Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in delivering essential highway services and managing construction projects.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to community safety and infrastructure improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health support, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management and knowledge of health and safety regulations.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on employee well-being and career development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is a really exciting time to join the Highway Service at a time of transformation and change to lead an operational construction and delivery team, with a turnover between £10m and £16m, on a wide range of functions from gully emptying and pothole repairs through to other reactive repairs and larger schemes involving highway safety, structures, street lighting, road improvements and public realm.
You will also manage the Service's emergency and severe weather response including gritting and snow clearance that is considered to be one of our much valued Highway Service by the Kirklees Community and local Ward Councillors.
As a senior manager in the service, you will be responsible for the operational management of the Highways Operations team comprising about 70 site skilled employees and 30 engineers and other officers, across two depots. You will support and input into the wider transformation change within the service to make data led and now technological advancement can enhance the service we provide.
You will ensure your teams work efficiently and effectively, and that the services provided are of a high quality standard, demonstrate value for money, and deliver a positive effect on the lives of people within Kirklees.
Health and safety, and compliance are key in your role. You will have an in depth knowledge and demonstratable experience of safe working practices and regulations including the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, COSHH, LOLER, vibration at work and manual handling regulations. You will be familiar with the investigation and reporting of construction and operational based incidents and accidents.
You must have a culture of well being support for employees including welfare, health surveillance, rest, breaks and duty time eg. The GB Domestic Driver Rules and The Working Time Regulations.
You will be expected to work in a constructive way with recognised trade unions at consultative meetings as part of the Council's Industrial Relationships Framework and collective bargaining.
You will develop the potential of your staff and promote a good working environment which maximises and values individual contribution in achieving service objectives.
You will provide technical and specialist support and advice to service users, Unit Managers, Council Cabinet, Scrutiny, and Local Public Service Boards.
You will be involved in the development of performance management, continuous improvement, and quality systems to ensure the delivery of high-quality, customer-focused, and cost-effective services which contribute to the Council's overall objectives. You will be expected to deploy resources and manage budgets effectively.
To improve service delivery, you will be expected to work in partnership with other Council services, external organisations, and agencies.
You will be required to support senior management of the Highways Service and ensure efficient and effective work. The Highways Service is an essential part of the Council's front-line services and contributes to the Council's overall objectives.
You will be expected to develop and implement policies and strategies which contribute to the delivery of the Council's objectives. You will be expected to work with other Council services, external organisations, and agencies to ensure the effective delivery of the work of the Highways Service with the public.
For an informal discussion, please contact Rashid Mahmood on 01484 221000.
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Location: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
This role expires 18/03/2026.
Operational Manager – Highways Construction (Full Time) in Huddersfield employer: Environmentjournal
Contact Detail:
Environmentjournal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Manager – Highways Construction (Full Time) in Huddersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the highways construction field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for improving highway services and how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to operational management and safety regulations. Being well-prepared will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Manager – Highways Construction (Full Time) in Huddersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operational Manager role. Highlight your experience in highways construction, team management, and any relevant health and safety regulations you've worked with. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our transformation journey. Be sure to mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior manager, we need to see your leadership style. Share examples of how you've developed teams, managed budgets, and improved service delivery in previous roles. This will help us understand how you can lead our operational construction team effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about StudySmarter and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Environmentjournal
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of highways construction and operational management. Familiarise yourself with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, COSHH, and other relevant safety regulations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operational Manager, you'll be leading a large team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your experience in promoting a positive working environment and developing staff potential.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Get to grips with the Council's objectives and how the Highways Service fits into them. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the transformation and improvement of services, and how data-led decisions can enhance operations. This shows you're not just focused on the day-to-day but also on long-term goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling emergencies, such as severe weather responses or incidents on site. Think through potential scenarios and how you would manage them, ensuring health and safety compliance. This will demonstrate your readiness for the challenges of the role.