At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to excavate and install telecoms infrastructure safely.
- Company: Connect Fibre, a fast-growing business revolutionising broadband services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension contributions, and referral bonuses.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting industry with opportunities for growth and development.
- Qualifications: Experience in excavation, valid safety certifications, and a full UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with excellent career prospects.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Derbyshire
Job Type: Fixed Term Contract (12 months)
Salary: TBC
Company Overview
Connect Fibre is a rapidly expanding and exciting new business offering the very latest full fibre to homes and businesses across the nation. With broadband speeds of up to 2000Mbps, new Wi‑Fi 7 technology, exceptional customer service, and costing no more than current internet packages, customer growth is expected to be exponential.
The Role
The Civils Operative will be working as part of a 2‑person gang within a wider team of 10 Civils Digging and Reinstatement gangs. You will be responsible for excavations to support the delivery, installation and repair of telecoms infrastructure. This role is focused on safe digging practices, including trenching, duct installation, chamber builds and blockage clearance with Mechanical Diggers and Hand Digging activities. All work must be performed to the highest standard and to comply with NRSWA, HAUC, HSG47 and our internal SOPs. Must be based within a 60‑minute commute to Derbyshire sites as accommodation will not be provided. Van and equipment will be supplied for operational duties.
Key Responsibilities
- Trenching and laying new ducting to specified depths and widths
- Test, rodding and roping BToR
- Create A55 creation in line with internal SOPs
- Carry out TM surveys when required
- Clearing blockages within the underground network to BToR specifications
- Installing chambers, toby boxes and associated core drilling works
- General excavational digs
- Operate various types of machinery and hand tools
- Maintain spoilBike storage, barriers and site organisation
- Carry out all work in accordance with approved designs, specifications and local authority requirements
- Working safely and in line with industry and site regulations and internal SOPs
- Ensuring permit compliance (NRWSA, HAUC)
- Ensure use of in‑date SafeDig documentation (utility searches, CADs, CAT & Genny checks, gas detector usage)
- Co‑ordinate with Civils supervisors and reinstatement gangs to arrange back‑fill reinstatements within permit timelines
- Support weekend work, out‑of‑hours tasks and recovery activities when required
Health, Safety & Quality
- Ensure strict H&S compliance across all civils operations
- Responsible for PPE worn to be compliant
- Conduct daily equipment checks before use
- Ensure all work complies with CDM regulations, NRSWA, HAUC and client SOPs
- Ensure RAMS are suitable, approved and adhered to
- Report hazards, incidents and near misses immediately to supervisor & Civils Manager
- Record and provide SPO/Asbuilts documentation
Required Experience & Skills
Essential- Strong proven experience in excavation/digging within civils and telecoms
- Smart Awards card with mandatory accreditations uploaded and in date:
- K008 – Hand rodding in the underground network
- NRSWA – Full operative modules SA002 + SA005 + SA006 – Underground safety / safe working in civils
- Q013 – Box building (Modular)
- Q019 – Core drilling
- Q020 – Duct blockages
- Q021 – Duct laying
- NPORS tickets including Digger / Mini‑Digger
- Streetworks legislation (NRSWA, HAUC)
- Civils construction methods and PIA
- Traffic management interfaces
- SA010 – Confined spaces – Medium risk
- Knowledge of BT Openreach specifications & documentation
- Knowledge of Physical Infrastructure Access (PIA)
- First aid or IOSH qualifications
Reporting Line
Reports to: Civils Manager
Indirectly reports to: Civils supervisors and Programme Lead (Build Lead)
The Rewards
- £TBC
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Birthday off
- Company pension contribution
- £1,500 employee referral scheme
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies
- Generous business mileage reimbursement
- Continuous development and long‑term career prospects
Connect Fibre offers excellent team and business building opportunities. Candidates must be a UK resident with citizenship or indefinite leave to remain and are required to undertake a basic DBS check.
Civils Digging Operative employer: Connect Fibre
Contact Detail:
Connect Fibre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Civils Digging Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Connect Fibre. Understand their mission, values, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions related to civils and telecoms. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. The more you prepare, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have any relevant certifications or experience with machinery, make sure to highlight these during your chat. It’s all about demonstrating that you’re the right fit for the Civils Digging Operative role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Civils Digging Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in civils and telecoms. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your digging and excavation expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re excited about joining Connect Fibre and how your background makes you the perfect fit for the Civils Digging Operative role. Keep it engaging and personal!
Show Off Your Certifications: Don’t forget to mention your NRSWA and other relevant certifications in your application. We love seeing candidates who are up-to-date with their qualifications, as it shows commitment to safety and professionalism.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect Fibre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of civils construction methods and streetworks legislation like NRSWA and HAUC. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the industry's standards.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous experience with excavation and digging, especially in telecoms. Have specific examples ready that highlight your skills with machinery, hand tools, and compliance with safety regulations. This will help demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Safety First
Since health and safety is a big part of this role, be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance with H&S regulations. Mention any relevant certifications you hold, like your Smart Awards card, and share experiences where you prioritised safety on site.
✨Be a Team Player
This job involves working closely with others, so be prepared to talk about your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations or when coordinating with supervisors for back-fill reinstatements.