At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and improve beautiful waterways while providing excellent customer service.
- Company: Join the Canal & River Trust, dedicated to keeping our canals alive.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £25,850, competitive pension, and increasing holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Full training provided; perfect for those who love nature and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local communities while enjoying outdoor work.
- Qualifications: Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 25850 - 25850 £ per year.
Join the Canal & River Trust as a Waterway Operative and play a vital role in maintaining and improving our beautiful waterways across the West Midlands regions waterway network primarily focused on the Llangollen, Montgomery and Shropshire Union 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 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 Birch Road, Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 9AA with travel across the West Midlands region, with occasional support in other areas.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out outdoor maintenance and repair of canal infrastructure.
- Operate locks, bridges, and other waterway assets safely and efficiently.
- Improve towpaths and waterside areas, including repairs and litter removal.
- Deliver excellent customer service to visitors and boaters.
- Work collaboratively with volunteers to achieve high-quality results.
- Plan and prepare for tasks, ensuring correct tools and materials are available.
- Uphold 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.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills – you’ll be the face of the Trust on our waterways.
- Basic literacy and numeracy.
- Experience in manual, construction, or outdoor environments is advantageous.
- Ability to work to schedules and plans effectively.
- Basic IT skills – comfortable using mobile devices and apps.
- Full and current manual 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 £25,850 with opportunities for progression. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits.
Waterway Operative in Ellesmere employer: Canal & River Trust
At Canal & River Trust, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a fulfilling role as a Waterway Operative in the picturesque West Midlands. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and community engagement, while our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training and progression opportunities. With competitive salaries, generous benefits, and the chance to make a tangible impact on local waterways, joining our team means embarking on a rewarding career dedicated to preserving nature and enhancing visitor experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Waterway Operative in Ellesmere
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the waterways! Familiarise yourself with the Llangollen, Montgomery, and Shropshire Union Canals. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! Whether it's maintenance or customer service, be ready to share examples of how you've tackled similar tasks in the past. We love practical experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees! Reach out on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows you're proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Waterway Operative in Ellesmere
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors:When writing your application, let us know how much you love working outdoors and being hands-on. Share any experiences you've had with nature or outdoor maintenance – it’ll show us you're a great fit for the Waterway Operative role!
Highlight Your Customer Service Skills:As you'll be the face of the Trust on our waterways, it's important to demonstrate your excellent communication and customer service skills. Give examples of how you've helped others in previous roles or situations – we want to see that you can connect with visitors and boaters!
Be Detail-Oriented:We value attention to detail, so make sure your application is clear and well-structured. Double-check for any typos or errors, and ensure you’ve included all relevant information about your skills and experiences that match the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the info you need to complete your application. Don’t wait too long – we might close the vacancy once we have enough suitable candidates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canal & River Trust
✨Know Your Waterways
Familiarise yourself with the specific canals and waterways you'll be working on, like the Llangollen and Montgomery. Understanding their history and current projects will show your passion for the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Off Your Practical Skills
Since this is a hands-on job, be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have in manual or outdoor work. Bring examples of past projects or tasks where you've demonstrated your ability to maintain and repair infrastructure.
✨Customer Service is Key
As you'll be the face of the Trust, highlight your communication skills and any previous customer service experience. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond to help someone, especially in outdoor or community settings.
✨Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Given the nature of the role, you might be asked how you'd handle emergencies or unexpected situations. Prepare some scenarios where you've had to think on your feet or adapt quickly, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
