At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the development of concrete mixes for a major energy project and conduct material testing.
- Company: Join the Civil Works Alliance, shaping the UK's energy future with Sizewell C.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Diverse workplace culture that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy while working in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in UKAS accredited labs and knowledge of construction materials required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Help shape the UK’s energy future with the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), supporting Sizewell C. As part of the CWA, you will support the building of Sizewell C, a 3.2-gigawatt power station generating low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes.
This role will be within the Marine and Tunnels Section.
What will you do?
- Develop nuclear qualified concrete mix(es) for the precast tunnel lining and precast heads.
- Facilitate the development of these mixes and provide ongoing support throughout the construction/production phase of the project.
- Conduct trial works and reporting for materials required for the operation and launch of tunnel boring machines.
- Establish and operate laboratory facilities for marine and tunnels works in accordance with contract specifications.
- Undertake inspection and testing on site and in the laboratory as required by the contract.
- Maintain high standards of work and compliance with UKAS accreditation requirements.
- Comply with the site quality system for materials testing laboratory, including materials reporting.
- Deliver results by deadlines as required by the contract and project teams.
- Maintain equipment calibrations and notify the lab manager of any defects requiring attention.
- Identify, record and report Best Practice to Project and offsite and pass to Laboratory Manager.
- Produce summary compliance reports of material compliance as required by the contract.
- Train and develop junior staff to ensure succession plan is in place.
- Manage expectations of materials team regarding test result reporting and testing timescales.
- Develop testing programmes for trials and execute ongoing quality testing requirements as per agreed specifications.
What are we looking for?
Essential:
- Previous experience of working within a UKAS accredited laboratory and with construction materials.
- Minimum NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable:
- SMSTS or SSSTS qualified.
- Member of a professional institute.
- Experience in training others.
- Experience in reporting KPIs and reports to a timescale.
- Experience managing a defined budget.
- Experience of preparing and reviewing risk assessments and method statements.
Essential:
- Good interpersonal/communication skills.
- Ability to collect, manage and present data in a clear manner.
Desirable:
- Knowledge of construction materials (Concrete, Grout).
- Desire for continuous improvement and development.
- Quick learner.
- Proficient skills in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
- Well organised.
What we will offer you?
The CWA is a single delivery organisation made up of the client (Sizewell C) and three parent companies - Balfour Beatty, Bouygues and Laing O'Rourke - which offer industry leading packages including market leading salaries, generous annual leave entitlements, pension scheme and other flexible benefits.
The CWA celebrates the creativity and innovation that comes from a diverse workforce, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds — especially those from under-represented communities. Our project is built on five core values: Humility, Positivity, Respect, Solidarity, and Clarity. By joining us, you’ll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work, speak up, and share your ideas. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
Materials Technician employer: Civil Works Alliance
Joining the Civil Works Alliance as a Materials Technician offers you the chance to contribute to the groundbreaking Sizewell C project, which is pivotal for the UK's low-carbon energy future. With a strong emphasis on employee development, a supportive work culture rooted in respect and collaboration, and competitive benefits including generous leave and pension schemes, this role not only promises meaningful work but also fosters personal and professional growth in a dynamic environment. Embrace the opportunity to be part of a diverse team that values innovation and creativity while making a lasting impact on the energy landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Technician
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Civil Works Alliance, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Materials Technician at Civil Works Alliance.
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Civil Works Alliance
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
