Mechanical Engineer / Operator-Fitter (Rail Grinding Machines) Location: UK Mobile (Nationwide Travel)
Package Overview
Starting Salary (Level 1): £43,000
Annual Bonus: 7.5% paid twice yearly (15% total) = £6,450 per year
Salary rises after probation and rail safety competencies are passed.
Following the rail grinding train around the UK as a service engineer/fitter
Working away from home for 3 weeks with 1 rest week every 3 weeks.
Shift pattern is 6 days on 1 day off for 3 weeks, then 7 days off.
Clear salary and bonus progression annually Job Overview:
We are recruiting for experienced Mechanical Engineers / Fitters to join a specialist rail grinding fleet operating nationwide.
Working 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.
This 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.
This position would suit candidates from heavy plant, rail, mining, marine, military or other heavy industrial maintenance backgrounds.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain and operate rail grinding machines in line with operational plans and rail safety standards
Carry out preventative and reactive maintenance on mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems
Strip down, inspect and rebuild grinding heads, motors, gearboxes and drive assemblies
Change and set grinding stones, monitoring grinding output and machine performance
Diagnose and repair hydraulic faults (pumps, cylinders, hoses, valves)
Complete daily inspections, underframe cleaning and component servicing
Fault-find mechanical and basic electrical control systems
Work safely within rail possessions during night and weekend shifts
Accurately complete maintenance documentation and defect reports Maintenance and Operation:
Maintain, fault-find and repair rail grinding machines and on-track plant
Carry out preventative and reactive maintenance on hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical systems
Inspect and maintain pumps, motors, gearboxes, hoses, cylinders and valves
Diagnose hydraulic pressure faults and mechanical wear issues
Strip down, rebuild and replace worn components
Undertake daily safety inspections and underframe cleaning
Use hand tools, torque equipment and diagnostic test gear
Complete maintenance records and work in line with rail safety standards
Safety & Compliance:
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental safeguards.
Complete daily work return forms and maintain machine safety packs and operational records.
Serve as 2nd man/fire watch during grinding operations.
Carry out Controller of Site Safety (COSS) duties if required. Person Specification:
Qualifications & Experience:
MUST HAVE: NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering or a formal apprenticeship in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering.
Previous experience in heavy industrial maintenance, such as agriculture, aggregates, rolling stock, offshore, or plant fitting.
Hydraulics and pneumatics experience is highly desirable.
Must hold a full driving licence, NO MORE THAN 3 POINTS
Must pass a full rail medical and drug and alcohol screening test
Must pass a criminal record background check (DBS) Work Schedule:
Shift Patterns:
6 days on, 1 day off while away, when working a 4-night shift pattern, you will be given 2 days off.
You will be working 280 hours over 8 weeks.
You will be provided with a detailed monthly rota, but flexibility is essential.
Travel:
Extensive travel across the UK.
Full Hotel lodging will be provided at Holiday Inn hotels or Premier Inns, with your own room and breakfast included.
£45 per night paid when working away as your allowance, which is £7,500 per year and paid into your salary each month
Holiday & Time Off:
34 days annual leave (including bank holidays).
1 rest week off every 3 weeks (13 weeks per year)
Additional Benefits:
The use of a company van and fuel card when needed.
Life assurance and health care cash plan.
Pension scheme.
Employee Assistance Programme for well-being.
Eye care vouchers.
Long service awards and seasonal ticket loan options. Training & Progression:
Full training will be provided, including manual handling, machine setup, and pack-away for operation.
Progression opportunities include advancing from Level 1 to Level 3, with the chance to increase salary significantly within two years.
Opportunities for further progression include training to become a train driver, which requires a psychometric test. Work Environment:
You will work in a close-knit team of engineers, building long-lasting relationships.
The work involves being on board rail grinding machines, working in dirty and dusty conditions.
You 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.
We 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