Waterway Maintainer & Locks Operator – North West

CANAL & RIVER TRUST; Lancaster; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Generous holiday entitlement

Employee benefits

Job summary

The Canal & River Trust is seeking a Waterway Operative to maintain and improve our North West waterways, primarily the Lancaster Canal, Glasson Branch and Ribble Link. This is a hands-on outdoor role carrying out maintenance and repair works, operating locks and bridges, and delivering excellent customer service to visitors.

Based at the Lancaster Depot with travel across the North West, you will work to a 5 days out of 7 pattern on an annualised hours system, with 24-hour standby for

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail and pride in delivering high-quality work.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills – you’ll be the face of the Trust on our waterways.
• Basic literacy and numeracy.
• Experience in manual, construction, or outdoor environments is advantageous.
• Ability to work to schedules and plans effectively.
• Basic IT skills – comfortable using mobile devices and apps.
• Full and current manual UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Carry out outdoor maintenance and repair of canal infrastructure.
• Operate locks, bridges, and other waterway assets safely and efficiently.
• Improve towpaths and waterside areas, including repairs and litter removal.
• Deliver excellent customer service to visitors and boaters.
• Work collaboratively with volunteers to achieve high-quality results.
• Plan and prepare for tasks, ensuring correct tools and materials are available.
• Uphold Canal & River Trust values and behaviours in all activities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Literacy & numeracy

Manual/outdoor experience

Scheduling & planning

IT skills

Full UK driving licence

Job description

The Canal & River Trust is seeking a Waterway Operative to maintain and improve our North West waterways, primarily the Lancaster Canal, Glasson Branch and Ribble Link. This is a hands-on outdoor role carrying out maintenance and repair works, operating locks and bridges, and delivering excellent customer service to visitors.

Based at the Lancaster Depot with travel across the North West, you will work to a 5 days out of 7 pattern on an annualised hours system, with 24-hour standby for