At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to repair and maintain Northumberland's highways using innovative techniques.
- Company: Northumberland County Council, committed to safe and well-maintained roads.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Valid UK Driving Licence and previous experience in Highways and Construction required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Northumberland County Council's (NCC) vision is ‘Land of Great Opportunities', for current and future generations. We believe there is no better place to live and work. We are committed to delivering safe, well-maintained highways across the county. As part of our Highways team, we play a vital role in keeping Northumberland's road network in excellent condition for residents, businesses and visitors. Our operational teams use specialist equipment and innovative repair techniques to deliver efficient highway maintenance solutions countywide.
As a Skilled Highways Operative you will lead or be part of a team and will carry out highways repairs and/or maintenance tasks.
What you'll be doing:
- Road & Pavement Repairs: Excavate damaged surfaces, repair potholes, lay new asphalt/tarmac, and carry out flagging, kerbing, and block paving.
- Drainage & Earthworks: Install, clean, and repair drainage pipes, gully pots, manholes, channels, and associated ironwork (such as valve cases and covers).
- Concrete & Structural Work: Lay in-situ concrete, set up steel reinforcement (steel-fixing), and fit formwork or shoring equipment.
- Plant & Equipment Operation: Use a range of hand tools, powered plant, and heavy machinery (such as pedestrian rollers, breakers, or mechanical jetting plant).
- Street Infrastructure: Erect and repair safety fences, guardrails, bollards, street signs, and walling/fencing.
- Traffic Management: Set up and manage temporary traffic control measures to ensure safe work zones.
- Winter & Emergency Response: Participate in gritting, snow-clearing, and emergency flood/storm response (frequently on a rota or out-of-hours basis).
- Site Leadership & Compliance: Read and interpret technical drawings/blueprints, follow health and safety regulations, complete digital/paper work logs, and take a lead role on site in the absence of a supervisor.
What you'll bring:
- Valid UK Driving Licence
- Previous experience in Highways and Construction
- Level 2 or Equivalent Qualification
- The ability to understand complex detailed spoken and written instructions, as well as plans drawings schedules and calculate work requirements and keep accurate work records.
Why choose us?
We have some outstanding benefits and perks to offer you, including: 26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years of service (pro rata for part-time employees), Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme, Flexi scheme (if applicable) - up to 2 days flexible leave available per month (pro rata for part-time employees).
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. If you have a disability and would prefer to apply in a different format, please see the alternative methods below. This information will be treated as confidential and will only be used to check that you meet the essential requirements of the post.
Skilled Highways Operative (Alnwick) employer: North East Combined Authority
Northumberland County Council is an excellent employer for those seeking flexible and meaningful work opportunities within the community. As part of the Staff Bank, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that values diversity and offers training to enhance your skills, all while contributing to the maintenance of local housing. With a focus on employee growth and a commitment to equal opportunities, this role provides a unique chance to make a positive impact in the Blyth area.
Contact Details:
North East Combined Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Skilled Highways Operative (Alnwick)
✨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!
✨Join Trade Associations
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!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Skilled Highways Operative (Alnwick)
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 North East Combined Authority'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 North East Combined Authority. 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 North East Combined Authority
✨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 North East Combined Authority.
