Assistant Drainage Operative
Build safer, smarter wastewater networks as an Assistant Drainage Operative Purpose and scope of the role Tetra Tech is seeking Assistant Drainage Operatives to join our wastewater network team in Irlam. Working as part of a three-person site survey crew, you will collect flow and asset data from above- and below-ground wastewater infrastructure, supporting projects for regional water companies. Your daily work will include moving inspection chamber covers, monitoring crew safety, working on highways and entering confined spaces where required. You will help maintain safe systems of work, protect members of the public and deliver accurate, reliable survey data. No previous water industry experience is required, as full training will be provided. Your impact in this position In the short term, you will develop practical surveying, operational and health and safety skills while contributing to essential water infrastructure services. In the medium term, you can broaden your experience across wastewater networks, drainage, leakage and asset inspection. With ongoing training and development, this role can support progression within Tetra Tech’s Asset, Surveying and Inspection team. Your work will contribute to reducing leakage, preventing flooding and pollution, and improving resilience for local communities. Core Capabilities • Safety-focused approach – Demonstrate excellent health and safety awareness when working in confined spaces, on highways, at height and around heavy equipment. • Teamwork and communication – Follow instructions from the crew leader, communicate clearly and remain alert to the safety and wellbeing of colleagues working underground. • Physical capability – Be able to lift, carry and handle heavy items, including inspection chamber covers, and undertake outdoor operational duties. • Flexibility and reliability – Work flexibly, including occasional evenings, weekends, night shifts, overtime and travel away from home when contracts require. • Practical and technical aptitude – Bring basic written, verbal, numerical and IT skills, with a willingness to learn new processes, equipment and water industry requirements. Skills, qualifications and experience A full UK driving licence is required. You should enjoy outdoor work in all weather conditions and be comfortable working as part of a team. No previous water industry experience is necessary. A CSCS card is desirable. The role requires successful completion of mandatory drugs and alcohol testing and a DBS check. Work patterns and locations This is a permanent, 40-hour-per-week role, generally Monday to Friday, based at Tetra Tech’s Irlam office and available for an immediate start. Occasional night work, weekend working and travel away from home may be required. The role is primarily site-based and is not suitable for regular hybrid or remote working.
Why join Tetra Tech?
Tetra Tech is a leading provider of consulting and engineering services working across the full project lifecycle worldwide. We have a wide range of expertise across our teams, providing a global support network with a personalised approach to client relationships to better understand where we can add value. We provide a collaborative environment that supports individual performance, innovation, and creativity.
We support public and private sector clients on local, national, and international projects to deliver sustainable and resilient solutions. Our operations in the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands include more than 6,000 employees who are Leading with Science® to solve our clients’ most complex problems.
In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day-to-day role.#AS&I #LI-JP1
Assistant Drainage Operative in Manchester employer: Tetra Tech
Tetra Tech is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for hydrogeologists looking to make a meaningful impact in the groundwater and geothermal sectors. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will have opportunities to develop your project management and leadership skills while working on diverse projects across Great Britain and Ireland. The company promotes a collaborative culture that values innovation and creativity, ensuring that every team member can contribute to sustainable solutions in a flexible and hybrid working setting.
