Solar Piling Rig Operator

ASTUTE Technical Recruitment Ltd; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy company is seeking a Solar Piling Rig Operator to work nationwide. Responsibilities include operating specialized piling rigs and ensuring accurate pile placement. Applicants should have a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Piling Operations and a CPCS certification preferred. The role offers a competitive salary of up to £60,000 and benefits including private medical insurance and pension contributions.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Pension Contributions

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Clean Full UK Licence required.
• Solid understanding of piling rig components and safe operation practices.
• Practical knowledge of industry regulations and manufacturer guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Operate specialised piling rigs on site.
• Ensure accurate placement and alignment of piles.
• Conduct pre-use equipment checks.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Communication

Physically fit

Team-oriented

Adaptable

Education

Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Piling Operations

CPCS Piling Rig Operator certification

Job description

Overview

Astute’s Renewables team is partnering with an innovative renewable energy company that specialises in large-scale ground-mounted solar systems, providing design, manufacture, and installation services. We are recruiting for a Solar Piling Rig Operator to cover projects Nationwide.

The Solar Piling Rig Operator comes with a salary up to £60,000 depending on experience.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Head of Installation you will:

• Operate specialised piling rigs, including compact, self-propelled, and hydraulic crawler models.
• Ensure accurate placement and alignment of piles to meet project specifications.
• Drive or screw piles (metal, wood, or concrete) into the ground to provide foundational support for solar farm structures, targeting 80–100 holes per day depending on ground conditions.
• Configure rigs for travel and safe operation on varied site conditions.
• Conduct pre-use equipment checks to ensure machinery is in optimal working condition.
• Safely operate machinery on uneven, confined, or challenging terrain.
• Maintain safe working practices and comply with all health and safety regulations.
• Identify and respond to hazards, including overhead services and unstable ground.
• Perform routine rig maintenance, shutdown procedures, and understand operational limitations.
• Prepare rigs for de-rigging and transportation between project sites.

Professional qualifications

• Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Piling Operations (Piling Rig Operator) or equivalent experience.
• CPCS Piling Rig Operator certification or similar recognised qualification preferred.
• Clean Full UK Licence.
• Solid understanding of piling rig components, controls, and safe operation practices.
• Strong attention to detail, ensuring accurate pile placement and compliance with safety protocols.
• Practical knowledge of industry regulations and manufacturer guidelines.
• Ability to adapt to different site conditions and terrains.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards.

Personal skills

The Solar Piling Rig Operator role would suit someone who is:

• Physically fit and able to handle the demands of outdoor construction work.
• Ability to work independently and take responsibility for your own tasks.
• Team-oriented with good communication skills for coordinating with colleagues on site.
• Problem-solving mindset to quickly address challenges in varying site conditions.
• Adaptable and flexible to work nationwide and with possible occasional weekends.
• Reliable and punctual, with a strong work ethic.
• Eager to learn and develop skills in piling operations and renewable energy projects.

Salary and benefits

• Salary circa £60,000 depending on experience
• Private Medical Insurance
• Pension Contributions
• Opportunities for professional development

Astute People are acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and comply with all relevant UK legislation. We encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Astute is also committed to the government's Disability Confident Employer initiative. We endeavour to get back to everyone, however, if you have not heard anything after 7 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.