Apprenticeships in

Construction Plant

Reaseheath delivers construction plant apprenticeship training for industry leaders including JCB, Kubota, GAP Group, HSS Hire, Flannery Plant & VP Plc, and welcomes employers of all sizes across the sector.

As a construction plant apprentice you will develop the basic principles you need to learn to become a plant mechanic and work on the engineering team of a plant or plant hire company.

At college you will learn vital work-based skills including maintenance and repair of construction plant and tool hire equipment.

What will I study?

  • Carry out detailed legal, regulatory, and organisational inspections of a wide range of construction plant and equipment, including road-going units, ensuring all legal requirements are met. 
  • Perform scheduled checks, servicing, and maintenance on construction equipment in line with manufacturer guidelines, organisational procedures, and safe working practices (including isolation procedures). 
  • Conduct advanced diagnostics on construction equipment systems such as: 
    • Internal combustion engines 
    • Electrical motors and power drives 
    • Transmission systems 
    • Chassis, steering and braking systems 
    • Power generation systems 
    • Hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems 
    • Electrical systems including high-voltage, battery, and AC/DC systems 
  • Use advanced diagnostic tools and analytical techniques to identify faults and performance issues. 
  • Decommission, dismantle, repair, upgrade, rebuild, and recommission faulty equipment components across a range of construction machinery. 
  • Identify opportunities for functional improvements or upgrades to equipment and components. 
  • Modify, adapt, or produce bespoke technical components using design and fabrication techniques in line with manufacturer specifications. 
  • Carry out commissioning and testing activities to ensure equipment functions correctly under no-load conditions using specialist testing equipment. 
  • Produce written reports and technical documentation relating to inspections, diagnostics, and maintenance activities. 
  • Provide technical guidance and advice to colleagues, customers, and stakeholders using correct construction equipment terminology. 
  • Identify and procure the tools, resources, and equipment required for maintenance activities. 
  • Plan and organise work schedules and maintenance tasks efficiently. 
  • Assess the viability of repairs, including conducting cost-benefit analysis in line with customer requirements. 
  • Programme electronic and mechatronic control systems to ensure machinery operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental standards. 
  • Apply health and safety legislation and safe working practices, including the use of appropriate safety equipment and environmental controls. 
  • Provide mentoring or instruction to colleagues on equipment operation, technical performance, and maintenance practices. 
  • Communicate effectively with clients, suppliers, customers, and end users regarding technical and maintenance matters. 
  • Maintain a clean, safe working environment, including housekeeping and waste management in line with environmental requirements. 
  • Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and professional development. 
  • Interpret engineering documentation such as technical drawings, schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals. 
  • Functional Skills or GCSE in English and Maths depending on previous qualifications

How long will it take?

  • 36 months (block release) plus a 3–6 month End Point Assessment (EPA) period. 

What qualifications do I need to start?

  • Preferably 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths 
  • A good understanding of IT systems 
  • Completion of an entry assessment 

What qualifications will I gain?

  • Level 3 Apprenticeship – Construction Equipment Maintenance Technician (ST0671)
  • Functional Skills or GCSE in English and Maths (if required)

You will also receive additional training in specialist areas including: 

  • Welding 
  • Abrasive Wheels 
  • Virtual Machine Operation 
  • High Voltage Awareness 

Course options after this programme

After completing this apprenticeship, you can: 

  • Progress further within the construction and engineering industry
  • Continue your education at a higher level through our University Centre

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship may support professional recognition with the: 

  • Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) – Engineering Technician 
  • Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) – Graduate 

For full details, please contact the professional body directly. 

Example progression routes

  • Lead Engineering Maintenance Technician 
  • Field Service Engineer 
  • Fixed Plant and Equipment Service Engineer 
  • Engineering Manufacturing Technician 
  • Construction Site Supervisor 
  • Outdoor Power Equipment Service Engineer 
  • Workshop Fitter 
  • Workshop Mechanic 
  • Workshop-Based Engineer