Responsibilities
* Designing and implementing equipment modifications to help improve safety and reliability
* Investigating and testing ideas to improve existing systems or to overcome machinery problems
* Making parts and installing and testing machinery
* Carrying out maintenance and identifying and repairing faults in equipment
* Solving complex problems with manufacturing departments, sub-contractors, suppliers and customers
* Managing projects
* Planning and designing new production processes
* Working with other professionals, within and outside the engineering sector
* Monitoring and commissioning plant and systems
How to Become a Plant and Mechanical Engineer
There are several routes to becoming a plant and mechanical engineer. You could do a university degree, a college course, an apprenticeship or through on‑job training. Many employers are more interested in enthusiasm, willingness to learn and the ability to follow instructions than in formal qualifications.
University
* Equivalent entry requirements explained
* Find a university course
* Funding advice
College or Training Provider
* Equivalent entry requirements explained
* Find a course near you
* Funding advice
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry. It is open to anyone over the age of 16 and typically involves full employment by the company and a split between on‑job experience and a college or training provider.
* Guide to apprenticeships
Work Experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You can gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a plant and mechanical engineer.
* Find out more about work experience
Skills
* Ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
* Knowledge of engineering science and technology
* Maths knowledge
* Design skills and knowledge
* Ability to work well with your hands
* Excellent attention to detail
* Problem-solving skills
* Practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
Qualifications
* Level 2 NVQ in Construction Plant Operations or Machinery Maintenance
* Level 2 Construction Plant Operative Apprenticeship
* SVQ at SCQF Level 5 & 6 in Plant Maintenance
* Modern apprenticeship SCQF Level 5 & 6 in Civil Engineering (Plant Maintenance)
* Level 1, 2 & 3 in Construction Plant Maintenance
* Level 2 & 3 apprenticeship in plant maintenance
Salary
* Newly trained plant and mechanical engineers can start at £29,000
* Trained with experience plant and mechanical engineers can earn up to £53,000*
Seniority level
Internship
Employment type
Part-time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
Industries
Construction
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