Gemma Harfield

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 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.

INDNUC