Craft Operative

Canal & River Trust; Crickhowell; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Increased holiday entitlement

Employee benefits

Job summary

Canal & River Trust in Wales is seeking a Craft Operative (Joiner/Carpentry) to maintain and repair canal infrastructure across the Wales & South West region. You will interpret drawings, operate tools safely, and support volunteers while travelling regionally to project sites.

The role requires practical construction experience, an apprenticeship or NVQ Level 2, and a valid UK driving license. A permanent on-site position with annualised hours awaits you with competitive benefits.

Qualifications

• Trade relevant apprenticeship or equivalent qualification (e.g. City & Guilds or NVQ Level 2).
• Practical construction experience, including safe operation of tools and equipment.
• Full and current UK driving license.
• Possession of H&S competencies and/or valid certifications for plant, tools, and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Carry out outdoor maintenance and repairs to canal infrastructure.
• Use joinery and masonry skills to refurbish and repair assets.
• Interpret and apply technical drawings and specifications.
• Operate tools and machinery safely and responsibly, with PPE.
• Travel regionally across Wales & South West to support projects.
• Support and guide volunteers and engage with communities.

Education

NVQ Level 2 / City & Guilds

Tools

Chainsaws

Site plant

Job description

Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive. We're excited to welcome a new Craft Operative (Joiner/Carpentry) to our team. This role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact by helping maintain and enhance our beautiful canal network. You'll work on locks, bridges, aqueducts, towpaths, and more - preserving these historic assets for everyone to enjoy. The Direct Services team delivers the essential, on-the-groundwork that keeps our waterways running - from planned maintenance and construction projects to emergency repairs and heritage restoration. They combine skilled trades, practical know-how and a real passion for the outdoors to repair infrastructure, respond to urgent issues, and look after the places communities love. Their work makes a visible difference every single day. Working Hours & Travel This role works under an annualised hours system and typically operates 5 days out of 7, which may include weekends and statutory holidays. At times, operational demands may require working more than 5 days within a 7-day period. You will also be part of a 24 hour operational standby rota, providing emergency cover when needed. New starters will only join the on-call rota once they are fully trained and confident in the role. You'll be based at our Crickhowell (NP8 1DF) and will travel across the Wales & South West region, with occasional work supporting neighbouring areas.

• Carry out outdoor maintenance and repairs to canal infrastructure.
• Use construction skills including masonry work and joinery to refurbish and repair assets.
• Interpret and apply technical drawings and specifications to guide construction activities.
• Operate tools and machinery safely and responsibly, ensuring proper use of PPE and materials.
• Maintain equipment and workspace to high standards.
• Respond to customer queries and emergencies with care and professionalism.
• Support and guide volunteers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
• Travel regionally to support priority construction projects. We welcome individuals with practical skills and a willingness to learn. Whether you come from a building or [specialism] background, your experience and enthusiasm will help you thrive in this role.
• Trade relevant apprenticeship or equivalent qualification (e.g. City & Guilds or NVQ Level 2).
• Practical construction experience, including safe operation of tools and equipment such as chainsaws and site plant.
• Possession of H&S competencies and/or valid, assessed certifications for the safe and effective use of plant, tools, and equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Full and current UK driving license. We offer a starting salary of £29,354, with opportunities for progression. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits. For a full breakdown of our benefits, check out our brochure here: ( )