Purpose of the role
We have some great opportunities for Highways Maintenance Operatives (Drainage) to join the Cheshire West and Chester contract based at either one of our depots, CH2 4EX, Guilden Sutton or CW7 2RB, Winsford. To maintain and cleanse the Cheshire West & Chester drainage network, working from supervisor‑issued instructions to deliver high‑quality work on time. You’ll represent Colas Ltd professionally at all times while strictly adhering to all safety, site, and permitting regulations.
Split Shift Pattern
- 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
- 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Alternating weekly shifts (early / late)
- Occasional Saturday work required
- Enhanced pay:
- Evenings (6pm–10pm, Mon–Fri)
- Overtime rates for Saturdays
Main Responsibilities
- Carry out drainage cleansing and maintenance works
- Undertake high‑pressure water jetting safely and to specification
- Operate mechanical plant and equipment
- Clear ditches, sites, vegetation, and undergrowth
- Perform manual excavation (trial holes, hard materials, shovelling)
- Replace gratings in footways and carriageways
- Install temporary and permanent signage
- Set up traffic and pedestrian management systems
- Assist with emergency response and call‑out rota
- Load and unload materials as required
- Take before and after photos of completed works
- Complete job sheets and return paperwork on time
- Work safely in line with Health & Safety regulations, risk assessments, and method statements
- Comply with Traffic Management Act permitting requirements
- Report vehicle and plant defects promptly
- Deliver work efficiently to required quality standards
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will have experience in drainage or reactive maintenance, ideally within highways or emergency response. It is essential that you hold a Category C Driving Licence, CSCS card, Driver CPC, NHSS 12D T1/T2. Experience with high pressure jetting, familiarity of Whale Tankers and basic IT skills are desirable. You should bring strong communication, teamwork, and organisational skills. A proactive, self‑motivated approach, with the ability to prioritise, work under pressure, maintain attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and develop is essential.
Package Description
- A salary between £29,868.00 and £30,386.00 (plus rates for evening and Saturday work)
- Our Colas Pension Scheme has combined contributions of up to 10%
- Life Assurance Scheme which is x4 basic salary
- 21 days annual leave per year + Public Holidays
- Holiday Purchase & Selling Scheme
- Hybrid Working Scheme (dependent on the role)
- Family‑Friendly Benefits, including Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay
- Opportunities to study towards a fully funded Professional Qualification
- Ongoing personal / professional development
- Discounts on car leasing, holidays, cinema tickets, restaurants and much more through our online employee benefits portal
Colas Ltd is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that mirrors the communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds.
