Civil Operatives

Turner Lovell; Wales; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering contractor in the UK is seeking a Civil Operative for site-based substation projects in Wales. The role involves executing civil and groundworks activities, operating heavy machinery, and ensuring health and safety compliance. Candidates should hold a CSCS Card and have experience in civil groundworks or utilities. Competitive pay of £25+ per hour awaits the right individual, alongside opportunities for career progression and development of National Grid competencies.

Benefits

Long-term work on major projects

Opportunities for competency development

Stable pipeline of work across Wales

Supportive site teams and progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience in civil groundworks or utilities projects.
• Experience on substations or live utility environments is desirable.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Carry out earthworks, drainage installations, and ducting in substations.
• Operate plant and machinery like excavators and dumpers.
• Install temporary works and construct cess tanks and oil separators.
• Follow safety regulations and support safety documentation completion.
• Maintain a tidy and compliant working environment.

Skills

Civil groundworks experience

Ability to read construction drawings

Health and safety awareness

Education

CSCS Card

Full UK Driving Licence

Tools

Excavator ticket

Dumper ticket

Roller ticket

Job description

Job Title: Civil Operative - Substation Projects
Location: Southwest - Wales (site-based)
Sector: Energy / Utilities / Power Infrastructure
Rates: £25 + an hour + CIS

Must have a National Grid Persons ticket

Key Responsibilities

• Civil & Groundworks Activities – Carry out earthworks, drainage installations, ducting and trough systems within substation environments; Construct reinforced concrete (RC) foundations, bases, plinths and concrete footpaths; Install security fencing and associated civil infrastructure.
• Plant & Equipment Operation – Operate plant and machinery, including excavators, dumpers and rollers; Support lifting and placing operations in line with site method statements.
• Specialist Civil Works – Install temporary works for deep drainage systems; Construct and install cess tanks, oil separators, pumping stations, manholes and catchpit chambers.
• Health, Safety & Compliance – Follow safe digging practices using Cat & Genny; Work in accordance with HSWA, CDM Regulations and site-specific procedures; Support completion of permits, RAMS and other safety documentation; Develop competency with National Grid safety documentation (where applicable).
• General Site Duties – Work closely with Site Supervisors, Engineers and subcontractors; Maintain a safe, tidy and compliant working environment; Contribute to efficient project delivery and programme targets.

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in civil groundworks or utilities projects.
• Experience working on substations, HV sites or live utility environments (desirable).
• Ability to read and work from construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong understanding of health and safety on construction sites.

Qualifications & Certifications

• CSCS Card (essential).
• CCNSG Safety Passport (preferred).
• Relevant plant tickets (excavator, dumper, roller).
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• IOSH, SSSTS or SMSTS (advantageous but not essential).

What's on Offer

• Long-term work on major substation and energy infrastructure projects.
• Opportunities to develop National Grid competencies and safety authorisations.
• Stable pipeline of work across Wales.
• Supportive site teams and clear progression opportunities.