BT Duct Blockage Clearance Operative / Civil Engineer

Upscale utilities; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utilities provider in the UK seeks a BT Duct Blockage Clearance Operative to manage blockage issues in underground duct networks. The role involves teamwork, problem-solving, and adherence to safety standards, requiring relevant experience and NRSWA accreditation. Competitive pay and training opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Overtime and weekend opportunities

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in telecoms, utilities, or civil environments preferred.
• Knowledge of safe excavation practices and duct clearance techniques.
• Ability to follow technical instructions and utility prints.

Responsibilities

• Locate and identify duct blockages using technical drawings.
• Clear blockages with approved techniques such as vacuum excavation.
• Maintain accurate job records for clients and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Telecoms experience

Duct clearance techniques

Reading utility prints

Communication skills

Teamwork

Physical fitness

Education

NRSWA Operative accreditation

SA002 (Safety Overhead)

SA007 (Underground Safety)

Tools

Specialist equipment

Job description

Overview

BT Duct Blockage Clearance Operative / Team. Reports To: Supervisor / Contracts Manager. Location: Field-based - various sites across the UK.

The BT Duct Blockage Clearance Team is responsible for locating, diagnosing, and clearing blockages within BT/Openreach underground duct networks. The role ensures telecoms infrastructure remains accessible for fibre and copper installations, enabling the delivery of broadband and communication services to customers. This is a physically demanding, safety-critical role requiring teamwork, problem-solving, and adherence to health and safety standards at all times.

Key Responsibilities

• Locate and identify duct blockages using site plans, utility drawings, and detection equipment.
• Clear blockages using a variety of methods (hand rodding, winching, vacuum excavation, jetting, or other approved techniques).
• Operate machinery and specialist equipment safely and effectively.
• Excavate and reinstate footways/carriageways where required, ensuring compliance with NRSWA standards.
• Maintain accurate job records, photographs, and reports for submission to the client.
• Liaise with Supervisors, Planners, and Engineers to update progress and escalate any complex issues.
• Ensure all work complies with BT/Openreach specifications and quality standards.
• Adhere strictly to Health, Safety, and Environmental regulations, including use of PPE and traffic management.
• Carry out daily vehicle, plant, and equipment checks, reporting any defects immediately.

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience working within telecoms, utilities, or civils environment (preferred).
• Knowledge of duct clearance techniques and safe excavation practices.
• Ability to read utility prints, job packs, and follow technical instructions.
• NRSWA Operative accreditation (minimum Units 1-6, 9).
• SA002 (Safety Overhead), SA007 (Underground Safety), and other Openreach accreditations desirable.
• Full UK driving licence (HGV / towing licence advantageous).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Personal Attributes

• Safety-first mindset.
• Reliable and hardworking.
• Proactive and able to use initiative.
• Flexible approach to work and willing to travel as required.
• Professional attitude when representing the company on-site.

Benefits

• Competitive pay (depending on experience and accreditations).
• Overtime and weekend opportunities.
• Training and upskilling provided (Openreach modules, NRSWA refreshers, etc.).
• Company vehicle, tools, and PPE provided.
• Career progression opportunities within the business