Jet vac operator job responsibilities

At Lanes Group, our jet vac operator jobs involve carrying out reactive emergency works, as well as pre-planned maintenance projects, at sites across the country as and when the need arises.

Jet vac technology is used to remove blockages, sewage, grease, debris and silt from various waterways, vacuuming up material at a rate of 1,000 cubic feet per minute. This powerful equipment needs to be handled carefully and responsibly, with suitable safe zones established and all the associated risks managed, especially when working in scenarios where severe flooding has occurred.

Because our jet vac services are often relied upon by clients facing extreme emergencies and serious problems, operators will need to be able to work efficiently and safely, while delivering a high standard of customer service to those facing difficult situations. Drainage and flooding problems can often be extremely distressing for those affected, and our customers depend on us to handle their cases with empathy, patience and supportiveness.

The 24/7 nature of our service offering also means that staff will be included in an on-call rota to ensure there’s always someone available to respond to an emergency callout at short notice.

Salary and working conditions

Lanes Group can offer a variety of shift patterns for our jet vac operator jobs to accommodate different working styles, with pay rates scaling according to experience levels, and opportunities for overtime work available. This means that wherever you’re based in the UK, you’ll be able to access a competitive salary, with prospects for earning more.

What’s more, you’ll soon find that Lanes is an employer that prides itself on going above and beyond to provide all staff members with perks and benefits to support long-term job satisfaction. As such, jet vac operators will receive access to an optional company-wide health scheme, a workplace pension and childcare vouchers, with full-time employees eligible for 20 days of paid leave per year, plus bank holidays.

Additionally, we offer free car parking available across 80% of our network of depots and offices, and can guarantee a friendly, supportive workplace that encourages all employees to feel like valued components of a well-oiled team.

Skills, qualifications and experience

Operating the large vehicles we use in our jet vacuumation work requires a certain degree of expertise, so applicants for jet vac operator jobs will be expected to possess at least a Class 2 HGV driving licence, as well as a completed Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and an up-to-date Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.

Prior experience in the use of high-pressure jetting and vacuuming units would also be advantageous, as would a past history of working on sewage treatment projects; however, none of these are essential, as Lanes Group is able to provide capable candidates with the training they need to get up to speed on the specifics and procedures involved in operating our jet vac equipment.

This means that the role could be an ideal opportunity for professionals with transferable HGV driving skills - for example, hauliers and other commercial drivers - who are looking to make a fresh start in an exciting new field. We also strive to be a forces-friendly employer, so we welcome veterans and reservists who can possess transferable skills and a willingness to get involved in manual work on a day-to-day basis.

Future prospects

Joining Lanes Group in a jet vac operator job offers a broad range of dynamic career opportunities, as we are an organisation that prides itself on investing in talent and helping workers achieve their potential over an extended period.

Rather than simply taking a one-off gig, you’ll be able to work your way along a defined long-term training pathway, developing your skills over time and potentially moving into more advanced senior roles. We currently employ more than 2,200 people across our 25 regional offices and utility hubs throughout England, Scotland and Wales, so staff will also have the opportunity to move around the UK without having to leave the Lanes family.

Offering this kind of lasting job security and satisfaction is a key aspect of what’s made Lanes Group the UK’s leading privately owned specialist drainage contractor. What’s more, we work hard to be an equal opportunities employer, meaning applications from underrepresented areas of the community are welcomed. No matter what your background, you will never face unnecessary barriers to a successful Lanes career.