Mechanical Engineer / Operator-Fitter (Rail Track Grinding Machines)
22 days ago
Coventry
Mechanical Engineer / Operator-Fitter (Rail Grinding Machines) Location: UK Mobile (Nationwide Travel)\nPackage Overview \nStarting Salary (Level 1): £43,000 \nAnnual Bonus: 7.5% paid twice yearly (15% total) = £6,450 per year \nSalary rises after probation and rail safety competencies are passed. \nFollowing the rail grinding train around the UK as a service engineer/fitter \nWorking away from home for 3 weeks with 1 rest week every 3 weeks. \nShift pattern is 6 days on 1 day off for 3 weeks, then 7 days off. \nClear salary and bonus progression annually Job Overview:\n\nWe are recruiting for experienced Mechanical Engineers / Fitters to join a specialist rail grinding fleet operating nationwide.\n\nWorking within a close-knit team of approximately 12 engineers per train, you will maintain, fault-find and operate heavy rail-mounted grinding trains that restore rail profiles and ensure the safety and performance of the UK rail network.\n\nThis is a physically demanding, hands-on role involving mechanical overhauls, hydraulic systems maintenance and night working when trained in the future to operate the grinder train. The role requires extended travel, with 3 weeks per month working away from home.\nThis position would suit candidates from heavy plant, rail, mining, marine, military or other heavy industrial maintenance backgrounds.\n\nKey Responsibilities \nMaintain and operate rail grinding machines in line with operational plans and rail safety standards \nCarry out preventative and reactive maintenance on mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems \nStrip down, inspect and rebuild grinding heads, motors, gearboxes and drive assemblies \nChange and set grinding stones, monitoring grinding output and machine performance \nDiagnose and repair hydraulic faults (pumps, cylinders, hoses, valves) \nComplete daily inspections, underframe cleaning and component servicing \nFault-find mechanical and basic electrical control systems \nWork safely within rail possessions during night and weekend shifts \nAccurately complete maintenance documentation and defect reports Maintenance and Operation:\n \nMaintain, fault-find and repair rail grinding machines and on-track plant \nCarry out preventative and reactive maintenance on hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical systems \nInspect and maintain pumps, motors, gearboxes, hoses, cylinders and valves \nDiagnose hydraulic pressure faults and mechanical wear issues \nStrip down, rebuild and replace worn components \nUndertake daily safety inspections and underframe cleaning \nUse hand tools, torque equipment and diagnostic test gear \nComplete maintenance records and work in line with rail safety standards \nSafety & Compliance: \nEnsure compliance with health, safety, and environmental safeguards. \nComplete daily work return forms and maintain machine safety packs and operational records. \nServe as 2nd man/fire watch during grinding operations. \nCarry out Controller of Site Safety (COSS) duties if required. Person Specification:\n \nQualifications & Experience: \nMUST HAVE: NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering or a formal apprenticeship in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering. \nPrevious experience in heavy industrial maintenance, such as agriculture, aggregates, rolling stock, offshore, or plant fitting. \nHydraulics and pneumatics experience is highly desirable. \nMust hold a full driving licence, NO MORE THAN 3 POINTS \nMust pass a full rail medical and drug and alcohol screening test \nMust pass a criminal record background check (DBS) Work Schedule:\n \nShift Patterns: \n6 days on, 1 day off while away, when working a 4-night shift pattern, you will be given 2 days off. \nYou will be working 280 hours over 8 weeks. \nYou will be provided with a detailed monthly rota, but flexibility is essential. \nTravel: \nExtensive travel across the UK. \nFull Hotel lodging will be provided at Holiday Inn hotels or Premier Inns, with your own room and breakfast included. \n£45 per night paid when working away as your allowance, which is £7,500 per year and paid into your salary each month \nHoliday & Time Off: \n34 days annual leave (including bank holidays). \n1 rest week off every 3 weeks (13 weeks per year) \nAdditional Benefits: \nThe use of a company van and fuel card when needed. \nLife assurance and health care cash plan. \nPension scheme. \nEmployee Assistance Programme for well-being. \nEye care vouchers. \nLong service awards and seasonal ticket loan options. Training & Progression:\n \nFull training will be provided, including manual handling, machine setup, and pack-away for operation. \nProgression opportunities include advancing from Level 1 to Level 3, with the chance to increase salary significantly within two years. \nOpportunities for further progression include training to become a train driver, which requires a psychometric test. Work Environment:\n \nYou will work in a close-knit team of engineers, building long-lasting relationships. \nThe work involves being on board rail grinding machines, working in dirty and dusty conditions. \nYou will have access to "a comfort carriage" on the trains, providing facilities such as a small breakout area, kitchen, toilets, and a manager’s office. \nWe prioritise your safety, providing full protective gear, including air-supplied masks and safety boots. To apply for this role, please send your CV through the link, and we will call you back ASAP for a chat about your situation and also your availability to attend an interview. #ENG1