Craft Operative, Joiner​/Carpentry generalist

Craft Operative, Joiner/Carpentry generalist Job Description

Posted Friday, 28 August 2026 at 00:00 | Expires Sunday, 13 September 2026 at 23:59

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.

Join Our Team:
Craft Operative [Joiner/Carpentry generalist] opportunity

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 (Joiner/Carpentry) 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 works under an annualised hours system and typically operates 5 days out of 7, which may include weekends and statutory holidays. At times, operational demands may require working more than 5 days within a 7 ‑ day period.

You will also be part of a 24 hour operational standby rota
, providing emergency cover when needed. New starters will only join the on ‑ call rota once they are fully trained and confident in the role.

You’ll be based at our Crickhowell (NP8 1DF
) and will travel across the Wales & South West region
, with occasional work supporting neighbouring areas.

As a Craft Operative, you’ll undertake essential construction work and help maintain and repairvitalcanal infrastructure, fit and refurbish lock gates, and collaborate with specialist teams. Your work will support our commitment to safety, heritage, and environmental standard sand 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 & GuildsorNVQ Level2).
• Practical construction experience, including safe operation of tools and equipment such as chainsaws and site plant.
• Possession of H&S competencies and/or valid, assessed certifications for the safe and effective use of plant, tools, and equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Full and current UK driving license.

We offer a starting salary of £29,354
, with opportunities for progression. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits. For a full breakdown of our benefits, check out our brochure here: EVP - 1 (  )

#INDMP

We care passionately for our waterways, and as importantly, for those who look after and…