General Operative - Highways Vegetation Management

eRecruitSmart; England; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A vegetation management company is seeking General Operatives to assist in highway maintenance across various locations in the UK. The role includes operating machinery for vegetation clearance, ensuring safety standards, and performing general site maintenance. A competitive salary of £25,000 – £35,000 per annum is offered based on experience, along with ongoing training and career progression opportunities. Applicants must hold relevant tickets and reside in the UK within a reasonable commuting distance.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Ongoing training and development

Supportive team culture

Guaranteed time off over Christmas

Qualifications

• Must have the NPTC Brushcutter/Strimmer Ticket to operate safely.
• Wood Chipper Ticket is essential for machinery operations.
• Experience in Blower Operation is necessary; training can be acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Operate strimmers and blowers for effective vegetation clearance.
• Assist with machinery operations and feed chippers.
• Maintain site cleanliness through litter picking activities.

Skills

NPTC Brushcutter/Strimmer Ticket

Wood Chipper Ticket

Blower Operation Training or experience

Highways Passport / ROLO

CSCS Card

Basic Chainsaw Maintenance Ticket

LANTRA Litter Picking Ticket

Full UK Driving Licence

Job description

Our client is looking for hardworking and reliable General Operatives to support their highways vegetation management operations. If you enjoy working outdoors, take pride in maintaining green spaces, and want to contribute to keeping the UK’s roads safe and clear, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Join This Expanding Team!

Locations: Staffordshire, West Midlands, Yorkshire & Surrounding Areas

About the role

As a General Operative, you’ll assist with a variety of tasks to ensure highways remain safe and well‑maintained. This is a long‑term career opportunity with excellent prospects for growth and ongoing training.

Key responsibilities

• Operate strimmers and blowers for vegetation clearance
• Feed chippers and assist with machinery operations
• Carry out general site maintenance and litter picking
• Support arborist and grounds teams with labouring tasks
• Ensure all work complies with health, safety, and environmental standards

Essential skills & tickets

• NPTC Brushcutter/Strimmer Ticket
• Wood Chipper Ticket
• Blower Operation Training (or experience)
• Highways Passport / ROLO (advantageous)
• CSCS Card (preferred)
• Basic Chainsaw Maintenance Ticket (optional but beneficial)
• LANTRA Litter Picking Ticket
• Full UK Driving Licence (preferred)

What they offer

• Competitive Salary: £25,000 – £35,000 per annum (based on experience and qualifications)
• Minimum 40 hours/week
• Night shifts (with night bonus)
• Full PPE and equipment provided
• Ongoing training and development, including industry certifications
• Supportive team culture focused on safety and sustainability
• Opportunities for career progression within a well‑established company
• Guaranteed time off over Christmas

About the company

Operating nationwide from Staffordshire, our client specialises in highway vegetation management, including tree work, grass cutting, seasonal maintenance, and full vegetation clearance. Most work (90%) is carried out at night, with occasional daytime shifts.

How to apply

eRecruitSmart is advertising this role on behalf of the hiring company. By applying, your CV will be reviewed and forwarded to the hiring manager responsible for this vacancy.

You must currently reside in and have the right to work in the UK and live within a reasonable commute to the role. Please ensure your CV includes your location and contact details, otherwise you may not be considered. Only suitable applicants will be contacted.

We look forward to receiving your application.