Skilled Operative

Shearunitysalon; Gravesend; On-site; GBP 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A major civil engineering company based in Gravesend, United Kingdom, is seeking a Skilled Operative with over 10 years of experience in the construction industry. The role involves carrying out small construction projects, particularly in groundworks, along with monitoring quality control and material stock. A competitive benefits package is offered including annual leave, medical cash plan, and onsite parking with electric charging.

Benefits

28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)

Generous pension

Onsite parking with electric charging

Cycle to Work Scheme

Car-leasing scheme (Tusker Cars)

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years site experience in construction.
• Experience in the maritime sector is beneficial.
• Must hold a full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Deputise in the absence of the Construction Supervisor.
• Monitor material stocks and advise on shortages.
• Plan and organize daily tasks to meet project deadlines.
• Quality control and workmanship monitoring.
• Perform groundworks tasks.
• Installation of drainage systems and utility services.

Skills

Groundworks and civil engineering experience

Microsoft Office proficiency

Skills in carpentry and joinery

Bricklaying skills

Painting and decorating skills

Kitchen fitting skills

C1 LGV driving licence or willingness to train

Training course for IPAF certified

Ability to work at height and over water

Education

City & Guilds Full Technological Certificate (FTC) or NVQ Level 2 Diploma

Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS)

Job description

Job Title: Skilled Operative

Department: Civil Engineering

Reporting to: Civil Engineer

Salary: £40,976 per annum

Working pattern: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week

Base: Kent

Closing date: 9th January 2026

Interview date: 28th January 2026

Who We Are

We are the UK's biggest port, central to the country's economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port.

The Role

The Civil Engineering team are seeking a Skilled Operative to carry out small construction projects and maintenance of our assets as part of the Trades Team, with a focus on groundworks. This includes construction, repair, and general upkeep of our assets, using safe and effective construction techniques and finishing skill.

Key Responsibilities

• Deputise in the absence of the Construction Supervisor or Revetement Manager
• Monitor material stocks and advise Construction Supervisor of material shortages etc.
• Plan, organize, and schedule daily tasks to meet project deadlines.
• Quality control and workmanship of permanent works by monitoring work progress and quality, addressing any issues promptly.
• Setting out of the works and to be able to read and interpret construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
• Identify issues to Construction Supervisor or Civil Engineers
• Perform groundworks tasks such as excavation, trenching, levelling, and backfilling to prepare sites for construction.
• Installation of drainage systems, manholes, and utility services.
• Lay foundations, concrete, and hard landscaping materials as required.
• Follow site plans, specifications, and instructions from supervisors or site
• To perform vehicle and plant driving functions.
• Ensure work completed to a high standard to maximise durability.
• Take all reasonable precautions to keep equipment, plant, materials and fuel secure through site inspections

What We Are Looking For

• A minimum of 10 years site experience within the construction industry with an emphasis on groundworks and civil engineering.
• Experience of work within the maritime sector would be useful.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programmes including Word, Excel, Office
• City & Guilds Full Technological Certificate (FTC) in relevant trade or minimum level 2 NVQ Diploma in Building Maintenance, Multi-trade Repair and Refurbishment (Construction)
• Hold current qualification in Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS)
• Full UK driving licence is essential. C1 LGV driving licence is required or will be willing to undertake funded training.
• Hold, or be willing to undertake training course for IPAF (Duel) Mobile Vertical (3a) + (3b) Mobile Boom Operator
• Skilled in groundworks, drainage, carpentry and joinery, bricklaying, roofing, painting and decorating and kitchen fitting
• Qualified, or willing to be trained, to operate plant and access equipment.
• Qualified, or willing to be trained, to work at height and over water.

In Return, We Offer a Competitive Benefits Package

• 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
• Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
• Generous pension
• Onsite parking with electric charging
• Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Car-leasing scheme (Tusker Cars)
• Access to MyGymDiscounts

Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK