At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate specialist foundation equipment and support major infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Bouygues, a leader in civil engineering and sustainable construction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, long-term project stability, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative international environment with a focus on safety and quality.
- Why this job: Be part of a landmark project that shapes the UK's infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Experience in diaphragm wall and deep foundation works is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Bouygues Civil Works Division. Specialists in civil engineering and complex structures, delivering major infrastructure and land-use projects worldwide. As part of Bouygues Travaux Publics, we are committed to sustainable construction, diversity, and welcoming talent from all backgrounds.
About The Role
We are seeking an experienced Grab/Cutter Operator to join the Lower Thames Crossing project, supporting the delivery of one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure schemes. This role is suited to a highly experienced specialist foundations professional with strong expertise in diaphragm wall, piling, hydromill, grab, and deep foundation operations on complex civil engineering projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in safely delivering technically demanding geotechnical and underground works within a major infrastructure environment. We are looking for someone who combines hands‑on operational capability with strong site awareness, leadership, and a proactive approach to health, safety, and quality.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate specialist foundation equipment including hydromill, grab, and piling rigs
- Support and supervise diaphragm wall and deep foundation operations
- Deliver works safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications
- Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and subcontractors on site activities
- Monitor excavation quality, verticality, slurry management, and reinforcement installation
- Carry out daily equipment checks and basic maintenance coordination
- Ensure compliance with all HSE procedures and site safety requirements
- Support productivity targets while maintaining high technical standards
- Assist with troubleshooting operational and technical site issues
- Contribute to accurate reporting and communication across shifts and work fronts
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are particularly interested in candidates with experience on major infrastructure, tunnelling, rail, underground, marine, or large‑scale civil engineering projects.
Essential Experience
- Significant experience in diaphragm wall and deep foundation works
- Experience operating hydromill and/or grab systems
- Background within piling and geotechnical operations
- Experience working on large infrastructure or heavy civil engineering projects
- Strong understanding of safe lifting, excavation, and slurry operations
- Ability to work effectively within multicultural project teams
- Strong awareness of QA/QC and HSE requirements on major projects
Desirable Experience
- Experience on rail, metro, tunnel, marine, dam, or underground projects
- Previous international project exposure
- Experience supervising crews or acting as foreman/operator supervisor
- Bentonite and polymer slurry experience
- Exposure to cut‑off wall construction
Qualifications & Certifications
- Relevant operator tickets/certifications
- CPCS / NPORS or equivalent preferred
- SMSTS / SSSTS advantageous
- CSCS card preferred
- Valid right to work in the UK or willingness to relocate/sponsor discussion where applicable
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work on one of the UK’s landmark infrastructure projects
- Long‑term project stability
- Collaborative international project environment
- Competitive salary and package
- Career progression within specialist foundations and major civil engineering works
Grab/Cutter Operator (2 Year FTC) employer: Bouygues Travaux Publics
Bouygues Civil Works Division is an exceptional employer, offering the chance to work on the prestigious Lower Thames Crossing project, a landmark infrastructure initiative in the UK. With a strong commitment to sustainable construction and diversity, employees benefit from a collaborative international work environment, competitive salaries, and ample opportunities for career progression within the specialist foundations and civil engineering sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grab/Cutter Operator (2 Year FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, join relevant groups on social media, and attend events. The more people you know in the civil engineering world, the better your chances of landing that Grab/Cutter Operator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with hydromill and grab systems. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges on site to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay proactive! Keep an eye on job boards and our website for openings. Applying directly through our site can give you an edge, as we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready to answer technical questions about diaphragm wall and deep foundation works. Brush up on your knowledge of HSE procedures and site safety to show you're the right fit for our projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Grab/Cutter Operator (2 Year FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with diaphragm wall and deep foundation works. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in operating hydromill and grab systems!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working on major infrastructure projects and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Safety Awareness:Since safety is a big deal for us, make sure to mention your understanding of HSE procedures and site safety requirements. Highlight any specific experiences where you’ve successfully maintained high safety standards on site.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bouygues Travaux Publics
✨Know Your Equipment
Make sure you’re well-versed in the operation of hydromills, grabs, and piling rigs. Brush up on the technical specifications and safety protocols for each piece of equipment, as you might be asked to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous projects in detail, especially those involving diaphragm walls and deep foundations. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will show your problem-solving skills and hands-on experience.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Since health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance is crucial in this role, be ready to talk about your approach to maintaining safety standards on site. Share specific examples of how you've ensured safe operations in past roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
This position requires working closely with engineers and subcontractors, so be prepared to discuss your experience in multicultural teams. Share examples of how you’ve effectively communicated and coordinated with others to achieve project goals.
