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- Tasks: Operate wheeled excavators for civil engineering projects, maintaining and constructing infrastructure.
- Company: Join Forestry England, a leader in sustainable forestry and civil engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy local work, overtime opportunities, and potential for a permanent role after the pilot.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment while contributing to impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Must have experience with wheeled excavators and relevant plant operating qualifications.
- Other info: This is a trial scheme lasting at least 12 months, with potential for permanent employment.
We are recruiting a Civil Engineering Excavator Machine Operator for our client Forestry England.
Location: Based from Santon Downham, Thetford, Norfolk IP270TJ (Occasional working away required at job sites in the East and South-East of England)
Working Pattern: 37 hours per week - Monday to Thursday 8:30am-5pm / Friday 8:30am-4:30pm (Some flexibility may be required)
We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Machine Operator, working in the Civil Engineering department within a Forestry environment. Experience with groundworks and operating construction plant is essential. The ideal candidate must possess a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. You will be responsible for carrying out maintenance and construction of civil engineering assets (such as forest roads, paths, and drainage), ensuring adherence to project specifications and industry safety standards. This vacancy is part of a trial scheme that is anticipated to last for at least 12 months. If the pilot is successful then this may lead the role to become permanent in the future.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintenance and Construction: Undertake civil engineering/groundworks operations in order to maintain existing infrastructure as well as construct new infrastructure. Projects will include roads, paths, bridges, and drainage works. Successful candidate will be the sole operator of the excavator and carry out the work as directed by the Site Supervisor.
- Site Management: Ordering of materials (predominantly aggregates) and ensuring each site location is managed safely and efficiently.
- Documentation and Reporting: Accurate recording using site diaries, plant checks and daily site inspections, plus feedback to Civil Engineer/line manager.
- Travel: Candidate will need to arrange travel to and from worksites - 80-90% within Thetford Forest and the surrounding areas. Infrequent travel to more distant job sites is required, with occasional overnight stays depending on project location (Kent, Sussex, Buckinghamshire etc.)
- Collaboration: Work closely with Civil Engineers and other colleagues within the organisation to support smooth project delivery.
- Safety Compliance: Follow all safety guidelines and protocols to maintain a safe working environment.
Individual:
- Experience: Previous experience operating construction plant on groundworks/highways jobs is essential. Candidate must have experience operating wheeled excavators - this will form a large part of the role.
- Accreditations: Candidate must hold relevant CPCS/NPORS or equivalent qualification for plant as follows: Wheeled Excavator (above and below 10T) and Tracked Excavator (above and below 10T). Qualifications for Ride-on Roller and Forward Tipping Dumper are desirable.
- Skills: Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work as part of a team.
- Travel: Willingness to travel occasionally, including spending consecutive nights away from home.
Benefits:
- Overtime opportunities
- Mostly local work (Thetford area)
- If the pilot is successful then we are looking for this to become permanent in the future. If the successful individual has been part of this pilot then they will have gained valuable experience that will benefit them if they choose to apply for a permanent position.
Excavator Machine Operator - Civil Engineering employer: Acorn Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Acorn Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Excavator Machine Operator - Civil Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of excavators mentioned in the job description, particularly wheeled excavators. Understanding their operation and maintenance will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the civil engineering and forestry sectors. Attend local industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Forestry England and their projects to understand their values and current initiatives. This knowledge can help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experience with groundworks and operating construction plant. Be ready to provide specific examples of projects you've worked on, highlighting your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently as an excavator operator.
We think you need these skills to ace Excavator Machine Operator - Civil Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience operating wheeled excavators and any relevant groundworks or civil engineering projects you've worked on. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your relevant qualifications, such as CPCS/NPORS certifications, and explain how your experience aligns with the job requirements.
Highlight Safety Compliance: Emphasise your commitment to safety in your application. Provide examples of how you have adhered to safety protocols in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
Show Willingness to Travel: Clearly state your willingness to travel for work, including overnight stays if necessary. This shows your flexibility and readiness to meet the job's demands.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience operating wheeled excavators and any relevant groundworks or highways jobs. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on and the challenges you faced.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since safety compliance is crucial in this role, be ready to talk about how you ensure a safe working environment. Mention any safety protocols you follow and how you handle potential hazards on site.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to the operation of construction plant machinery. Brush up on your technical knowledge regarding excavators and other equipment you may be asked about, including maintenance practices.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
This role involves working closely with Civil Engineers and other team members. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects and how you communicate effectively with colleagues.
