Mechanic​/Plant Technician

To inspect, service, repair, and maintain a wide range of company equipment and vehicles, ensuring all fleet vehicles, construction plant machinery, hydraulic systems, pressure washers, and handheld petrol-powered tools remain safe, compliant, and operational at all times.

• Carry out routine servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on:
  • Fleet vehicles (vans, pickups and trailers)
  • Construction plant machinery
  • Handheld petrol-powered equipment
  • Pressure washers and jetting equipment
  • Hydraulic systems and components
• Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, fuel, ignition, electrical, and engine faults efficiently.
• Perform preventative maintenance inspections and safety checks to minimise downtime and breakdowns.
• Repair and replace worn or damaged parts including pumps, hoses, belts, bearings, filters, seals, and hydraulic fittings.
• Maintain hydraulic systems including fault finding, hose replacement, leak detection, and pressure testing.
• Service and repair small petrol engines used in handheld equipment such as:
  • Cut‑off saws
  • Strimmers
  • Hedge cutters
  • Blowers
  • Generators
• Inspect, test, and maintain pressure washers and associated equipment to ensure safe operation.
• Complete vehicle and machinery inspections in accordance with company procedures and legal requirements.
• Ensure all maintenance records, service reports, inspection sheets, and repair documentation are completed accurately.
• Maintain workshop cleanliness, organisation, and safe working practices.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations and company policies.
• Assist with breakdown response and emergency repairs both on‑site and in the workshop when required.
• Monitor stock levels of workshop consumables and spare parts and report shortages.

• Proven experience as a mechanic, plant fitter, or fleet maintenance technician.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Diesel and petrol engines
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Construction plant equipment
  • Fleet vehicle maintenance
  • Small engine diagnostics and repairs
• Ability to diagnose faults using both manual and diagnostic methods.
• Experience working with pressure washer systems and hydraulic equipment preferred.
• Good understanding of workshop health & safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively.
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Relevant mechanical qualification (NVQ, City & Guilds, or equivalent) preferred.
• Full UK driving licence required.
• LOLER / PUWER awareness beneficial.

• This is a permanent full time position 5 days per week.
• Normal hours will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 4:30pm.

Full uniform will be provided. Uniform must be worn at all times with a name badge.

For the first five months of employment, the jobholder will be asked to complete a one month, three month and five month self‑assessment. This will gauge their feelings of the job and assess their progress towards meeting targets.

• Workshop and field‑based work.
• Manual handling and lifting of heavy components involved.
• Use of PPE required at all times where applicable.
• CZS is a non‑smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
• CZS is an equal opportunities employer.
• FREE Zoo visits*
• FREE onsite parking
• Staff events
• Discounts on Animal Adoptions, Annual Memberships and Animal Experiences*
• Discounts in the Outpost Gift Shop*
• Discounts in food outlets
• 28 days annual leave (incl. Bank Holidays)
• Competitive hourly rate
• Uniform provided
• Regular training
• Weekly staff newsletter