Special Projects Civils Operative

At Wessex Internet, we're transforming rural communities by delivering ultrafast full fibre broadband across the South West. As our network continues to grow, we're looking for a Rural Civils Operative to join our Special Projects Team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with plant operating or civils experience who enjoys working outdoors and wants to be part of a team delivering specialist fibre infrastructure projects using Vibratory Mole Plough and Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) techniques.

What's different about this role?

Unlike traditional civils roles, you'll be working on some of our most specialist network build projects, operating machinery that allows us to install fibre with minimal disruption across rural landscapes.

You'll primarily operate a 2.7-tonne Kubota excavator, supporting our specialist installation teams while developing your skills in innovative construction methods.

What you'll be doing

• Operating excavation machinery to support fibre installations.
• Excavating for fibre ducts, chambers and telecommunications infrastructure.
• Supporting our Vibratory Mole Plough and Directional Drilling teams.
• Carrying out daily checks and basic maintenance of plant and equipment.
• Working safely and following company procedures at all times.
• Identifying site issues and helping the team overcome challenges.
• Reporting hazards, accidents and near misses.
• Supporting colleagues and new team members to deliver high-quality work.

What we're looking for

You'll be someone who enjoys practical, hands on work and takes pride in delivering a high standard of work.

Essential

• Experience operating plant or excavation machinery.
• Experience within civils, utilities, telecommunications, construction or agricultural environments.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Strong commitment to health and safety.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Full UK manual driving licence.

Desirable

• Excavator competency or CPCS/NPORS tickets.
• Experience excavating for cable, duct or pipe installations.
• Experience working on rural or agricultural land.
• Telecommunications or utilities experience.

Seasonal Working Pattern

This role follows our annualised seasonal working pattern, designed to make the most of the busy construction season while offering greater flexibility during the winter.

Summer (approximately March-October)

• Monday to Friday
• 50-hour working week

Winter (approximately November-February)

• Monday to Thursday
• 36-hour working week
• Enjoy regular three-day weekends during the quieter months

Your salary is paid equally throughout the year, giving you consistent monthly earnings regardless of seasonal hours worked.

Occasional Friday training days and overtime may be required to support business needs.

Why join Wessex Internet?

You'll become part of a business that's changing how rural communities connect, while enjoying excellent benefits including:

• A starting salary between £31,000 - £36,000 dependent on experience.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Buy or sell up to five days annual leave.
• Private Medical Insurance.
• Company pension scheme.
• Enhanced family-friendly policies.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Cycle to Work and Tech Purchase Schemes.
• 75% discount on Wessex Internet broadband (where available).
• Ongoing training and career development.
• The opportunity to work with specialist equipment and build new skills.

About Wessex Internet

At Wessex Internet, we're passionate about connecting rural homes and businesses with ultrafast broadband. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we're committed to creating a safe, supportive and rewarding place to work.