At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and maintain construction machinery while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join Wordsworth Excavations, a leading name in the earthworks industry.
- Benefits: Earn £17,667 in your first year, with lodging and bonuses for punctuality.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with potential for further qualifications.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with practical training and opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a strong work ethic and physical fitness.
Overview
Closes tomorrow (Friday 26 September 2025 at 11:59pm)
At Wordsworth Excavations, our people are central to all we do. We take pride in high staff retention, fostering a workplace where talent thrives and careers grow. Our apprenticeships span all areas of the business, offering practical experience and tailored training—an ideal path to develop skills and build a rewarding future in earthworks.
Wage and benefits
Wage: £17,667 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age. National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices. All lodging is organised and paid for. Lodging allowance is £25 per night taxable and £25 per night non-taxable. A daily bonus of £13 is awarded for punctuality, correct PPE usage, completing plant checks, and maintaining appropriate behaviour.
Training course: Construction Plant Operative (level 2).
Hours and duration
Hours: Monday to Friday site hours usually from 7am to 6pm. On Fridays, finish time depends on location and may be earlier. Most jobs require staying away from home, depending on where in the UK the work is. Note: 45 hours a week. Duration: 1 year 6 months.
Work location
UNIT 1
WORDSOWRTH BUSINESS PARK
WHALey ROAD
BARNSLEY
S75 1FJ
What you’ll do at work
Plant Operatives check, prepare, maintain & operate several machines used on construction sites, such as:
- 360 excavators to dig or shape the ground to form embankments or trenches for underground pipes
- Dumper to transport earth across a site and tip it where required
- Ride-on-Roller to compact materials such as earth and tarmac for roads, paths etc.
- Forklift to lift and transport construction materials
They provide signals to other operators & marshal vehicles on site and assist with any labouring required on site.
Where you’ll work
WORDSWORTH EXCAVATIONS - UNIT 1, WORDSWORTH BUSINESS PARK, WHALEY ROAD, BARNSLEY, S75 1FJ
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from work for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
- Extract information from a variety of sources for basic servicing, checks, operational and maintenance requirements.
- Select and use tools, lubricants and equipment required for operator-level maintenance, checks, servicing and configuration requirements.
- Identify and apply information from a range of sources so that the machine is set for the work and for the work to be carried out.
- Identify and source materials, equipment and consumables for operational requirements.
- Prepare and set the machine for travelling purposes.
- Travel the machine across a range of ground, surfaces and in a range of operational environments and conditions inc. inclines, and on and from a transporter.
- Plan, configure and set the machine to carry out the required work activity.
- Operate the machine in accordance with given instructions for excavating, compacting, loading, lifting, moving, discharging and placing activities relevant to the machine being used.
- Identify, use and maintain effective communication with co-workers, supporting staff and supervisors to carry out the work safely and efficiently.
- Carry out checks (through self and with others) that the work being carried out meets the job requirements and timescales.
- Position, configure and shut down the machine when work activities cease and isolate and secure the machine and relevant equipment and structures to prevent unauthorised use or access.
- Marshall the movements of a range of plant and delivery vehicles for positioning and safe movement requirements.
- Assist in the setting up, configuring and positioning of plant to carry out specific work functions.
- Assist in preparing and securing a transporter and the items of plant during the loading and unloading activity for transportation purposes.
- Work in accordance with health, safety, welfare and environmental requirements, evaluate the working area and activity according to static and dynamic risk assessments and method statements, and report on unsafe situations following organisational procedures.
You will achieve the Level 2 Construction Plant Operative Apprenticeship Standard by attending CP Assessments Training Centre’s in Doncaster to undertake 7 block-release training sessions (5 days), every 8-12 weeks.
The successful candidate will work towards their Functional Skills in both Maths and English if they have not achieved this prior or have an equivalent.
Apprentices will also get an Apprentice CSCS card which can be upgraded on completion of the apprenticeship.
Requirements
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills
- Physical fitness
- Ability to follow instructions
Other requirements
This role will involve working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. You will need to be strong and physically fit to carry out the duties of this role. Due to the nationwide nature of the work, regular travel and staying away from home will be required.
About this employer
Wordsworth Excavations is a highly professional contractor with extensive experience in the earthworks industry. Since our establishment in 2003, we have specialised in providing top quality services in bulk earthworks, ground stabilisation, and demolition projects throughout the country. Our commitment to delivering excellence, prioritising health and safety, and ensuring compliance has earned us a strong reputation among major construction firms.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the successful candidate to start their career with a highly reputable and well-established company.
Progression within the organisation with more responsibility is expected on successful completion of the apprenticeship.
In time, you may wish to undertake further qualifications such as Occupational Work Supervision, which can be studied at Level 3.
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
CONSTRUCTION AND PLANT ASSESSMENTS LTD
Tracey Rowley
tracey.rowley@cpassessments.co.uk
01709868181
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000342012.
Apply now
Closes tomorrow (Friday 26 September 2025 at 11:59pm)
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Apprentice Plant Operator in Barnsley employer: Constructionandplantassessments
At Wordsworth Excavations, we prioritise our employees' growth and well-being, offering a supportive work culture that values high staff retention and career development. Our apprentices benefit from tailored training, practical experience, and competitive wages, including lodging allowances and bonuses for punctuality, making this an ideal environment for those looking to build a rewarding future in the earthworks industry.
Contact Details:
Constructionandplantassessments Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Plant Operator in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Wordsworth Excavations and understand their values and projects. This will help you tailor your conversation during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the apprenticeship. Personal connections can make a big difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to plant operations and safety. Role-play with a friend or family member to build your confidence and get comfortable with your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the opportunity. Don’t miss out—get your application in before the deadline!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Plant Operator in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and the industry.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Apprentice Plant Operator role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match what we’re looking for, like teamwork or following instructions.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!:Before hitting send, give your application a good once-over. Typos and errors can make a bad impression, so take the time to ensure everything is clear and professional.
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 this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Constructionandplantassessments
✨Know Your Machines
Familiarise yourself with the types of machinery you'll be operating, like 360 excavators and dumper trucks. Being able to discuss their functions and maintenance will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Show Off Your Physical Fitness
Since this job requires physical strength and stamina, be prepared to talk about any relevant experiences that demonstrate your fitness. Whether it's sports, manual labour, or outdoor activities, highlight how these experiences have prepared you for the demands of the role.
✨Understand Safety Protocols
Safety is paramount in construction. Brush up on health and safety regulations related to plant operation. Be ready to discuss how you would handle unsafe situations and ensure compliance on site.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship and the company culture at Wordsworth Excavations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
