Grab/Cutter Operator (2 Year FTC)

Bouygues Civil Works Division

Specialists in civil engineering and complex structures, delivering major infrastructure and land-use projects worldwide. As part of Bouygues Travaux Publics, we are committed to sustainable construction, diversity, and welcoming talent from all backgrounds.

About The Role We are seeking for an experienced Grab/Cutter Operator to join the Lower Thames Crossing project, supporting the delivery of one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure schemes.

This role is suited to a highly experienced specialist foundations professional with strong expertise in diaphragm wall, piling, hydromill, grab, and deep foundation operations on complex civil engineering projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in safely delivering technically demanding geotechnical and underground works within a major infrastructure environment.

We are looking for someone who combines hands-on operational capability with strong site awareness, leadership, and a proactive approach to health, safety, and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate specialist foundation equipment including hydromill, grab, and piling rigs
• Support and supervise diaphragm wall and deep foundation operations
• Deliver works safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications
• Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and subcontractors on site activities
• Monitor excavation quality, verticality, slurry management, and reinforcement installation
• Carry out daily equipment checks and basic maintenance coordination
• Ensure compliance with all HSE procedures and site safety requirements
• Support productivity targets while maintaining high technical standards
• Assist with troubleshooting operational and technical site issues
• Contribute to accurate reporting and communication across shifts and work fronts

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience on major infrastructure, tunnelling, rail, underground, marine, or large-scale civil engineering projects.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience in diaphragm wall and deep foundation works
• Experience operating hydromill and/or grab systems
• Background within piling and geotechnical operations
• Experience working on large infrastructure or heavy civil engineering projects
• Strong understanding of safe lifting, excavation, and slurry operations
• Ability to work effectively within multicultural project teams
• Strong awareness of QA/QC and HSE requirements on major projects

Desirable Experience

• Experience on rail, metro, tunnel, marine, dam, or underground projects
• Previous international project exposure
• Experience supervising crews or acting as foreman/operator supervisor
• Bentonite and polymer slurry experience
• Exposure to cut-off wall construction

Qualifications & Certifications

• Relevant operator tickets/certifications
• CPCS / NPORS or equivalent preferred
• SMSTS / SSSTS advantageous
• CSCS card preferred
• Valid right to work in the UK or willingness to relocate/sponsor discussion where applicable

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on one of the UK’s landmark infrastructure projects
• Long-term project stability
• Collaborative international project environment
• Competitive salary and package
• Career progression within specialist foundations and major civil engineering works

VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy is available upon request. Interested or want to learn more? Apply now or get in touch.