Mechanical Fitter

Role overview

An FMCG manufacturer in Waterford is looking for a skilled, trade-qualified Mechanical Fitter to strengthen its Engineering Maintenance function. In this position, you will help keep production and utility equipment running reliably by carrying out maintenance, troubleshooting faults, completing repairs and supporting improvements that enhance output, efficiency and product quality. The role also places strong emphasis on meeting safety, hygiene and food safety standards.

What the role involves

• Deliver planned preventive maintenance on production and utility assets.
• Identify mechanical issues on manufacturing, packaging and process machinery and carry out repairs.
• React quickly to breakdowns so production interruptions are kept to a minimum.
• Fit, commission and adjust production equipment and related mechanical systems.
• Inspect equipment routinely to spot deterioration, damage or likely failures early.
• Change and align bearings, gearboxes, pumps, motors, conveyors, chains, belts and drive components.
• Maintain hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Contribute to improvement projects focused on greater equipment reliability and less downtime.
• Support machinery upgrades, capital works and new line installations.
• Record maintenance work accurately in the site CMMS.
• Use spare parts efficiently and flag replenishment needs when required.
• Work with Production, Quality and Engineering colleagues to improve equipment performance.
• Take part in root-cause investigations and corrective actions.
• Keep workshops and production areas clean, organised and safe.
• Participate in an on-call arrangement or shift rota where needed.

Health, safety and quality expectations

• Follow all applicable health and safety laws and company safety rules.
• Use lockout/tagout, permit-to-work and safe-isolation procedures correctly.
• Work in line with GMP, HACCP and food safety standards.
• Maintain the hygiene standards expected in a food production setting.
• Escalate hazards, near misses and other safety concerns without delay.
• Support ongoing quality management and continuous improvement systems.

Qualifications and experience

• A recognised Mechanical Fitter trade qualification is required, such as QQI Advanced Certificate Craft – Mechanical Automation & Maintenance Fitter or an equivalent award.
• A National Craft Certificate or another recognised apprenticeship qualification is also accepted.
• You must have full permission to work in Ireland.
• At least 3 years of post-apprenticeship experience is required, ideally gained in FMCG, food manufacturing, pharmaceutical or other high-volume production environments.
• Experience with automated production equipment is important.
• You should be comfortable working with rotating equipment, conveyors, pumps, gearboxes, bearings and mechanical power transmission systems.
• Practical experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems is needed.
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting and diagnostic ability is essential.
• Previous involvement in preventive maintenance programmes is expected.
• Familiarity with CMMS tools is required.
• You should have experience working safely in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Additional information

This is a fast-paced manufacturing role suited to someone who is proactive, mechanically strong and able to work effectively both on their own and as part of a multidisciplinary maintenance team.