Craft Operative

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. Working Hours & Travel 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.

• 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 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: ( )