What is a Highways Maintenance Operative? Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path | UK Career Advice

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What is a Highways Maintenance Operative?

As a Highways Maintenance Operative in the UK, you'll be responsible for constructing, repairing, and maintaining roads to ensure safe and efficient transportation. Your tasks may include laying paving slabs, kerbstones, and forming pavements or street gutters to build functional and durable roadways.

Skills

Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures in road construction and maintenance
Ability to operate and maintain various types of machinery and equipment used in road construction and maintenance
Proficiency in manual labor tasks such as digging, lifting, and carrying heavy materials
Basic understanding of engineering principles and construction techniques
Effective communication skills to work collaboratively with team members and communicate with the public
Flexibility to work in various weather conditions and adapt to changing work schedules
Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
Physical fitness and stamina to work long hours and perform physically demanding tasks
Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues that arise during construction and maintenance projects
Time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines

Qualifications & Education

No academic qualifications required
On-the-job training provided
Trained operative required at all sites
Trained operatives must attend accredited assessment centres
NVQs/SVQs available at Levels 1 and 2 in Highway Maintenance and Road Building

Career Path

Highways Maintenance Operative

Highways Maintenance Supervisor

Highways Maintenance Manager

Highways Maintenance Director

Roads Inspector

Roads Engineer

Transportation Planner

Traffic Management Operative

Traffic Management Supervisor

Traffic Management Manager

Construction Worker

Construction Site Supervisor

Construction Project Manager

Civil Engineering Technician

Civil Engineer

Infrastructure Project Manager

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a highways operative do?

A highways maintenance operative in the UK is responsible for tasks such as installing and removing road signs, barriers, fencing, and guard rails, as well as maintaining and repairing drainage systems and other highway infrastructure. They may also be involved in traffic counting and other related duties.

What qualifications do I need to be a highway maintenance?

To be a highway maintenance operative in the UK, you typically need a Level 2 Construction Diploma in Highway Maintenance, an NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Construction, Level 1 Functional Skills, and personal learning and thinking skills.

Highways Maintenance Operative: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

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