Mechanical Fitter (Heavy Plant / Industrial Maintenance)

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Fitter to join a high-volume industrial recycling facility in Leeds.

This role is suited to a technically strong, hands-on engineer with a background in heavy plant, materials handling, or processing environments, capable of maintaining and improving mechanical reliability across site operations.

The Role

Reporting into site leadership, you will be responsible for the maintenance, fault diagnosis, and continuous improvement of mechanical systems across both static and mobile plant. A key part of this role will involve developing and executing a robust Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) strategy, minimising downtime, and supporting operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Execute and develop Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) schedules across all mechanical assets
Perform advanced fault finding, root cause analysis (RCA), and implement permanent corrective actions
Maintain and repair conveyors, shredders, hydraulic systems, and associated heavy plant equipment
Strip, inspect, and rebuild mechanical components including bearings, gearboxes, shafts, and drive systems
Carry out on-site fabrication and welding (MIG/ARC) for repair and modification work
Oversee and coordinate third-party contractors, ensuring compliance with site safety and engineering standards
Support plant upgrades, installations, and commissioning activities
Maintain detailed maintenance records and utilise CMMS or similar systems where applicable
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant reliability, uptime, and cost reduction
Ensure full compliance with HSE legislation, permit systems, and safe systems of work

Candidate Profile:

NVQ Level 3 / City & Guilds in Mechanical Engineering or a time-served apprenticeship
Demonstrable experience in heavy industrial, recycling, quarrying, or manufacturing environments
Strong working knowledge of mechanical systems including conveyors, shredders, hydraulics, and material handling equipment
Proven ability in fault diagnosis, breakdown response, and preventative maintenance planning
Competence in welding and fabrication (MIG + TIG)
Experience managing contractors and working within permit-to-work systems
Familiarity with CMMS and maintenance planning tools
Strong understanding of HSE regulations within an industrial setting

Benefits

From £43,000 basic salary
Pension scheme with life assurance
Annual bonus and comprehensive benefits package
Health cash plan and wellbeing initiatives
34.5 days annual leave including bank holidays
Ongoing technical training and career progression
Secure on-site parking

This is a technically demanding role within a fast-paced processing environment, offering the opportunity to take ownership of plant reliability and contribute to continuous improvement across the site.

Major Recruitment Huddersfield (phone number removed)

INDAC
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed