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- Tasks: Learn on the job while supporting exciting construction projects across the UK.
- Company: Join VolkerLaser, a leader in innovative engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual leave, private medical care, and more.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction with hands-on experience and training.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your motivation and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Travel costs covered, with opportunities for growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Start: July 2026 (college programme begins September/October 2026)
Contract: Full-time, 45 hours per week
VolkerLaser repairs, strengthens and waterproofs concrete and steel structures, offering a tailored package of specialist works to clients across the UK. Our structural solutions include bridge deck waterproofing, expansion joints, concrete repair and cathodic protection works, steel repair and strengthening work, carbon fibre and temporary works, jacking and bearing replacement. We also provide specialist lightweight decking and access solutions, as well as being specialists in long bridge and cable refurbishment.
About the role
Learning about what we do will be really exciting and this is the ideal opportunity if you are looking for your first role in the construction industry. We are looking to strengthen our business by recruiting an early careers cohort in 2026 and have an exciting opportunity for a number of Trainee Operatives to join our growing project teams across the UK. This is a full-time role where you will learn on the job while working towards a nationally recognised Level 2 apprenticeship in Highways Maintenance, delivered in partnership with the CITB Construction College. You will join an operational project team and develop practical skills through a mix of real site experience and structured training. Apprenticeships combine work with study, including paid time during your working hours for training and learning.
No previous construction experience is required - full training and support will be provided.
What you will be doing
- Working alongside experienced operatives to support project activities
- Learning how to carry out tasks safely and to the required standard
- Using tools, plant and equipment safely (with training and authorisation)
- Attending CITB training blocks and applying what you learn back on site
- Following health, safety, wellbeing and environmental procedures
- Keeping work areas tidy and safe
- Reporting hazards, near misses or unsafe conditions
- Representing VolkerLaser professionally on site
About you
We are looking for someone reliable, motivated and keen to learn, who enjoys practical, outdoor work and working as part of a team.
You will need:
- An interest in construction or working outdoors
- A positive attitude, good timekeeping and a strong focus on safety
- Commitment to attending and completing CITB training as scheduled
- Willingness to obtain a CSCS card if you do not already have one
- Ability to travel to depot and site locations as required. The role of trainee operative will be based on a site that may not be close to your home and you could be based on any VolkerLaser site across the UK. All travel and hotel accommodation costs will be paid for.
- A driving licence is not required at application stage, but you must be willing to work towards a full UK driving licence during the apprenticeship, as it will be needed for operational duties
Maths and English
If you are under the age of 19 when the apprenticeship begins in September 2026, you are required to have Maths and English Scottish Highers level 4.
Training and development
You will complete the Highways Maintenance Operative - Level 2 apprenticeship. You will be given paid time during your working week for training and study (a minimum of 20% off-the-job learning), alongside hands-on experience on site.
Why work with us?
VolkerLaser is under the umbrella of VolkerWessels UK which is a multidisciplinary contractor that delivers innovative engineering solutions across the civil engineering and construction sectors including rail, highways, airport, marine, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure. By utilising the specialist skills of each business unit within VolkerWessels UK, VolkerLaser are able to ensure our staff provide unrivalled resources and expertise to our clients.
We offer competitive rewards and benefits, recognising the value we place on our employees. We offer a range of benefits, including:
- Competitive salary
- Competitive annual leave and an additional day off on your birthday
- Option to buy additional annual leave
- Private medical care
- Pension
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Shopping and restaurants vouchers, rewards, and discounts
- Training and development opportunities-comprehensive skills-based training
- Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity benefits
- Employee Assistance programme
- Mental health, physical health, and financial support
- 24/7 Virtual GP service
Fairness, inclusion and respect
We believe in pushing boundaries in the pursuit of fairness, inclusion and respect. So, our teams can be comfortable that, whatever their background, VolkerWessels UK is a place where they can be themselves and thrive.
If you need support with your application, please contact us at.
Additional information
Note for Recruitment Agencies: Our preference is to hire directly, and we will reach out to our Preferred Supplier List (PSL) agencies if this particular role qualifies for release. We kindly request that you refrain from sending speculative CVs. In the event of speculative CV submissions, no fees will be applicable, and we kindly ask that all inquiries to be directed.
VolkerWessels UK is committed to maintaining healthy, safe and productive working conditions for its entire staff and therefore a drugs & alcohol screening is mandatory for all.
Trainee Operative: Highways Maintenance Apprenticeship in Glasgow employer: VolkerWessels UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
VolkerWessels UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Operative: Highways Maintenance Apprenticeship in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on VolkerLaser and their projects. This will help you show genuine interest and ask insightful questions during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Try out some common interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though this is a practical role, showing up in smart attire can make a great first impression. It shows you’re serious about the opportunity and respect the company culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Operative: Highways Maintenance Apprenticeship in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for construction and outdoor work shine through. We want to see that you're excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your interests align with the role. Mention any relevant experiences or skills, even if they’re from school or hobbies, that show you’re a great fit for our team.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate straightforward applications! Keep your writing clear and to the point, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a fantastic addition to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at VolkerWessels UK Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, take some time to research VolkerLaser and their projects. Familiarise yourself with their work in highways maintenance and the specific tasks you might be involved in. This shows your genuine interest and helps you answer questions more confidently.
✨Safety First
Since safety is a big part of the role, be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in any work environment. Think of examples from school or previous jobs where you followed safety protocols or helped others stay safe. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
VolkerLaser values teamwork, so be ready to share experiences where you've worked well in a team. Whether it's a group project at school or a sports team, highlight how you contributed and what you learned about collaboration.
✨Ask Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, what a typical day looks like, or how success is measured in the role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you determine if the apprenticeship is the right fit for you.