At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team delivering exciting construction and maintenance projects across the Scottish Borders.
- Company: Scottish Borders Council's external trading organisation, focused on civil engineering and building.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, permanent contract, and opportunities for training and career progression.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to supporting all individuals, including veterans and those with disabilities.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience in construction while making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Good standard of education, relevant machinery qualifications, and a driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within SBc Contracts, Scottish Borders Council's external trading organisation, which delivers a wide range of civil engineering and building projects for both internal council services and external clients.
We are seeking an Operative to support the delivery of construction and maintenance activities across a variety of projects. Working as part of a team, you will undertake general labouring and operative duties associated with civil engineering and building works, including groundworks, roadworks, drainage, flood prevention schemes, bridge maintenance, new build developments and refurbishment projects.
You will assist in the safe and efficient delivery of works on site by following instructions from Chargehands and Site Supervisors, adhering to health and safety procedures, and ensuring work areas remain safe, clean and organised. The role requires the use of hand and power tools, operation of plant and equipment where appropriately trained, and the completion of tasks to a high standard of workmanship.
You will be expected to:
- Carry out a range of manual construction and maintenance activities.
- Work as part of a team and have the initiative to work independently.
- Follow site-specific risk assessments, safe systems of work and company procedures.
- Maintain good housekeeping standards on site.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, contractors and clients.
- Support the delivery of projects within agreed timescales.
- Assist with traffic management, drainage works, concreting, excavation and other construction related duties as required.
- Ensure tools, equipment and vehicles are used responsibly and maintained appropriately.
This is a varied and hands-on role suited to an individual who is reliable, flexible and committed to delivering quality services. Work may be undertaken across multiple locations throughout the Scottish Borders and may occasionally require working outwith normal hours to meet operational demands.
SBC Contracts are committed to investing in our workforce and offer excellent opportunities for training, development and career progression for motivated individuals looking to build a long-term career within the construction industry.
Essential
- A good standard of education (Numeracy and literacy)
- Certified relevant machinery and plant use qualification/s (i.e. CPCS/NPORS Lantra certificates, NPTC, SVQ, PA)
- Construction Industry Card (i.e CSCS)
- A current driving licence and use of a vehicle is an essential requirement of this post.
If you have a disability which precludes you from holding a drivers licence, Scottish Borders Council will take into account its responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to allow for your disability. Should it be possible to make such an adjustment in order that you can undertake the travel responsibilities of the post, this will be taken into account in consideration for this role.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. In particular from candidates who assess themselves as having a disability, under the Disability Confident Employer scheme this guarantees an interview to those individuals who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to providing support for Armed Forces Veterans. Showing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council guarantees an interview to veterans who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Operative - Reiver Complex - SBO10258 employer: Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Eyemouth where you can make a meaningful impact on your community. With a commitment to employee growth and diversity, the council provides opportunities for professional development and values the contributions of all staff members. Join a dedicated team that prioritises compassion and professionalism while delivering essential services during significant life moments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative - Reiver Complex - SBO10258
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Scottish Borders Council, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Operative - Reiver Complex - SBO10258 at Scottish Borders Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative - Reiver Complex - SBO10258
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Borders Council
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
