At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and improve the beautiful waterways of the North West, working outdoors.
- Company: Join the Canal & River Trust, a passionate team dedicated to preserving nature.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £25,115, great holidays, pension scheme, and employee perks.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for training and career progression.
- Why this job: Love the outdoors? Make a real difference while enjoying nature every day.
- Qualifications: A valid UK driving licence and a passion for outdoor work are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25115 - 35161 £ per year.
Job Description
Join Our Team: Waterway Operative – North West - 12 months Fixed Term Opportunity.
The following information aims to provide potential candidates with a better understanding of the requirements for this role.
Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive.
Join the Canal & River Trust as a Waterway Operative and play a vital role in maintaining and improving our beautiful waterways across the North West regions waterway network primarily focused on The Macclesfield and Peak Forest Canals. This is a hands-on, outdoor role where you'll carry out maintenance and repair works, operate locks and bridges, and provide excellent customer service to visitors.
Working Hours & Location
This is a fixed term contract until May 2027. This role follows an annualised hours system, including 5 days out of 7 (could be weekends and statutory holidays). You will also be part of a 24-hour operational standby team providing emergency cover. You'll be based at Swettenham Street, Macclesfield SK117BT with travel across the North West region, with occasional support in other areas.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out outdoor maintenance and repair of canal infrastructure.
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\tOperate locks, bridges, and other waterway assets safely and efficiently.
\tImprove towpaths and waterside areas, including repairs and litter removal.
\tDeliver excellent customer service to visitors and boaters.
\tWork collaboratively with volunteers to achieve high-quality results.
\tPlan and prepare for tasks, ensuring correct tools and materials are available.
\tUphold Canal & River Trust values and behaviours in all activities.
About you
If you enjoy practical, physical work in all weathers, value nature and the environment, and want to make a real difference to local communities, this could be the perfect role for you. Full training provided, including boat handling and asset operation.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong attention to detail and pride in delivering high-quality work.
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\tExcellent communication and customer service skills – you'll be the face of the Trust on our waterways.
\tBasic literacy and numeracy.
\tExperience in manual, construction, or outdoor environments is advantageous.
\tAbility to work to schedules and plans effectively.
\tBasic IT skills – comfortable using mobile devices and apps.
\tFull and current manual UK driving licence.
Contact & Application
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at We encourage early applications as we may close the vacancy once we receive enough suitable candidates.
What We Offer
We offer a starting salary of £25,115 with opportunities for progression. xsrmqjs Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits. For a full breakdown of our benefits, check out our brochure here: EVP - 1.
Learn more: MP
Waterway Operative in Macclesfield employer: Canal and River Trust
At Canal & River Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work outdoors while contributing to the maintenance and improvement of the North West's waterway network. Our supportive work culture fosters employee growth through comprehensive training and a clear salary progression plan, alongside generous benefits such as a competitive pension scheme, increased holiday entitlement, and paid volunteering leave. Join us in making a meaningful impact on our environment and community in the beautiful setting of Macclesfield.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Waterway Operative in Macclesfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, check out Canal & River Trust's website and social media. Understanding their values and recent projects will help you connect with the team and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the role of Waterway Operative, especially your love for outdoor work.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your practical skills! Whether it's operating tools or working in a team, think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your hands-on abilities and customer service skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional.
We think you need these skills to ace Waterway Operative in Macclesfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors:Make sure to highlight your love for outdoor work in your application. We want to see that you genuinely appreciate nature and enjoy working in all weather conditions, as this role is all about being out there maintaining our beautiful waterways.
Demonstrate Your Practical Skills:Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, let us know about any practical skills you have. Share your experiences in manual or outdoor environments, even if it's just volunteering. We value hands-on experience!
Communicate Clearly:Since you'll be the face of the Canal & River Trust, it's crucial to show off your communication skills. Make sure your application is clear and concise, and don’t forget to mention any customer service experience you have!
Apply Early!:We might close the vacancy early if we find enough suitable candidates, so don’t wait around! Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Canal and River Trust
✨Know Your Canals
Before the interview, take some time to research the Macclesfield and Peak Forest canals. Familiarise yourself with their history, current projects, and any recent news. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Your Love for the Outdoors
Since this role is all about working outdoors, be prepared to discuss your passion for nature and outdoor activities. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's volunteering, hobbies, or previous jobs that involved physical work outside.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Highlight your willingness to work on a rotating shift pattern and be on call when needed. Share examples from your past where you've had to adapt to changing schedules or unexpected situations, showing that you're ready for the demands of the job.
✨Customer Service Mindset
As you'll be interacting with visitors and customers, emphasise your customer service skills. Prepare to give examples of how you've provided excellent service in previous roles, and express your commitment to ensuring a positive experience for everyone using the waterways.
