Job description:
Position: Apprentice Garage Mechanic/Fitter
Location: McQuillan Quarries, Dundrod
Responsible to: Workshop Manager
Contract type: Full-time permanent
Salary: Competitive
Working hours:39 hours per week as well as overtime during mornings, evenings and weekends (weekends on a rota basis), which is a requirement for the role.
Why work for McQuillan Companies?
McQuillan Companies, a family-run business in Northern Ireland, offers a diverse range of services including roadworks, civil engineering, demolition, quarrying, waste management, outdoor cleaning, and analytical chemistry. If you're seeking a career in a growing company with a dynamic environment and great benefits, McQuillan Companies is for you. We value all perspectives and create a supportive space where people thrive.
John McQuillan Contracts is a leading civil engineering and road surfacing contractor based in Northern Ireland. The company carries out widely varying projects including, but not limited to, road construction and maintenance, surface treatments, car parks and environmental improvement schemes, coastal and inland waterway works, demolition and sports pitches. Utilising the extensive experience of our skilled technical staff and operational workforce, broad range of plant and equipment resources and long-standing relationships with specialist partners, we consistently deliver excellence for our expanding client base in the public and private sectors. High profile public sector clients include DfI Roads, Central Procurement Directorate and various Local Councils.
We offer a range of benefits including:
- Competitive salaries and overtime (where applicable)
- An excellent employee pension scheme
- 30 days of annual leave
- Working as a part of a dynamic group of professionals who excel at maintaining regulatory standards while fostering a supportive and welcoming environment
- Excellent development, learning and training opportunities
- Participation in a range of team building activities
- Employee Initiatives (Social & Fundraising activities)
- Free onsite parking
Overall objectives
We seek to appoint an Apprentice Garage Mechanic/Fitter to join our busy and expanding team within John McQuillan Contracts.
If you are looking for a career opportunity within a growing business that includes a range of benefits, in a dynamic and engaging working environment then McQuillan Companies is the place for you.
This role will require someone with a 'can do' attitude, a commercial approach and demonstrable attention to detail. The successful candidate will report to the Workshop Manager and must be hardworking, reliable and possess excellent communication & interpersonal skills. In return you will be awarded a competitive salary, variety within your role, the ability to build upon your existing experience within the profession and the opportunity to work within a friendly and supportive team.
This position is offered as an apprenticeship, making it a great opportunity for someone looking to learn and grow. Full training and learning and development support will be provided, combining hands-on experience with structured learning. While previous experience would be an advantage, it isnt essential. Were looking for someone eager to learn, and well support you every step of the way as you develop the skills and confidence for the role.
Key responsibilities:
- Assist senior mechanics with carrying out preventive maintenance and basic servicing to help keep vehicles and equipment in good working condition.
- Support the repair of vehicle faults by helping to remove, repair, adjust and reassemble components and parts under supervision.
- Assist with checking vehicle performance by supporting test procedures and helping to inspect controls and systems.
- Learn and follow relevant vehicle safety and environmental regulations when carrying out maintenance and repair tasks.
- Help maintain vehicle appearance by assisting with cleaning, washing and basic preparation work.
- Support the workshop team by preparing tools, equipment and parts required for servicing and repairs.
- Assist with organising parts and materials to help ensure repairs are carried out efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Accompany experienced mechanics to sites when required to assist with on-site repairs and maintenance of plant and equipment.
Essential Criteria:
- Full Driving licence;
- Currently completing NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance or similar;
- Good understanding of heavy plant and machinery, including maintenance planning;
- Excellent communication skills;
- Strong analytical/problem-solving and time management skills;
- Knowledge of Health and Safety issues and how they relate to practical working environments;
- Flexible approach to work.
Closing date for all applications:Friday 20th March 2026.
This job description should not be regarded as conclusive or definite. It is a guideline within which the individual jobholder works. It is not intended to be rigid or inflexible and may alter as the Companys strategic direction changes.
Skills:
Excellent communication and influencing skills Project management skills Good IT skills Strong customer service skills Min of 2 years experience in a supervisory role Flexible approach to work Good understanding of heavy plant and machinery
Benefits:
Competitive salaries L&D opportunities 30 days of annual leave
