Construction plant mechanic
Keep machinery on a construction site, such as diggers or dumper trucks, working safely and fix them if they break down.
About the job
What it's like
Construction plant mechanics keep the machines that build our world running smoothly. You'll work with powerful equipment, solving problems and making sure everything is safe and efficient.
You'll focus on inspecting, maintaining and repairing heavy machinery such as diggers, cranes and bulldozers. It's a rewarding role if you enjoy practical work and seeing the results of your efforts right away. You'll often be the person everyone relies on to keep projects moving, especially when a breakdown could cause costly delays.
You could work in industries such as construction, engineering, mining and even agriculture. Some mechanics specialise in certain types of machinery, such as earthmovers or lifting equipment or focus on diagnostics and hydraulics.
Your tasks might include:
carrying out routine servicing on excavators, dumpers and other plant machinery
diagnosing faults using electronic testing equipment
repairing or replacing damaged parts and components
testing equipment after repairs to make sure it's safe and working
keeping detailed service records and maintenance logs
responding to emergency breakdowns on site
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
maintain and repair low-emission or electric construction machinery
help reduce waste by extending the life of equipment
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Plant mechanic – more details of the role on Go Construct website
Scottish Plant Owners' Association – all about apprenticeships in construction plant work
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- analysing
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- evaluating
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Design and Manufacture
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Engineering Science
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Physics
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Practical Craft Skills
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Practical Electronics
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Skills for Work: Automotive Skills
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Most construction plant mechanics start their career through a Modern Apprenticeship, but there are a few routes you can take.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Construction: Technical.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Systems
Automotive Engineering
Work
You can become a construction plant mechanic through applying directly with an employer. This route works especially well if you have experience or qualifications in large goods vehicle (LGV) mechanics, or mechanical and electrical engineering maintenance.
Use the My World of Work job search to look for vacancies.
Sometimes, you may also need to have the Client/Contractor National Safety Group (CCNSG) Safety Passport to work in this job.
You usually need to pass an aptitude test to enter this role.
Construction plant mechanics must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent and pass a health and safety test to work and train on construction sites.
A full driving licence is usually essential and a special category of licence for driving heavy vehcles is sometimes needed.
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