Mechanic / Plant & Fleet Technician

Main entrance at Colchester Zoological Society

Department
Maintenance

Location
Colchester Zoological Society

Employment Type
Full Time

Hours Per Week
5 Days Per Week

Salary
To be discussed at interview

Closing Date
17th June 2026

If you are interested in applying, please complete the Application Form below and send the completed form along with your CV to hr@colchesterzoo.org

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Job Purpose

To inspect, service, repair, and maintain a wide range of company equipment and vehicles, ensuring all fleet vehicles, construction plant machinery, hydraulic systems, pressure washers, and handheld petrol-powered tools remain safe, compliant, and operational at all times.

Role Responsibilities

Carry out routine servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on:
- Fleet vehicles (vans, pickups and trailers)
- Construction plant machinery
- Handheld petrol-powered equipment
- Pressure washers and jetting equipment
- Hydraulic systems and components
Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, fuel, ignition, electrical, and engine faults efficiently.
Perform preventative maintenance inspections and safety checks to minimise downtime and breakdowns.
Repair and replace worn or damaged parts including pumps, hoses, belts, bearings, filters, seals, and hydraulic fittings.
Maintain hydraulic systems including fault finding, hose replacement, leak detection, and pressure testing.
Service and repair small petrol engines used in handheld equipment such as:
- Cut-off saws
- Strimmers
- Hedge cutters
- Blowers
- Generators
Inspect, test, and maintain pressure washers and associated equipment to ensure safe operation.
Complete vehicle and machinery inspections in accordance with company procedures and legal requirements.
Ensure all maintenance records, service reports, inspection sheets, and repair documentation are completed accurately.
Maintain workshop cleanliness, organisation, and safe working practices.
Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations and company policies.
Assist with breakdown response and emergency repairs both on-site and in the workshop when required.
Monitor stock levels of workshop consumables and spare parts and report shortages.

Role Requirements

Proven experience as a mechanic, plant fitter, or fleet maintenance technician.
Strong knowledge of:
- Diesel and petrol engines
- Hydraulic systems
- Construction plant equipment
- Fleet vehicle maintenance
- Small engine diagnostics and repairs
Ability to diagnose faults using both manual and diagnostic methods.
Experience working with pressure washer systems and hydraulic equipment preferred.
Good understanding of workshop health & safety procedures.
Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively.
Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
Relevant mechanical qualification (NVQ, City & Guilds, or equivalent) preferred.
Full UK driving licence required.
LOLER / PUWER awareness beneficial.

Working Hours

This is a permanent full time position 5 days per week.
Normal hours will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 4:30pm.

Uniform

Full uniform will be provided. Uniform must be worn at all times with a name badge.

Evaluation

For the first five months of employment, the jobholder will be asked to complete a one month, three month and five month self-assessment. This will gauge their feelings of the job and assess their progress towards meeting targets.

Working Environment

Workshop and field-based work.
Manual handling and lifting of heavy components involved.
Use of PPE required at all times where applicable.
CZS is a non-smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
CZS is an equal opportunities employer.