Multi-Skilled Carpenter; Canal Infrastructure & Maintenance

Multi-Skilled Carpenter (Canal Infrastructure & Maintenance) Job Description About the Trust

We're one of the UK’s biggest charities and we care for 2,000 miles of canals, rivers, docks and reservoirs because we believe life is better by water.

We're looking for people who support our cause and want to make a difference for future generations. Could this be you?

Along with our waterways we also manage museums, archives and the country's third largest collection of historic buildings, as well as the nature and wildlife that calls our canals home. All of this enables us to provide wellbeing opportunities for millions of people each year.

Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive.

We’re excited to welcome a new Craft Operative (Carpentry bias) to our team. This role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact by helping maintain and enhance our beautiful canal network. You’ll work on locks, bridges, aqueducts, towpaths, and more - preserving these historic assets for everyone to enjoy.

The Direct Services team delivers the essential, on‑the‑groundwork that keeps our waterways running - from planned maintenance and construction projects to emergency repairs and heritage restoration. They combine skilled trades, practical know‑how and a real passion for the outdoors to repair infrastructure, respond to urgent issues, and look after the places communities love. Their work makes a visible difference every single day.

This role operates on an annualised hours contract (1931.4 hours per year, averaging 37 hours per week), which includes weekends and bank holidays as required. Due to operational needs, there may be occasions where you are required to work more than five days within a seven-day period. You will also participate in a 24-hour standby rota to provide emergency cover. New starters will join the on-call rota once fully trained and confident in the role.

You’ll be based at our Adelaide depot, Southall (UB2 5QW
) and will travel across the London & South East region, with the focus of your work being around the East & West London;
Lee Navigation, Regent's and Grand Union canal. Mileage and tolls associated to travel are supported through the Trust expenses policy.

See our network here: UK Canal Network Map | Canal & River Trust

As a Craft Operative, you’ll undertake essential construction work and help maintain and repair vital canal infrastructure, fit and refurbish lock gates, and collaborate with specialist teams. Your work will support our commitment to safety, heritage, and environmental standards and help keep canals open and alive.

• Carry out outdoor maintenance and repairs to canal infrastructure.
• Use construction skills including masonry work and joinery to refurbish and repair assets.
• Interpret and apply technical drawings and specifications to guide construction activities.
• Operate tools and machinery safely and responsibly, ensuring proper use of PPE and materials.
• Maintain equipment and workspace to high standards.
• Respond to customer queries and emergencies with care and professionalism.
• Support and guide volunteers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
• Travel regionally to support priority construction projects.

We welcome individuals with practical skills and a willingness to learn. Whether you come from a building or [specialism] background, your experience and enthusiasm will help you thrive in this role.

• Trade relevant apprenticeship or equivalent qualification (e.g. City & Guilds or NVQ Level
  2).
• Practical construction experience, including safe operation of tools and equipment…