Waste and Recycling Labourer

About the role

You will be working as a Construction Operative undertaking general building duties covering repairs, refurbishment and upgrades to all property types within the Council’s property portfolio and as required in line with business need. You will undertake minor cross‑trade work to support the service ‘one front door’ approach, be proactive in all aspects of health and safety, and work collaboratively with the team to deliver positive outcomes for our customers.

The service operates from 8am to 8pm to meet customer need; therefore, there may be a requirement for some later working. We also operate an out-of-hours arrangement and employees will be asked to participate.

• Assist different trades in completing their works, particularly regarding manual handling, movement of materials and general building activities.
• Liaise with customers and subcontractors to provide a responsive and customer‑focused service.
• Undertake groundwork and substructure drainage, excavations, and concreting works.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and tidy site.
• Assist subcontractors when directed by a Gateshead Council manager or supervisor.
• Undertake ongoing risk assessment in relation to the role.
• Demonstrate excellent conduct and behaviour that promotes cross‑service working to achieve excellent service provision and outcomes for customers.
• Be proactive in all aspects of health and safety management to comply with current legislation, including CDM regulations, promoting a culture of good health and safety practice within the working environment, in line with Council policies and procedures.
• Work as part of a team, collaborating and sharing knowledge openly to enhance service delivery, ensuring both individual and team objectives are met.

• Up‑to‑date understanding and application of health and safety legislation.
• Knowledge of the construction industry.
• Experience working at height, on scaffolding, and in confined spaces.
• Experience working with and alongside other trade professionals.
• Experience undertaking labouring duties on groundwork projects.
• Ability to undertake manual activities, including walking, lifting, carrying, bending, and climbing.
• Full valid UK driving licence or access to appropriate mobility support.
• Current CSCS Card, or willingness to work towards obtaining the qualification.

• Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don’t just offer a great salary – we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides:
• Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Flexible
  
  Working Hours:
  
  08:00 to 16:30 Monday to Thursday, 08:00 to 15:30 on a Friday. You will be entitled to a RDO day every four weeks.
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions – a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).

We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. At Gateshead Council we embrace diversity, demonstrate equality for all and will go the extra mile to represent the communities we serve and each other.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. In high‑volume recruitment situations we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria based on the information provided in the application. The Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust the shortlisting criteria, including the pass mark for interview selection, to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process.

We encourage early applications.