagnostic ability across mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and service manuals.
• Experience with rotary, window sampling, CPT, or geotechnical rigs (preferred).
• Competence in welding, fabrication, and component rebuilds.
• Full UK driving licence (HGV advantageous).
• CSCS card or willingness to obtain.
• Strong understanding of workshop safety, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.

Personal Attributes

• Practical, hands‑on problem solver with strong attention to detail.
• Calm and methodical when working under pressure or responding to breakdowns.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to work independently or as part of a field team.
• Clear communicator who can explain technical issues to non‑technical colleagues.
• Takes pride in maintaining equipment to a high standard.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience.
• Flexible benefits programme including the option to buy additional holidays and private health care.
• Access to mental health support.
• Discounted gym memberships.
• Full training and development provided.

The RSK Group are an equal opportunities employer.