About Vulcanising South West Ltd

Vulcanising South West Ltd is a well-established belting solutions company based in Saltash, Cornwall, serving clients across the South West and beyond. For years, we have built our reputation on the quality of our workmanship, the reliability of our service, and the dedication of our people. We specialise in industrial rubber vulcanising, conveyor belt installation, and on-site fitting for a wide range of industries including manufacturing, mining, food processing, logistics, and recycling operations. Our team is at the heart of everything we do, and we take pride in delivering tailored solutions that keep our clients' operations running smoothly and efficiently. As we continue to grow and take on new projects across the region and nationally, we are now looking to expand our workshop and on-site teams with a skilled and enthusiastic Workshop Fabricator / On-Site Fitter. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is mechanically minded, enjoys hands-on work, and wants to develop a long-term career with a company that genuinely invests in its people.

The Role

As a Workshop Fabricator / On-Site Fitter, you will split your time between our fully equipped head office workshop in Saltash and customer sites across the South West and occasionally further afield. Your work will involve the preparation, fabrication, repair, and industrial vulcanising of rubber conveyor belts and related systems. On-site, you will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and emergency repair of conveyor systems, ensuring minimal downtime for our clients. This role demands a practical, problem-solving approach and the ability to work both independently and as part of a close-knit team. Full training will be provided in all aspects of vulcanising techniques, belt splicing, and on-site safety procedures, so prior experience in vulcanising is not essential. However, a background in mechanical fitting, fabrication, or working with conveyor systems would be a significant advantage.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and fabricate industrial rubber conveyor belts in the workshop, including cutting, stripping, and splicing belt materials to precise specifications using vulcanising presses and hand tools.
Perform hot and cold vulcanising processes on various belt types, including steel cord, nylon, and textile-reinforced belts, ensuring joints meet manufacturer standards and client expectations.
Carry out on-site installations, inspections, and maintenance of conveyor systems at client locations, including belt tracking, tensioning, and pulley alignment.
Respond to emergency call-outs for conveyor breakdowns, diagnosing faults on-site and executing repairs efficiently to minimise production downtime for clients.
Fabricate and weld metal components such as belt fasteners, skirting, and guardrails as required for conveyor system builds and modifications.
Maintain accurate records of work completed, materials used, and time spent on each job using our internal reporting systems.
Ensure all work is carried out in strict compliance with health and safety regulations, including risk assessments, method statements, and the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Conduct routine servicing and quality checks on vulcanising equipment, presses, and workshop machinery to ensure operational readiness.
Communicate effectively with clients on-site, explaining work scopes, providing technical advice, and representing Vulcanising South West Ltd in a professional manner at all times.
Support the training and development of junior team members as the company continues to grow, sharing knowledge and best practices across the team.

Work Environment and Culture

You will be based primarily at our head office workshop in Saltash, Cornwall, but should be prepared for regular travel to client sites throughout the South West region. Some overnight stays may be required depending on project locations and deadlines. We operate a friendly, down-to-earth team culture where every member is valued and supported. The company ethos is built around quality workmanship, honest communication, and continuous improvement. You will work alongside experienced fitters and vulcanisers who are passionate about passing on their knowledge and helping you grow in the role.

What We Are Looking For

Mechanically minded with a practical, hands-on approach to problem-solving.
Previous experience in mechanical fitting, fabrication, welding, or working with conveyor systems is highly desirable but not essential.
Familiarity with tools such as angle grinders, vulcanising presses, belt skivers, and general workshop hand tools.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
Strong commitment to health and safety practices in both workshop and on-site environments.
Good physical fitness, as the role involves manual handling, lifting, and working in varied environments including outdoor sites and confined spaces.
Full UK driving licence is essential, as travel to client sites is a regular part of the role.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional early starts, late finishes, and weekend call-outs to meet client needs.
Excellent communication skills and a professional attitude when dealing with clients face-to-face.
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently when on-site without direct supervision.
UK applicants only, based on right-to-work requirements.

Technical Skills and Tools

Industrial rubber vulcanising (hot and cold processes)
Conveyor belt splicing and repair
Mechanical fitting and alignment
Basic MIG/TIG welding and fabrication
Use of vulcanising presses, belt skivers, and hydraulic pulling equipment
Hand and power tools including angle grinders, drills, and impact wrenches
Health and safety compliance including COSHH, PUWER, and LOLER regulations
Basic computer literacy for job reporting and communication

Benefits and What We Offer

Competitive salary dependent on experience, with overtime opportunities available.
Full company training and ongoing professional development in vulcanising and belt fitting techniques.
Company vehicle provided for on-site travel.
PPE and all specialist tools and equipment supplied.
Opportunity to work with a growing, independent company where your contribution genuinely matters.
Supportive team environment with experienced colleagues willing to mentor and guide your development.
Variety of work between workshop and on-site environments, ensuring no two days are the same.
Long-term career progression opportunities as the company expands its operations.

Career Growth

Vulcanising South West Ltd is in a phase of sustained growth, and we are committed to promoting from within wherever possible. As a new team member, you will have the opportunity to develop specialist vulcanising skills that are in high demand across multiple industries. With experience, there are clear pathways to senior fitter, team leader, or supervisory roles. We also support external qualifications and certifications relevant to the trade, helping you build a recognised career in industrial belting and fabrication.

How to Apply

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we would love to hear from you. Please send your details and a brief summary of your experience to info@vulcanisingsw.com. We review applications on a rolling basis and will be in touch to discuss the next steps with suitable candidates. The hiring process will involve an initial telephone conversation followed by a face-to-face interview and workshop visit at our Saltash facility, giving you the chance to meet the team and see the working environment firsthand.