Construction Operative

Who we are & what we stand for

Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.

We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’d be joining us at a very exciting time.

We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.

At Gateshead Council you’d be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi‑time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.

Our construction colleagues have significant responsibility for the ongoing maintenance of one of the region’s largest property portfolios. With work spanning responsive and planned repairs, cyclical maintenance and emergency out of hours repairs, fire and building safety, disabled adaptations, asset improvement, stores, purchasing and waste, call handling and customer support, this is a high‑performing team operating on the front line with a truly vital role to play in ensuring safe living and working conditions for residents and employees of Gateshead.

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 asked to participate.

• To assist different trades in the completion of their works particularly regarding manual handling, movement of materials and general building activities.
• To liaise with customers and subcontractors to provide a responsive and customer focused service.
• To undertake groundwork and substructure drainage, excavations, and concreting works.
• To maintain a safe, clean, and tidy site.
• To assist subcontractors at times when directed by a Gateshead Council manager or supervisor.
• To undertake a continual program of risk assessment in relation to the role.
• To demonstrate excellent conduct and behaviour which promotes cross service working to achieve excellent service provision and outcomes for customers.
• To 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.
• To 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 Salar
  y:
  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:
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