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- Tasks: Lead daily operations at a highways depot and manage multiple workstreams.
- Company: Join a public-sector organisation dedicated to maintaining safe highways.
- Benefits: 12-month contract with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community safety and infrastructure management.
- Qualifications: Experience in highways operations and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with high-pressure decision-making and emergency response responsibilities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
CONFIDENTIAL CONTRACT ROLE – HIGHWAYS DEPOT MANAGER (12-month contract)
East Midlands & Surrounding Areas
Demonstrable experience running a live highways depot or operational base.
SMSTS (or equivalent safety qualification).
Direct involvement in winter service and highways emergency response.
Willingness to participate in an on-call / out-of-hours rota.
Eligibility to work in the UK.
A public-sector highways organisation is engaging an experienced Highways Depot Lead on a contract basis to take full operational responsibility for a key depot serving the East Midlands and nearby areas. This role sits at the sharp end of service delivery. You’ll be accountable for keeping crews productive, work moving, and the network safe — across routine maintenance, unplanned incidents, and severe weather events.
What You’ll Be Responsible For:
- Running daily depot operations and directing multiple highway workstreams.
- Controlling labour, plant, materials, and subcontract support.
- Ensuring teams are briefed, safe, and delivering to required standards.
- Leading emergency response activity and seasonal winter operations.
- Dealing with operational escalations, including stakeholder and public issues.
- Monitoring performance, productivity, and operational risk.
- Supporting cost control and efficient use of resources.
- Taking part in an operational on-call rota as required.
What We’re Looking For:
- A practical, delivery-focused leader with strong highways operations experience.
- Comfortable making decisions in live, high-pressure environments.
- Visible and proactive on safety, standards, and workforce management.
- Experienced managing supervisors, operatives, and supply partners.
- Clear communicator with a professional, calm approach to escalation.
Nice to Have:
- ICE or IHT membership (or actively working towards).
- Traffic Management or similar operational qualifications.
- Exposure to asset systems, digital tools, or quality frameworks.
Highways Depot Manager employer: engstaff-in
Contact Detail:
engstaff-in Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Highways Depot Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the highways sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your operational knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with managing depot operations and emergency responses. We want you to shine when it comes to showcasing your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow companies you’re interested in and engage with their posts. It’s a great way to get noticed and show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Highways Depot Manager role. We’re always looking for passionate individuals who can make a difference in our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Highways Depot Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience running a highways depot or operational base. We want to see how you've managed daily operations and dealt with challenges in high-pressure environments.
Safety First: Since safety is key in this role, don’t forget to mention your SMSTS or equivalent safety qualifications. We’re looking for someone who prioritises safety and can lead by example.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate a professional tone, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We want to get to know you!
Apply Through Our Website: Finally, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at engstaff-in
✨Know Your Depot Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the specific depot operations and challenges in the East Midlands. Research recent projects or incidents that have occurred in the area, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Highlight Your Safety Credentials
Since safety is paramount in this role, be prepared to discuss your SMSTS or equivalent qualifications. Share specific examples of how you've implemented safety measures in past roles, especially during high-pressure situations or emergency responses.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership, so think of examples where you’ve successfully managed teams or resolved conflicts. Be ready to explain your approach to keeping crews productive and motivated, especially during challenging times.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle operational escalations or severe weather events. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in these scenarios, as it will showcase your ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.