Trainee Operative

Start: July 2026 (college programme begins September/October 2026)

Contract: Full-time, 45 hours per week

VolkerLaser repairs, strengthens and waterproofs concrete and steel structures, offering a tailored package of specialist works to clients across the UK. Our structural solutions include bridge deck waterproofing, expansion joints, concrete repair and cathodic protection works, steel repair and strengthening work, carbon fibre and temporary works, jacking and bearing replacement. We also provide specialist lightweight decking and access solutions, as well as being specialists in long bridge and cable refurbishment.

Learn more about our people programme by clicking here.

About the role

Learning about what we do will be really exciting and this is the ideal opportunity if you are looking for your first role in the construction industry.

We're looking to strengthen our business by recruiting an early careers cohort in 2026 and have an exciting opportunity for a number of Trainee Operatives to join our growing project teams across the UK.

This is a full-time role where you'll learn on the job while working towards a nationally recognised Level 2 apprenticeship in Highways Maintenance, delivered in partnership with the CITB Construction College.

You'll join an operational project team and develop practical skills through a mix of real site experience and structured training. Apprenticeships combine work with study, including paid time during your working hours for training and learning.

Find a full job description here. You can also click here for your training plan.

No previous construction experience is required - full training and support will be provided.

What you'll be doing

• Working alongside experienced operatives to support project activities
• Learning how to carry out tasks safely and to the required standard
• Using tools, plant and equipment safely (with training and authorisation)
• Attending CITB training blocks and applying what you learn back on site
• Following health, safety, wellbeing and environmental procedures
• Keeping work areas tidy and safe
• Reporting hazards, near misses or unsafe conditions
• Representing VolkerLaser professionally on site

About you

We're looking for someone reliable, motivated and keen to learn, who enjoys practical, outdoor work and working as part of a team.

You'll need

• An interest in construction or working outdoors
• A positive attitude, good timekeeping and a strong focus on safety
• Commitment to attending and completing CITB training as scheduled
• Willingness to obtain a CSCS card if you don't already have one
• Ability to travel to depot and site locations as required. The role of trainee operative will be based on a site that may not be close to your home and you could be based on any VolkerLaser site across the UK. All travel and hotel accommodation costs will be paid for.
• A driving licence is not required at application stage, but you must be willing to work towards a full UK driving licence during the apprenticeship, as it will be needed for operational duties

Maths and English

If you are between the ages of 16 - 18 years old you will require a minimum of GCSE Level 3 in Maths and English

Training and development

You'll complete the Highways Maintenance Operative - Level 2 apprenticeship. You'll be given paid time during your working week for training and study (a minimum of 20% off-the-job learning), alongside hands-on experience on site.

Why work for us?

VolkerLaser is under the umbrella of VolkerWessels UK which is a multidisciplinary contractor that delivers innovative engineering solutions across the civil engineering and construction sectors including rail, highways, airport, marine, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure.

• By utilising the specialist skills of each business unit within VolkerWessels UK, VolkerLaser are able to ensure our staff provide unrivalled resources and expertise to our clients.
• A permanent job with structured training and support
• A nationally recognised Level 2 apprenticeship qualification (equivalent to GCSE level)
• Real site experience, mentoring and clear progression opportunities as you develop

Application process

If you feel this could be the role for you, please email to request a full information pack and application form.

Fairness, inclusion and respect

We believe in pushing boundaries in the pursuit of fairness, inclusion and respect. So, our teams can be comfortable that, whatever their background, VolkerWessels UK is a place whe