Highways Maintenance Operative

Colas are looking for 2 x Highways Maintenance Operative (Structures) to join our team based at Lydiate Ash Depot, B61 0QN in the West Midlands. In this role, you will work as part of a dedicated highways maintenance team, carrying out reactive, routine and programmed maintenance activities across the Strategic Road Network. You will support the safe and efficient maintenance of highway structures and infrastructure, ensuring all work is completed to the highest safety and quality standards. The role also includes participation in winter maintenance operations and emergency response activities when required.

Main Responsibilities:

• Carrying out highways structures maintenance activities safely and efficiently
• Responding to inspections, complaints and emergency situations
• Undertaking grass cutting, landscape maintenance and bridge drainage cleaning
• Supporting reactive, routine and programmed maintenance activities
• Working closely with colleagues to ensure safe systems of work and risk assessments are followed at all times
• Participating in Incident Management and Winter Service operations
• Operating company plant, equipment and vehicles safely and in accordance with company procedures
• Conducting vehicle safety checks before use
• Completing administrative duties, including timesheets and recording labour, plant and material usage
• Maintaining a professional approach that positively reflects the company
• Working both day and night shifts as required
• Participating in out‑of‑hours standby rotas for winter maintenance and emergency response
• Ensuring all activities are undertaken with due regard for the environment, to prevent pollution, comply with legal and corporate requirements and minimise environmental impact.

Ideal Candidate:

• Full UK Driving Licence (essential)
• Class C HGV Licence with CPC (preferred)
• Experience in highways maintenance or a similar environment (preferred)
• Relevant highways qualifications such as VRS, Traffic Management, Gully Emptying or Soft Estate Maintenance (desirable)
• A proactive, can‑do attitude with the ability to work using your own initiative
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in high‑pressure environments
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Flexibility to work days, nights and participate in emergency response and winter service rotas

Package Description:

Here at Colas, we offer a great total compensation package, including:

• Our Colas Pension Scheme with combined contributions of up to 10%
• Life Assurance Scheme of 4x basic salary
• Holiday Purchase & Selling Scheme
• Opportunities to study towards fully funded professional qualifications
• Ongoing personal and professional development
• Discounts on car leasing, holidays, cinema tickets, restaurants and much more through our employee benefits portal

Colas Ltd is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that mirrors the communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you want a workplace where your voice is valued and your potential is developed, Colas is the right choice.