Casual Out Of Highway Operative

Contract | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom

Posted On 16/10/2026

City Swindon

Province Wiltshire

Postal Code SN1

Job Purpose

To support the Council's Highway Operations service by responding to out-of-hours highway emergencies and incidents, ensuring the safe passage of the public and maintaining the safety and operational integrity of the highway network in accordance with the Highways Act 1980.

The postholder will attend emergency call-outs, undertake highway repairs and safety works, implement traffic management measures and assist in responding to incidents such as road traffic collisions, flooding, potholes and highway hazards. The role requires working safely, effectively and professionally in challenging environments, often outside normal working hours.

• Respond to out-of-hours highway emergency call-outs on a rota basis.
• Attend highway incidents including:
  • Road Traffic Collisions
  • Potholes
  • Localised Flooding
  • Oil Spillages
  • Highway Defects
  • Emergency Highway Repairs
• Assist Highway Inspectors, Senior Specialists and Emergency Officers during incidents.
• Ensure the safe movement of the general public and road users.
• Install, maintain and remove traffic management in accordance with Chapter 8 requirements.
• Erect signs, barriers, cones and safety equipment correctly and safely.
• Follow Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS).
• Identify hazards and contribute to safe systems of work.
• Attend and participate in Toolbox Talks and site briefings.
• Comply with Health and Safety at Work Act requirements.
• Wear and maintain all issued PPE.
• Operate powered hand tools, machinery and plant equipment safely.
• Undertake highway maintenance and civil engineering works as directed.
• Support small teams of operatives during emergency works.
• Complete timesheets, records and documentation accurately.
• Record labour, materials, plant usage and rechargeable works.
• Maintain tools, vehicles, machinery and equipment in good working condition.
• Dispose of waste materials responsibly and in accordance with environmental regulations.
• Promote recycling and sustainable working practices wherever possible.
• Attend mandatory training and maintain required certifications.
• Work professionally with members of the public, contractors, emergency services and colleagues.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping and site cleanliness.

• Significant experience within highways maintenance, civil engineering, construction or groundwork operations.
• Experience working on highway schemes and emergency response activities.
• Understanding of:
  • Highway Maintenance Processes
  • Civil Engineering Practices
  • Groundwork Operations
  • Traffic Management Requirements
  • Utility Plans
  • Contract Drawings
• Experience using hand tools, powered tools and plant equipment.
• Knowledge of risk assessments and safe systems of work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Strong awareness of health, safety and environmental requirements.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to supervise small operational teams where required.

• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Street Works Qualification.
• Chapter 8 Traffic Signs, Lighting and Guarding Qualification.
• CSCS Card.
• First Aid Qualification or First Response First Aider Certification.
• Needle stick Awareness Training.
• Abrasive Wheels Training.
• Experience responding to emergency highway incidents.
• Experience operating specialist highway maintenance plant.
• Previous Local Authority highways experience.
• Environmental and waste management knowledge.