Mechanic / Plant & Fleet Technician

Company: Colchester Zoo Limited
Apply for the Mechanic / Plant & Fleet Technician
Location: Colchester
Job Description:

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.

  • 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.
  • FREE Zoo visits*
  • FREE onsite parking
  • Staff events
  • Discounts on Animal Adoptions, Annual Memberships and Animal Experiences*
  • Discounts in the Outpost Gift Shop*
  • Discounts in food outlets
  • 28 days annual leave (incl. Bank Holidays)
  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Uniform provided
  • Regular training
  • Weekly staff newsletter

#J-18808-Ljbffr…

Posted: June 1st, 2026