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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair vital canal infrastructure while working outdoors.
- Company: Join one of the UK’s biggest charities dedicated to preserving waterways.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £28,154, pension scheme, and increasing holiday entitlement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities and enjoy a fulfilling outdoor career.
- Qualifications: Practical skills, trade apprenticeship, and a full UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Flexible working options and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 28154 - 28154 £ per year.
About the Trust
We’re one of the UK’s biggest charities and we care for 2,000 miles of canals, rivers, docks and reservoirs because we believe life is better by water. We’re looking for people who support our cause and want to make a difference for future generations. Along with our waterways we also manage museums, archives and the country’s third largest collection of historic buildings, as well as the nature and wildlife that calls our canals home. All of this enables us to provide wellbeing opportunities for millions of people each year.
Join Our Team: Craft Operative (Carpentry) opportunity
This role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact by helping maintain and enhance our beautiful canal network. You’ll work on locks, bridges, aqueducts, towpaths, and more - preserving these historic assets for everyone to enjoy. The Direct Services team delivers the essential, on-the-ground work that keeps our waterways running - from planned maintenance and construction projects to emergency repairs and heritage restoration. They combine skilled trades, practical know-how and a real passion for the outdoors to repair infrastructure, respond to urgent issues, and look after the places communities love. Their work makes a visible difference every single day.
This role works under an annualised hours system and typically operates 5 days out of 7, which may include weekends and statutory holidays. At times, operational demands may require working more than 5 days within a 7-day period. You will also be part of a 24-hour operational standby rota, providing emergency cover when needed. New starters will only join the on-call rota once they are fully trained and confident in the role. Administratively based out of Fradley Junction, this role will require regular travel across the West Midlands region and support other regions when required. The majority of the team's work is concentrated south of Fradley Junction in Litchfield, Birmingham, Coventry, Leamington Spa. This will include the Birmingham Canal Navigations, Coventry Canal, Oxford Canal, Upper Trent, & others.
Role Overview
As a Craft Operative, you’ll undertake essential construction work and help maintain and repair vital canal infrastructure, fit and refurbish lock gates, and collaborate with specialist teams. Your work will support our commitment to safety, heritage, and environmental standards and help keep canals open and alive.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out outdoor maintenance and repairs to canal infrastructure.
- Use construction skills including masonry work and joinery to refurbish and repair assets.
- Interpret and apply technical drawings and specifications to guide construction activities.
- Operate tools and machinery safely and responsibly, ensuring proper use of PPE and materials.
- Maintain equipment and workspace to high standards.
- Respond to customer queries and emergencies with care and professionalism.
- Support and guide volunteers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
- Travel regionally to support priority construction projects.
About You
We welcome individuals with practical skills and a willingness to learn. Whether you come from a building or specialism background, your experience and enthusiasm will help you thrive in this role.
Skills & Qualifications
- Trade relevant apprenticeship or equivalent qualification (e.g. City & Guilds or NVQ Level 2).
- Practical construction experience, including safe operation of tools and equipment such as chainsaws and site plant.
- Possession of H&S competencies and/or valid, assessed certifications for the safe and effective use of plant, tools, and equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
- Full and current UK driving licence.
Contact & Application
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at CRT.recruitment@canalrivertrust.org.uk. 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 £28,154, with opportunities for progression. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits.
Our values
We care passionately for our waterways, and as importantly, for those who look after and use them. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive. We are striving to represent the diverse communities that we are a part of and welcome applicants from across all sectors of the community. We want everyone to have the opportunity to perform at their best during our recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments - whether for a disability, neurodiversity, or health condition - please let us know what you need and how we can support you. We’ll work with you to make any necessary changes. All of our jobs can be considered on a part time, flexible or job share basis. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role.
At Canal & River Trust, we are committed to fair, transparent, and ethical recruitment practices. As part of our hiring process, we may use AI to analyse applications and support us work more efficiently. However, all hiring decisions – without exception – are made by our hiring managers.
Craft Operative in Coventry employer: Canal & River Trust
Contact Detail:
Canal & River Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Craft Operative in Coventry
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research the Canal & River Trust and understand their mission. When you show genuine interest in their work, it’ll shine through in your conversations.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to carpentry and construction. Think about how your skills can directly benefit the waterways and be ready to share examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll have access to all the latest job openings and updates directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace Craft Operative in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how much you care about our waterways and the impact you can make as a Craft Operative.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do at Canal & River Trust!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Craft Operative role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Canal & River Trust
✨Know Your Craft
Make sure you brush up on your carpentry skills and knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with tools, machinery, and any relevant projects you've worked on. This role is all about practical skills, so showcasing your hands-on experience will definitely impress.
✨Understand the Trust's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Canal & River Trust's mission and values. They care deeply about preserving waterways and enhancing community wellbeing. Showing that you share their passion for the outdoors and heritage will help you stand out as a candidate who truly fits in.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about interpreting technical drawings and applying safety standards. Brush up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations, as well as any certifications you hold. Being able to confidently discuss these topics will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with others, including volunteers. Be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences and how you foster a positive environment. Highlighting your ability to guide and support others will show that you're not just a skilled operative, but also a great team player.