Skilled Operative

Job title: Skilled Operative Department: Civil Engineering Reporting to: Civil Engineer Grade: 8 Salary: £40,976 per annum Working pattern: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week Base: Based at Denton, working across all PLA sites. Closing date: 9th January 2026 Interview date: 28th January 2026 Who we are: We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port. We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea. The role: The Civil Engineering team are seeking a Skilled Operative to carry out small construction projects and maintenance of PLA assets as part of the Trades Team, with a focus on groundworks. This includes construction, repair, and general upkeep of PLA assets, using safe and effective construction techniques and finishing skill. Key responsibilities: * Deputise in the absence of the Construction Supervisor or Revetement Manager * Monitor material stocks and advise Construction Supervisor of material shortages etc. * Plan, organize, and schedule daily tasks to meet project deadlines. * Quality control and workmanship of permanent works by monitoring work progress and quality, addressing any issues promptly. * Setting out of the works and to be able to read and interpret construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications. * Identify issues to Construction Supervisor or Civil Engineers * Perform groundworks tasks such as excavation, trenching, levelling, and backfilling to prepare sites for construction. * Installation of drainage systems, manholes, and utility services. * Lay foundations, concrete, and hard landscaping materials as required. * Follow site plans, specifications, and instructions from supervisors or site * To perform vehicle and plant driving functions. * Ensure work completed to a high standard to maximise durability. * Take all reasonable precautions to keep equipment, plant, materials and fuel secure through site inspections What we are looking for: * A minimum of 10 years site experience within the construction industry with an emphasis on groundworks and civil engineering. * Experience of work within the maritime sector would be useful. * Proficient in Microsoft Office programmes including Word, Excel, Office * City & Guilds – Full Technological Certificate (FTC) in relevant trade or minimum level 2 NVQ Diploma in Building Maintenance, Multi-trade Repair and Refurbishment (Construction) * Hold current qualification in Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) * Full UK driving licence is essential. ‘C1’ LGV driving licence is required or will be willing to undertake funded training. * Hold, or be willing to undertake training course for IPAF (Duel) Mobile Vertical (3a) + (3b) Mobile Boom – Operator * Skilled in groundworks, drainage, carpentry and joinery, bricklaying, roofing, painting and decorating and kitchen fitting * Qualified, or willing to be trained, to operate plant and access equipment. * Qualified, or willing to be trained, to work at height and over water. In return, we offer a competitive benefits package: * 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays) * Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health) * Generous pension * Onsite parking with electric charging * Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy * Cycle to Work Scheme * Car-leasing scheme (Tusker Cars) * Access to MyGymDiscounts For further information or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Nick Jordan, Civil Engineering Department at Nick.Jordan@pla.co.uk [Nick.Jordan@pla.co.uk] The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.