Waterways Operative

Morson Edge; Devizes; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A waterways conservation organization seeks a Waterways Operative in Devizes. This full-time role involves maintaining and improving the local canal network while engaging with communities. Enjoy outdoor work year-round, operating locks and ensuring visitor safety. Ideal candidates will respect nature and have strong public interaction skills. Working hours are 37 per week at £12.88/hr, with a contract duration of 2 months.

Qualifications

• Enjoys practical, physical outdoor work year‑round.
• Has respect for nature and local communities.
• Confident in public interactions and handling unexpected situations.
• Works safely and responsibly in a team.
• Brings a 'can-do' attitude to deliver quality work.

Responsibilities

• Carry out maintenance and repair works on the waterway infrastructure.
• Operate locks, bridges, and weirs safely and efficiently.
• Undertake practical tasks like towpath improvements and litter removal.
• Support protection of the environment during all works.
• Respond quickly and safely to issues or incidents.
• Work alongside and lead volunteers to deliver projects.
• Report damage or pollution to the Area Operations Manager.
• Plan and deliver tasks efficiently.

Skills

Practical, physical outdoor work

Respect for nature and environment

Public interaction skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving abilities

Attention to detail

Job description

Waterways Operative - Devizes (Full Time, Temporary)

Start Date : ASAP

Contract Duration : 2 months initially

Hours : 37 hours per week (typically 8am-4pm, adjusted for winter hours)

Rate : £12.88 p / hr

Location : Devizes and surrounding waterways

About the Role

Do you enjoy working outdoors, whatever the weather? Are you practical, hands‑on, and passionate about protecting nature and local heritage?

We're looking for a Waterways Operative to join our team in Devizes, helping to maintain, conserve and improve our region's beautiful canal network.

You’ll spend your days outdoors, working on and around the waterways—operating locks, bridges and weirs, maintaining towpaths, and ensuring visitors and boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience.

This is a role where no two days are the same, and your work will make a real difference to local communities and everyone who uses and enjoys our waterways.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out maintenance and repair works on the waterway infrastructure to maximise network availability.
• Operate assets such as locks, bridges and weirs safely and efficiently.
• Undertake a range of practical tasks— from towpath improvements to litter removal.
• Support the protection of the natural and historic environment during all works.
• Respond to issues or incidents quickly and safely, ensuring customer and network safety.
• Work alongside and occasionally lead volunteers to deliver high-quality projects.
• Report damage, pollution or structural concerns to the Area Operations Manager or Engineers.
• Plan and deliver tasks efficiently, ensuring proper use of equipment and materials.
• Always demonstrate the Trust's values— professionalism, teamwork, and inclusion.

About You

• Enjoys practical, physical outdoor work year‑round.
• Has a genuine respect for nature, the environment, and the communities who live and work along the waterways.
• Is confident dealing with the public and able to handle unexpected situations calmly and respectfully.
• Can work safely, responsibly, and as part of a team.
• Brings a 'can‑do' attitude and takes pride in delivering quality work.