Location
Southall, London & South East
Type
Permanent, Annualised Hours
Salary (£)
£28,154 plus £4,000 Inner London Allowance and benefits
About Canal & River Trust
Canal & River Trust looks after 2,000 miles of historic canals, rivers, docks, and reservoirs across the UK. They preserve heritage sites and protect one of the country’s largest collections of historic buildings for future generations. Working here means being part of a team passionate about keeping waterways vibrant and accessible for millions to enjoy every day.
Job details
Benefits
- Salary progression plan so your pay grows with your skills and experience
- £4,000 Inner London Allowance on top of base salary
- Competitive contributory pension scheme where the Trust doubles your contribution up to 10%
- 28 days holiday with additional increases based on years of service
- £200 personal learning award to boost your development yearly
- Paid volunteering leave to give back to local communities
- Free access to specialist counselling covering health, finances, and wellbeing
- Discounts on stores, holidays, and even fishing across the canal network
Requirements
- Apprenticeship or equivalent experience such as City & Guilds Level II or NVQ Level II
- Skilled in Bricklaying or Carpentry with hands-on plant and equipment experience
- Experience operating lifting plant, chainsaws, and power tools safely
- Full UK driving licence ready to travel across London & South East on call
- Positive, flexible attitude with a willingness to learn new skills on the job
Salary Details
Starts at £28,154 plus £4,000 Inner London Allowance. Salary progression rewards growing skills and contribution.
About the Role
This role is perfect if you want to work outdoors maintaining and repairing historic canal infrastructure. As a Craft Operative, you will be part of a multi-skilled team preserving locks, bridges, and towpaths to keep the waterways flowing smoothly. Your work directly impacts the safety, heritage, and enjoyment of the canal network for today and future generations. Expect to travel across the London & South East region and work flexibly on a rota system including weekends and public holidays.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out maintenance and repairs that keep waterways safe and accessible, often using sensitive heritage and environmental methods to protect these historic sites
- Use brickwork and joinery skills to manufacture and refurbish canal infrastructure with precision and care
- Operate machinery and tools following strict safety standards, helping maintain the network’s integrity
- Keep personal and workshop equipment in top condition to ensure work quality and safety
- Respond promptly to emergencies and customer needs to maintain trust in the network
- Work flexibly across the region to deliver priority projects where they are most needed
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This role requires a DBS check to protect the Trust’s people and assets.
Certificate of Sponsorship
Canal & River Trust is registered to issue Certificates of Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route as per UK Home Office regulations but this role is not eligible for sponsorship.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Trust welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves. Every candidate will be treated fairly and assessed on skills and merit alone.
Employer Details
- Company Name: Canal & River Trust
- Address: Adelaide Yard, Southall, London
- Contact: CRT.recruitment@canalrivertrust.org.uk
Reference Number
2025-8073
How To Apply
Ready to start a rewarding career protecting the UK’s waterways? Click Apply Now and complete the application with your current CV. Don’t wait as this opportunity might close early once enough suitable applicants come in.
Looking for a supportive work environment with real impact? Why not join a team that makes a difference every day? Apply today.
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