At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to maintain and construct public lighting, CCTV, and EV chargers.
- Company: Midlothian Council, committed to transforming local services.
- Benefits: Earn over £40k with overtime, plus a generous pension and council perks.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and training provided for skill development.
- Why this job: Work outdoors, gain hands-on experience, and develop your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: HGV driving license and relevant qualifications or experience required.
The predicted salary is between 33170 - 33170 £ per year.
Midlothian Council invite applications for the post of Public Lighting Operative (PLO) to work alongside Electricians carrying out a range of tasks associated with the maintenance and construction of public lighting installations, CCTV, traffic signals and EV chargers. This will involve extensive periods working outdoors and at height with the use of both hand tools and small plant such as cut off saws and breakers.
Although working alongside an electrician, candidates should have a general understanding of electricity and electrical safety. They should have knowledge and training of correct manual handling procedures and traffic management as per the Chapter 8 Traffic Signals Manual.
Tasks undertaken include:
- The installation of lighting columns, cable and ducting and other street furniture.
- The installation/replacement of lanterns, lamps, brackets, system controllers and control gear.
- The energising/switching of lamps.
- The inspection and cleaning of street furniture and the maintenance of lighting equipment (e.g. by replacing lamps, lanterns, visors, system controllers and control gear by socket connection, renewing lamp fuses, resetting circuit breakers and time-clocks, dressing and painting lighting furniture, minor repairs to lighting equipment).
- Providing general support and assistance to other lighting operatives, electricians and staff.
Competent at the use of abrasive saws and hydraulic breaker packs, battery powered tools such as combi drills, impact drivers and SDS drills. Must have good communication skills to be able to successfully interact with not only colleagues but the public.
Auto enrolment into our generous Local Government pension scheme and access to vast Council benefits such as cycle to work scheme, car salary sacrifice and many more. Candidates have potential to earn in excess of £40k through the opportunity of overtime and voluntary winter emergency.
Training will be provided for any skills gaps which falls in line with Midlothian Councils desire to develop its employees into the best they can be, making Midlothian Council a great place to grow.
Jobholders must hold a current HGV driving license (Category C).
Essential Qualification requirements are:
- Relevant SCQF level 7 qualification or demonstrable considerable experience in a similar role.
Desirable Qualification requirements are:
- Plant Operators Certificate
- Health and Safety Certificates (IOSH working safely or equivalent)
- IPAF operator qualification
- HNC Electrical
Previous experience of working with electrical apparatus and an understanding of electrical safety are essential elements of this role. The jobholder will be required to understand processes and interpret technical plans and electric drawings and diagrams. They will also be required to take site measures to allow the accurate ordering of materials and equipment.
CLOSING DATE - Wednesday 8th July 2026
INTERVIEW DATE - Week Beginning 20th July 2026
Location: Fushiebridge
Contract Status: Permanent
Hours of Work: 39 hours per week
Working Pattern: Monday to Thursday (07:30 - 16:00), Friday (07:30 - 15:00)
Weeks per year: 52
Please note that it is Midlothian Councils policy that successful applicants will be appointed to the first point on the salary scale. Based on you working 39 hours over 52 weeks per year the minimum actual salary for this position is £33,170.82 per annum.
If you have difficulty applying for this post or accessing attached documents, or if you have a disability and reasonable adjustment is required, please email recruitment@midlothian.gov.uk to speak to a member of the Recruitment Team stating the post reference number.
Midlothian Council is currently undergoing a period of transformation, changing and improving the way it delivers services in Midlothian. As a consequence, there are a number of existing employees for whom we are committed to seeking suitable alternative employment within the Council in accordance with our legal obligations. Candidates are advised that, for some vacancies, internal candidates in this situation will be interviewed before the wider selection pool and a slightly longer delay may be experienced before application outcomes can be advised to you. Thank you for your patience in this matter.
If you are a trainee of a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability or you are a care experienced young person who has previously been a looked after child you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria for the post.
Public Lighting Operative - MID07591 in Gorebridge employer: Midlothian Council
Midlothian Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With access to generous benefits such as a Local Government pension scheme, cycle to work initiatives, and opportunities for overtime, employees can thrive both personally and professionally in a role that contributes significantly to the community. The Council's commitment to training ensures that all staff, including Public Lighting Operatives, have the chance to enhance their skills and grow within the organisation, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Lighting Operative - MID07591 in Gorebridge
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
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Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
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We think you need these skills to ace Public Lighting Operative - MID07591 in Gorebridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Midlothian Council's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Midlothian Council. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Midlothian Council
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Midlothian Council.
