When it comes to drainage and wastewater management, few tools in the Lanes Group toolkit are more powerful than the high-pressure water jet vacuum. Because this method is a proven way to clear most blockages, our jet vac operators are in constant demand from domestic and commercial clients alike. As a result, we’re always looking for new candidates to join us as jet vac operators at depots across the UK.
As a jet vac operator,you’ll use powerful, vehicle-mounted technology to handle a wide range of tasks such as gulley emptying and drain clearance, as well as tackling grease traps, soakaways, interceptors and septic tanks. It’s varied, practical work where you’ll be able to make an immediate impact and take real pride in a job well done.
This overview sets out the responsibilities of the position, along with the qualifications, skills and attributes that make a successful candidate. It also highlights the support and opportunities available to people who join us at Lanes.
If you’re interested in becoming part of the jet vac operations team at Lanes, get in touch with us today - we could have something to offer you!
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Key responsibilities of a jet vac operator
At Lanes Group, our jet vac services involve carrying out reactive emergency works, as well as pre-planned maintenance projects across business, regional infrastructure and private homes.
Using powerful jet vac technology, you’ll remove blockages, sewage, grease, debris and silt from waterways, vacuuming material at up to 1,000 cubic feet per minute. Safe operation is essential, so you’ll need to be a responsible person who is safety-minded and can work well with colleagues in challenging conditions, such as flooding.
Because clients often rely on us during emergencies, operators must work efficiently while providing a high standard of customer service. Many situations are stressful for those affected, so empathy, patience and professionalism are just as important as technical skill.
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, benefits and working conditions
Lanes Group offers 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.
We also invest in your growth, offering regular development opportunities and industry-recognised training that builds valuable technical skills. It’s a chance to develop a lasting career, gain skills that will always be in demand, and play a vital role in keeping communities moving.
Skills, qualifications and experience
To qualify for this role, you will need to possess a clean and valid Class 2 (Category C) 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 and a history of working on sewage treatment projects are always an advantage. However, they aren't essential, as Lanes Group will provide successful applicants 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 is 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 possess transferable skills and a willingness to get involved in manual work on a day-to-day basis.
Future prospects for drainage system operators
Joining Lanes Group in a jet vac operator job offers a broad range of dynamic career opportunities, as we are an organisation that invests in talent and helping workers achieve their potential over an extended period.
Over time, you’ll be able to work your way along a defined long-term training pathway, develop your skills over time and potentially move into more 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.
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