Skilled Operative / Multi Trader

Salary: 40,976 per annum
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week
Location: Gravesend

About the Organisation

We are recruiting on behalf of our client, an organisation with responsibility for managing, maintaining, and improving a major stretch of tidal river infrastructure that is critical to the UK's economy, trade, and transport network. Their work goes far beyond that of a traditional port operator, combining engineering, environmental stewardship, and long-term asset management.

The Role

An opportunity has arisen for a Skilled Operative to join the Civil Engineering team on a permanent basis. Working as part of the Trades Team, the role focuses primarily on groundworks, alongside a wide range of construction, repair, and maintenance activities.

You will be involved in delivering small construction projects and maintaining existing assets, ensuring all works are completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard using appropriate construction methods and finishing techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as deputy for the Construction Supervisor or Revetment Manager when required
• Monitor material usage and report shortages or requirements
• Plan, organise, and prioritise daily tasks to meet project timelines
• Maintain quality control of permanent works, addressing any issues promptly
• Set out works and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and plans
• Escalate site or technical issues to the Construction Supervisor or Civil Engineers
• Carry out groundworks including excavation, trenching, levelling, and backfilling
• Install drainage systems, manholes, and associated utility services
• Lay foundations, concrete, and hard landscaping materials
• Operate vehicles and plant as part of site activities
• Ensure all works are completed to a durable, high-quality finish
• Carry out site checks to secure equipment, plant, materials, and fuel

Skills and Experience Required

• Minimum 10 years' experience within the construction industry, with a strong focus on groundworks and civil engineering
• Experience working in a maritime or waterside environment is desirable
• Competent in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel
• Relevant trade qualification (City & Guilds FTC or minimum Level 2 NVQ in Building Maintenance or Multi-Trade)
• Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) qualification
• Full UK driving licence essential
• C1 LGV licence required or willingness to complete funded training
• IPAF 3a & 3b licence, or willingness to undertake training
• Broad multi-trade capability including groundworks, drainage, carpentry, bricklaying, roofing, painting & decorating, and kitchen fitting
• Qualified, or willing to be trained, in plant operation, working at height, and working over water

Benefits Package

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Medical Cash Plan
• Generous pension scheme
• Onsite parking with electric vehicle charging
• Access to occupational health services, counselling, mindfulness support, and physiotherapy
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Car leasing scheme
• Gym and lifestyle discounts