Overview
Site Operative Jobs in Carlisle at RH Irving Construction Ltd
Join Our Team as a Site Operative
About RHI Construction Ltd
RHI Construction Ltd has built a legacy of excellence over the past 50 years, with our head office in Longtown, Carlisle. From our origins as specialists in civils and groundworks, we’ve evolved into a leading construction contractor operating across Northern England and Southern Scotland. Our diverse portfolio spans both civils and construction, including housing developments, utility works, refurbishments, new builds, steel frame construction, motorway infrastructure, and water-related projects.
Our continued success is built on delivering high-quality projects, maintaining safe working practices, and investing in the people who make it all happen. As we grow, we’re looking to expand our team of Site Operatives to help us meet increasing demand across the region.
The Role
We’re seeking reliable, hardworking, and hands-on Site Operatives to support civils projects including drainage, ducting, concrete works, and excavation.
You’ll be an essential member of a site team that values safe working, good communication, and teamwork.
Applicants with experience in drainage, reinstatement, utility works, or infrastructure groundworks will be particularly well suited. However, we also welcome those new to the industry who are keen to learn and progress in this field.
What You’ll Be Doing
· Completing essential groundworks such as excavations, ducting, drainage, foundations, concrete pours, and backfilling.
· Setting up and maintaining safe work areas including fencing, signage, and access routes.
· Assisting with tool and plant operations (training provided where needed).
· Supporting plant operatives, tradespeople, and gangers to meet daily goals.
· Following Method Statements, Risk Assessments, and instructions from supervisors.
· Contributing to efficient, productive and tidy site operations.
Location, Hours & Travel
· Site hours vary depending on the contract and location.
· Projects may include occasional work away from home.
· Working-away and nightly allowances apply depending on project.
· Travel is provided and most successful candidates will be picked up and dropped by a company vehicle.
Pay & Benefits
· Competitive hourly pay (based on experience and qualifications).
· 28 days paid holiday including bank holidays.
· Company pension scheme.
· Personalised training plan from day one.
· CSCS and CPCS provided for inexperienced candidates upon offer.
Becoming a Skilled Operative
We invest in every recruit to help them become a safe, confident, and effective Site Operative. Training is structured, with support at every stage. You’ll be paired with experienced supervisors and receive all necessary safety and industry-specific training to hit the ground running.
We place strong emphasis on developing operatives who take ownership, understand site processes, and play a key role in project delivery.
Career Progression
We believe in rewarding hard work, reliability, and a positive attitude with real opportunities for growth. Many of our team members have progressed from entry-level roles into positions such as Ganger, Supervisor, and Site Manager.
For the right candidate, there is a clear path to long-term career development. We support this through structured training, mentoring, and qualifications including NVQs, SSSTS, SMSTS, IOSH, and NEBOSH. If you’re committed, proactive, and eager to learn, we’ll invest in helping you build a successful career in construction.
Long Service & Company Culture
RHI has one of the highest staff retention rates in our industry, with over a third of our employees staying 5 years or more. Many have gone on to reach milestones of 10, 15, and even 20+ years of continuous service. Long Service Awards are an annual highlight and reflect the value we place on loyalty, progression, and shared success.
We maintain a strong, inclusive team culture where effort is recognised, wellbeing is supported, and opportunity is open to everyone.
How to Apply
To take the next step in your groundworks career, send your CV and a brief introduction to:
[email protected]
Note for Recruitment Agencies:
We prefer to hire directly. We do not accept speculative CVs from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable – please direct all queries to Nathan Thompson, HR Manager.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £15.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company car
- Company pension
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Title: Site Operative
Company: RH Irving Construction Ltd
Location: Carlisle
