Assistant Drainage Operative

Purpose and Scope of the Role

Tetra Tech is seeking additional Assistant Drainage Operatives to join our wastewater network team. You will work as part of a 3-person site survey crew, collecting flow data and other information from above and below-ground wastewater assets. Day to day, you will support safe survey delivery, move equipment and chamber covers, monitor crew safety, and help protect the public while working on highways, in confined spaces, and around operational assets.

Full training will be provided; no previous water industry experience is required.

In the short term, you will build confidence in field operations, health and safety, and survey support activities. In the medium term, you will contribute to the efficient delivery of critical wastewater data that informs network performance, leakage reduction, flood prevention, and pollution mitigation. Longer term, this role offers the opportunity to develop within Tetra Tech, broaden your technical experience, and progress into more specialist operational or surveying roles.

• Safety Mindset

  You must work with strong health and safety awareness, follow safe systems of work, and support the wellbeing of your crew and the public at all times.

• Team working

  You will work closely with a crew leader and survey colleagues, staying alert, reliable, and supportive throughout each shift.

• Physical Readiness

  The role involves lifting, carrying, handling heavy covers, working outdoors, and operating in confined spaces and at height.

• Communication and Instructions

  You should be able to follow direction accurately, communicate clearly, and contribute to accurate field operations.

• Flexibility and Adaptability

  You will need a flexible approach to working hours, with occasional evenings, nights, weekends, overtime, and travel away from home.

Essential: full UK driving licence.

Desirable: CSCS card.

Training is provided, including the practical and safety requirements needed for the role.

This is a permanent role, generally Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, based from our Clevedon office. Some hybrid or flexible working may be available, but this is primarily a field-based role with regular site attendance required. Occasional night shifts and work away from home will be expected. Mandatory drugs and alcohol testing and a DBS check apply.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day-to-day role. #AS&I