Mechanical & Electrical Plant Fitter (Strood, GB)

Opportunity Review: Mechanical & Electrical Plant Fitter

This is a compelling opportunity for a skilled Mechanical & Electrical Plant Fitter to join the UK's largest electricity distributor, UK Power Networks. Reporting to the Field Staff Supervisor, this permanent role is based in Rochester with essential travel across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. If you're looking to contribute to a vital sector and advance your career in a stable and well-resourced organization, this position warrants serious consideration.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role: You will play a critical part in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of mechanical plant and electrical equipment up to 132kV, directly contributing to the reliable power supply for millions of homes and businesses.
• Competitive Remuneration: The role offers an attractive starting salary of £42,005, complemented by a 3% bonus.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the salary, UK Power Networks provides a robust benefits scheme designed to support your well-being and financial security. This includes:
  • Generous Annual Leave: 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
  • Pension Scheme: A strong personal pension plan with significant employer contributions (8% or 10% matching your 4% or 5% contribution).
  • Financial Support: Access to a Tenancy Loan Deposit Scheme and Season Ticket Loans to assist with major life expenses.
  • Tax-Efficient Schemes: Opportunities to save money through Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, and Green Car Leasing schemes.
  • Health and Well-being: Occupational Health support, a "Switched On" discount scheme, discounted gym membership, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Specialized Leave: 18 days of paid Reservist Leave, plus 22 unpaid days, offering valuable flexibility.
• Career Development: The description explicitly mentions the possibility of further training for essential skills and qualifications, indicating a commitment to developing its workforce. This is a significant advantage for those looking to grow within the industry.
• Organizational Stability: As part of UK Power Networks, you'll be joining a well-established and vital utility company that invests significantly in its infrastructure and is actively involved in the transition to a low-carbon future.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Location and Travel: While based in Rochester, the role requires travel to sites across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Candidates should be comfortable with regular travel and potentially working at various locations within the UK Power Networks area.
• Essential Qualifications: A Mechanical or Electrical apprenticeship and a current driving licence are mandatory. Experience in site work with a mechanical bias is also essential.
• Desirable Skills: While not strictly required for all roles, holding a City & Guilds Part 232/2339 qualification, experience on regional electricity networks, competency on the SPN network, experience as a Permit to Work recipient, and experience working at height or with PASMA scaffolds are highly desirable and may be beneficial for advancement (e.g., to a DD grade).
• Safety Focus: A strong emphasis is placed on Safety, Health, and Environment. Candidates must be committed to maintaining a high standard of quality, performing risk assessments, reporting hazards, and adhering to all UKPN policies and procedures. A commitment to safety culture is paramount.
• Medical and DBS Checks: Successful candidates will be required to undergo a medical examination and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) reference check.
• Physical Demands: For roles involving work at height, there is an upper weight limit of 116Kg due to the safe working load of safety equipment.
• Flexibility: The ability to work independently or as part of a team, communicate effectively with control rooms, and potentially undertake stand-by duties will be necessary.

This Mechanical & Electrical Plant Fitter position presents a fantastic chance to join a leading organization in the energy sector. With its competitive package, robust benefits, and commitment to employee development, it offers a stable and rewarding career path for dedicated professionals.