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.

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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