GPS Engineer - Earthworks in Cardiff

GPS Engineer - Earthworks in Cardiff

Cardiff Full-Time 35000 - 45000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our Earthworks team as a GPS Engineer, delivering precision on exciting projects.
  • Company: Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd, a family-run business with strong values since 1982.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, company van, gym discounts, and mental health support.
  • Other info: Work outdoors across South West England & South Wales with a supportive team.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in construction while enjoying career growth opportunities.
  • Qualifications: Experience with GPS systems and a civil engineering qualification required.

The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.

South West England & South Wales

About Us

Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd is a well-established, family-run business operating since 1982. What started as a small plant hire company has grown into a leading multi-division group specialising in Construction, Earthworks, Waste, Demolition, Transport and Plant Hire. We operate across the South West and South Wales, and our strong family values remain at the heart of everything we do.

The Role – GPS Engineer

We are looking for an experienced GPS Engineer to join our growing Earthworks team. As a GPS Engineer, you will play a key role in delivering accurate setting out and site control across a range of earthworks and civil engineering projects. This is a hands‑on site‑based role, ideal for an Engineer with strong GPS experience and a passion for precision.

Key Responsibilities

  • Carry out setting out using GPS equipment (Trimble preferred) and total stations
  • Work as a site‑based Engineer supporting earthworks and civil engineering projects
  • Interpret drawings, models, and technical specifications
  • Accurately set out levels, lines, and site controls using GPS systems
  • Ensure all works are delivered in line with design and project requirements
  • Conduct site surveys and maintain accurate records and as‑builts
  • Check and verify subcontractor work for accuracy
  • Raise and resolve technical queries as required
  • Liaise with site managers, engineers, and subcontractors
  • Maintain high standards of health, safety, and quality on site

Requirements

Essential

  • Experience working as a GPS Engineer, Site Engineer, or Setting Out Engineer
  • Strong experience using GPS equipment (Trimble highly desirable)
  • Civil Engineering qualification (HNC/HND/Degree or equivalent)
  • Strong understanding of earthworks and construction methods
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
  • CSCS Card (or equivalent)
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

Desirable

  • Experience with Trimble GPS systems and machine control
  • AutoCAD/Civil 3D or similar software
  • Drone licence (training available)
  • Experience in earthworks or bulk excavation projects

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary (DOE)
  • Company van
  • PPE provided
  • Life assurance scheme
  • Annual salary review
  • Free on‑site parking
  • Corporate gym membership discount
  • Employee discounts (including 50% off skip hire)
  • Career progression opportunities within a growing business
  • 24/7 mental health support

Working Conditions

  • Site-based role across the South West & South Wales
  • Outdoor work in varying conditions
  • Travel between sites as required

GPS Engineer - Earthworks in Cardiff employer: Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd

At Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business that values strong relationships and employee well-being. As a GPS Engineer in our Earthworks team, you will benefit from competitive salaries, career progression opportunities, and a supportive work culture that prioritises mental health and work-life balance. Join us in the beautiful South West England & South Wales, where your expertise will contribute to meaningful projects while enjoying perks like corporate gym discounts and employee benefits.

Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd

Contact Details:

Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land GPS Engineer - Earthworks in Cardiff

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 Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd, 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 GPS Engineer - Earthworks at Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd.

We think you need these skills to ace GPS Engineer - Earthworks in Cardiff

GPS Equipment Proficiency
Trimble GPS Systems Experience
Setting Out Skills
Civil Engineering Qualification
Understanding of Earthworks and Construction Methods
Ability to Read and Interpret Engineering Drawings
Site Surveying

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 Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd

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!