Drainage Operative

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A drainage and environmental services company is seeking a Drainage Operative to conduct reactive and planned drainage works in London and surrounding areas. You'll perform tasks such as attending blocked drain call-outs and conducting CCTV drain surveys. Ideal candidates will have experience in drainage or plumbing, a UK driving licence, and a strong work ethic. Competitive salary up to £37,000 plus overtime and benefits, including ongoing training, equipment, and pension scheme.

Benefits

Company vehicle and fuel card

Uniform and PPE provided

Ongoing training and certifications

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Previous experience in drainage, utilities, plumbing, or groundworks is preferred.
• Must be comfortable with manual work and outdoor environments.
• Full UK driving licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Attend blocked drain call‑outs.
• Perform high‑pressure water jetting.
• Carry out drain unblocking, cleaning, and descaling.
• Conduct CCTV drain surveys (training provided if required).
• Handle minor drain repairs and maintenance.
• Complete job reports and liaise with customers on‑site.

Skills

Experience in drainage, utilities, plumbing, or groundworks

Good communication and customer service skills

Comfortable with manual work and outdoor environments

Strong work ethic

Job description

Drainage Operative

London & M25
Up to £37,000 basic + overtime + benefits

The Company

We are working on behalf of a well-established and growing drainage and environmental services company with a strong footprint across London and the surrounding areas. Due to an increasing workload and long-term contracts, they are now looking to recruit a Drainage Operative to join their field-based operations team.

This is a stable, long-term role with consistent work, modern equipment, and clear opportunities to increase earnings.

The Role

As a Drainage Operative, you will be responsible for carrying out a range of reactive and planned drainage works across residential, commercial, and industrial sites.

The role is hands‑on and field‑based, working both independently and as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Attending blocked drain call‑outs

• High‑pressure water jetting

• Drain unblocking, cleaning and descaling

• CCTV drain surveys (training provided if required)

• Minor drain repairs and maintenance

• Completing job reports and liaising with customers on‑site

• Working safely in line with company and H&S procedures

Requirements

• Previous experience in drainage, utilities, plumbing, or groundworks (preferred)

• Comfortable with manual work and outdoor environments

• Willingness to work a call‑out rota (paid additionally)

• Full UK driving licence

• Good communication and customer service skills

• A strong work ethic and reliable attitude

Training can be provided for candidates with transferable experience.

Salary & Benefits

• Up to £37,000 basic salary (depending on experience)

• Overtime available

• Call‑out / standby payments

• Company vehicle and fuel card

• Uniform and PPE provided

• Ongoing training and certifications

• Pension scheme