Excavator Operator

Laing O'Rourke; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 1 - 2; Full time

Job summary

Select Plant Hire, part of the Laing O’Rourke Group, is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator for UK project locations. You will operate 360/180 excavators, perform pre-start checks, and work safely to support civil engineering tasks.

You must hold CPCS or NPORS, CSCS where required, and a valid UK driving licence. Willingness to travel regionally and nationally is required; opportunities across multiple sites offered.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating excavators in construction or civil environments.
• Valid CPCS or NPORS certification for excavator category.
• Good understanding of safe digging practices and underground service avoidance.
• Knowledge of lifting operations, exclusion zones and safe operating limits.
• Strong understanding of health and safety requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Operate 360 and/or 180 excavators to carry out digging, trenching, grading, lifting and loading tasks.
• Conduct pre-start checks, routine inspections and basic maintenance.
• Operate plant machinery safely in line with training and OEM guidelines.
• Complete daily walk-around checks and inspections per manufacturer recommendations.
• Ensure plant remains in good condition and free from damage.
• Accurately complete timesheets and operational records.
• Liaise with Supervisors and Management regarding work requirements.
• Maintain safe, clean and organised working areas.
• Attend inductions, toolbox talks and required training courses.
• Promote health, safety and environmental standards at all times.

Skills

Excavator operation

Team player

Independent worker

Health & safety awareness

Education

Full UK Driving Licence

Tools

CPCS/NPORS certification

Lifting operations awareness

Job description

Excavator Operator

Location

Various UK Project Locations

Duties

• Operate 360 and/or 180 excavators (wheeled or tracked) to carry out digging, trenching, grading, lifting and loading tasks.
• Conduct pre-start checks, routine inspections and basic maintenance to ensure the machine is safe and serviceable.
• Operate plant machinery safely in line with training and OEM guidelines.
• Complete daily walk-around checks and inspections in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
• Ensure plant remains in good condition and free from damage.
• Accurately complete timesheets and operational records.
• Liaise with Supervisors and Management regarding work requirements.
• Maintain safe, clean and organised working areas.
• Attend inductions, toolbox talks and required training courses.
• Promote health, safety and environmental standards at all times.

Experience/Skills Required

• Proven experience operating excavators within construction or civil engineering environments.
• Valid CPCS or NPORS certification for relevant excavator category.
• Good understanding of safe digging practices and underground service avoidance.
• Knowledge of lifting operations, exclusion zones and safe operating limits.
• Strong understanding of health and safety requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Requirements

• Valid CPCS/NPORS Card.
• CSCS Card (where required).
• Full UK Driving Licence desirable.
• Lifting Operations experience desirable.
• Willingness to travel regionally and nationally as required.

About Us

Select Plant Hire is one of the UK's largest and most successful equipment and service providers, supporting Laing O'Rourke projects and external customers across the construction industry.

As part of the Laing O'Rourke Group, we provide industry-leading plant, equipment and logistics solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety, innovation and performance.