Trainee Operative (Highways Maintenance Apprentice)

Tarmac Trading Ltd; Walsall; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction materials company in the UK is seeking an Apprentice Operative to join their highways maintenance team. This role involves repairing roads, reinstating pavements, and gaining hands-on experience while working towards a skilled operative qualification. No prior experience is needed; candidates must have GCSE Maths and English at pass grade and a driving licence. The company offers a supportive environment with opportunities for personal and career development, including a contributory pension and exclusive discounts.

Benefits

Enhanced holiday entitlement

Contributory pension scheme

Exclusive discounts via Tarmac Rewards

Employee Assistance helpline

Inclusive employee communities

Tailored training and development

Qualifications

• GCSE Maths and English at pass grade, support provided if needed.
• Driving licence required.
• Ability to travel to college.

Responsibilities

• Repair potholes and damaged road surfaces.
• Reinstate and replace pavements, kerbs, and street ironworks.
• Lay new road surfaces using appropriate tools and materials.

Skills

Team player

Communication skills

Ability to follow safety procedures

Willingness to learn

Education

GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent)

Job description

Build the roads that keep Britain moving! Join Tarmac as an Apprentice Operative in highways maintenance and kickstart a hands‑on career where you'll learn essential skills, work on real projects, and help keep Britain moving.

At Tarmac, our Operatives are the heartbeat of our business. As an Apprentice Operative, you'll work on both rural and urban roads, helping to maintain and improve the infrastructure that keeps the country moving. You'll gain hands‑on experience using hand tools, power tools, and pedestrian‑operated plant machinery while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

What You'll Be Doing

• Repairing potholes and damaged road surfaces.
• Reinstating and replacing pavements, kerbs, and street ironworks.
• Laying new road surfaces using appropriate tools and materials.
• Attending daily briefings and toolbox talks with a proactive approach to health and safety.
• Following instructions from team leaders to ensure safe and efficient working practices.
• Representing Tarmac professionally when interacting with clients and the public.
• Participating in training courses and developing your skills in machinery and plant use (e.g., steel saws, rollers, dumpers).
• Receiving full manual handling training and support to obtain your NRSWA accreditation.
• Minimising environmental impact during operations.

Your Development

Apprenticeships at Tarmac are more than just training – they're a launchpad for your future.

You'll gain hands‑on experience, build valuable skills, and earn a recognised qualification, all while bringing fresh ideas and energy to your team!

Qualification

Highways Maintenance Skilled Operative – Level 2 Apprenticeship.

What we're looking for…

We welcome people from all backgrounds – no prior experience needed!

Essential

• GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent) at pass grade. However, we can support you in gaining the qualifications you need as part of your apprenticeship so don't worry!
• Ability to travel to college.
• Driving Licence.

Desirable

• Strong commitment to working safely and responsibly – safety is at the heart of everything we do.
• True team player with great communication skills and a positive attitude.
• Willingness to learn, grow, and take on new challenges.
• Pride in your work and the motivation to succeed and make a real impact.

Ready to get started?

Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in operations with Tarmac – where your work helps build the world around you.

Why Choose Tarmac?

This is where talent meets opportunity – ignite your potential!

At Tarmac, we believe in building more than just roads and infrastructure – we build careers. As the UK's largest construction materials company, we offer exciting early career opportunities that fit your lifestyle, whether you're on‑site, in the office, or a mix of both. Join us to earn, learn, and grow while helping shape a more sustainable future. We're committed to your development and wellbeing, offering a supportive environment where you can thrive.

Here's what you can look forward to:

• Enhanced holiday entitlement.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Exclusive discounts via the Tarmac Rewards website.
• Free and confidential support through our Employee Assistance helpline.
• Inclusive employee communities, including REACH (Religious, Ethnic and Cultural Heritage), LGBTQ+, Parents & Carers, Ability, Wellbeing, and Female Voice.
• Training and development tailored to your goals.

We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer, fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome and encouraged to apply.

Don't Miss Out!

We may close applications early if we receive a high volume of candidates – so if this sounds like your kind of opportunity, get your application in ASAP!