Interview with Boels Field Based Mechanic Paul Snijkers

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Our equipment can be found everywhere. Where it often has an essential role for our customers to move forward. It is therefore important that it is in top condition. Our mechanics play a key role in this. So does Paul Snijkers, who has been working for Boels Rental since 2012, first as a mechanic at the Weert branch and from 2016 in his current job as area mechanic.

What does a Field Based Mechanic do exactly?

As an all-round mechanic, I am responsible for solving all kinds of faults at sites across central and northern Limburg, and for inspecting machines. I also help my colleagues with repairs at the different depots. It’s diverse and challenging work and every job calls for a different solution, which is what makes it so much fun.

Why did you choose this job?

I actually started out as a truck mechanic. After a carrier switch, I began as a mechanic at the Boels depot in Weert. We had a good team there and the atmosphere was great. So it was a tough decision when they asked if I wanted to switch over to Field Based Mechanic. But at the same time, I was ready for a new challenge within Boels and I really found my calling as Field Based Mechanic.

“I’m proud when I drive onto a site or festival and see orange machines or units everywhere. It does something to me and then I know that our account manager has really done his best for us as a company.”

What is the most fun part of your job?

Do you have a while? Seriously, I think it’s the combination of a lot of factors. Starting with the freedom and trust I get from our team and elsewhere, the variety of workplaces, the challenge of solving all kinds of mechanical faults, and the contact with customers and colleagues. My day is never the same and that’s really cool. One day you’re on a building site and the next you’re at a big festival. I love being among people, whether they’re my colleagues or our customers. The main thing is that we finish our task successfully and unburden the customer as quickly as possible.

What growth opportunities are offered to you by the company?

The first that comes to mind are the courses and training we are offered. I’m not the studying type, but I do love working with my hands. But I must say that the training courses we get when new (eco-friendly) machines are introduced are very interesting and teaching style is pleasant. That’s also important. The changes in our industry are happening fast. If I have to solve a breakdown somewhere, I want to have the latest technical knowledge. Especially when it comes to electrically powered machines. It’s a whole new world that I’d like to discover together with my colleagues. This is the future we are preparing for as a team.

“It’s diverse and challenging work and every job calls for a different solution, which is what makes it so much fun.”

When you talk to people about your work, what do you tell them?

That I work in a family business where I feel good and valued. Look, if it wasn’t true, then I wouldn’t be working here for 11 years. Right? Every effort is made to make you feel comfortable at work. The New Year’s reception is always a nice get-together. One year ago I celebrated my tenth anniversary. A day I’ll never forget. But the barbecues at the depots you’re invited to also feel really good and are a show of appreciation that together we are ‘Boels’. I can recommend everyone to come and work here, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.