Mechanical Engineer (Level 3)

HMP Hollesley Bay, Woodbridge

Permanent Band 9 25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Your new company

You'll be joining the estates and maintenance team at HMP Hollesley Bay, supporting the safe and compliant operation of the site. Working within the Operations department, you'll help ensure the prison's mechanical systems are maintained to a high standard and meet all statutory requirements.

Your new roleAs a Level 3 Mechanical Engineer, you will deliver planned and reactive maintenance across plumbing, heating, and water services. You'll carry out installations, testing, commissioning, fault finding, repairs, and quality control inspections-including confined space and working-at-height tasks. You'll record all work accurately and support the overall delivery of site service levels.The role includes supervising prisoners during work activities, escorting contractors, maintaining tool control, and ensuring adherence to Health & Safety and security procedures.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver reactive mechanical maintenance and ensure faults are rectified promptly.
• Complete plumbing and mechanical installations, testing, commissioning, and small repairs.
• Carry out planned preventative maintenance and respond to tasks raised by the CAFM system.
• Prioritise workload effectively, escalating issues when required.
• Supervise prisoners during daily work and training activities.
• Undertake quality control inspections, including confined space and height-related work.
• Maintain accurate registers, logs, and documentation.
• Monitor stock levels and request materials as needed.
• Escort and supervise contractors in line with the Local Security Strategy (LSS).
• Maintain regular radio communication following security protocols.
• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation and safe systems of work.
• Drive estate vehicles and operate plant equipment when qualified.
• Carry out locking duties when required.
• Support emergency and urgent tasks within required timescales.
• Contribute to safe working practices, tool control, and local process improvements.
• Build strong working relationships and deliver excellent customer service.
• Undertake Fire Warden or First Aider duties if appointed.

What you'll need to succeed

Essential:

• NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering, Plumbing, or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years' experience as a mechanical engineer, plumber, or similar

Desirable:

• Experience with commercial/industrial heating and water systems
• Knowledge of Water Supply Regulations
• Understanding of Legionella L8 requirements (training provided if needed)
• Good knowledge of planned preventative maintenance

Highly Desirable:

• G3 Unvented Hot Water Systems qualification

Behaviours

• Managing a Quality Service (essential)
• Making Effective Decisions (essential)
• Delivering at Pace (essential)
• Working Together

What you'll get in return

• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Permanent, stable role within a supportive team
• Training and development opportunities
• Pension and wider employee benefits

What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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