Trainee Quarry Fitter

Overview

Position: Trainee Quarry Fitter

Location: McQuillan Quarries, Dundrod

Responsible to: Quarry Fitter

Contract type: Full-time, permanent

Salary: Competitive

Working hours: 39 hours per week, with overtime in mornings, evenings and weekends on a rota basis (weekends on a rota basis) as required for the role.

Why work for McQuillan Companies? McQuillan Companies, a family-run business in Northern Ireland, offers a diverse range of services including roadworks, civil engineering, demolition, quarrying, waste management, outdoor cleaning, and analytical chemistry. We value all perspectives and create a supportive space where people thrive. McQuillan Quarries are leading suppliers of bituminous products, high PSV aggregate and construction fill materials, with two asphalt coating plant locations outside Belfast and Dromore Co.

Down. Our materials testing labs at both depots ensure supply of quality products that meet British and European standards.

We offer a range of benefits including:

• Competitive salaries and overtime (where applicable)
• An excellent employee pension scheme
• 30 days of annual leave
• Dynamic group of professionals who maintain regulatory standards while fostering a supportive environment
• Excellent development, learning and training opportunities
• Participation in team building activities
• Employee Initiatives (Social & Fundraising activities)

We seek to appoint an Apprentice Quarry Fitter to join our busy and expanding team within McQuillan Quarries. This role offers a great opportunity for someone looking to learn and grow within a growing business that includes a range of benefits, in a dynamic and engaging working environment.

The successful candidate will report to the Plant Fitter and must be hardworking, reliable, and possess excellent communication & inter personal skills. In return you will be awarded a competitive salary, variety within your role, the ability to build upon your existing experience within the profession and the opportunity to work within a friendly and supportive team.

This position is offered as an apprenticeship, with full training and learning and development support provided, combining hands-on experience with structured learning. Previous experience is not essential; we are looking for someone eager to learn and will support you every step of the way as you develop the skills and confidence for the role.

• Assist qualified fitters with the maintenance, inspection and repair of quarry plant and equipment (e.g. coating plant, crushers, screens, conveyors, feeders)
• Carry out basic mechanical tasks under supervision, including lubrication, belt changes, bearing replacement and component fitting
• Help diagnose mechanical faults and report defects promptly
• Support planned preventative maintenance schedules to minimise downtime
• Work in full compliance with site rules, risk assessments and method statements
• Correctly use PPE, tools and safety equipment at all times
• Work effectively as part of the maintenance and quarry operations team

• Basic mechanical aptitude (interest in engines, hydraulics, pneumatics, and heavy machinery)
• Willingness to learn maintenance and repair of quarry plant
• Ability to use basic hand and power tools safely
• Basic understanding of health & safety in an industrial environment
• Strong commitment to safety and safe systems of work
• Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Reliable, punctual, and motivated to learn a trade
• Right to work in the UK
• Willingness to undertake formal training / apprenticeship

• Previous experience in a mechanical, engineering, or maintenance environment
• Previous experience in the quarrying or construction industry is advantageous, but not required

Note:

Due to the location of the Quarry a full driving licence and own transport is essential.

Closing date for applications: Friday 6th February 2026.

Important notice: This job description should not be regarded as conclusive or definite. It is a guideline within which the individual jobholder works and may alter as the Company’s strategic direction changes.