Roadworker​/Chargehand

The Highways team, part of the Highways & Waste service, are responsible for ensuring that Gateshead is a safe and attractive place in which people can live, work and spend free time. From waste strategy, including collection and recycling to the maintenance of our highways and street lighting. You've probably also noticed significant investment in the restoration of the Tyne Bridge, and our Highways team continue to play a pivotal role in that restoration project of a local landmark.

Take charge of projects that make a visible difference. The Road worker / Chargehand will work flexibly and responsively while supervising teams delivering a wide range of highways construction and maintenance activities. The role ensures that works orders and client requirements are met on time, plant and materials are available and fit for purpose, and that all tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to required standards.

A core focus is maintaining excellent site housekeeping, upholding Health & Safety compliance, and supporting effective coordination between employees, contractors, and the Assistant Manager.

• Assist the Assistant Manager in planning, coordinating, and supervising staff and contractors delivering highways construction and maintenance works.
• Lead teams undertaking a broad range of highways tasks, including maintenance, paving, kerbing, drainage, VRS installation, concrete works, street furniture installation, and associated construction activities.
• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety requirements, including RAMS, dynamic risk assessments, PPE, equipment safety, and reporting all H&S issues appropriately.
• Oversee the availability, safe operation, and correct use of plant, machinery, tools, and materials needed for daily site activities.
• Set out and manage traffic and pedestrian management systems to support safe and efficient site operation.
• Interpret and work from technical plans, drawings, and specifications to deliver work accurately and to agreed standards.
• Monitor and maintain structured records, including goods and service delivery orders, programme progress, and site documentation in line with procedures.
• Support and guide employees and contractors, offering instruction, motivation, and basic training to ensure successful task completion.
• Act as a point of contact on site, liaising with contractors, employees, and members of the public to resolve issues and maintain positive communication.

• NVQ or equivalent in relevant trade background.
• Current CSCS Health and Safety Compliance Card or equivalent.
• Hold relevant skill and H&S qualifications to operate relevant plant and machinery.
• Hold or be willing to work towards Streetworks, Water Jetting, Trenching & Shoring, Confined Spaces.
• Sling Loading from a vehicle, or be willing to work towards.
• A broad knowledge of highways works including traffic management, drainage, street lighting and signage.
• Trade background with relevant on‑site work experience ideally with some experience of supervising others.
• Experience of working with a wide range of highways materials.
• Experience of operating specialist plant and machinery.
• Working in a self‑disciplined manner to tight deadlines whilst maintaining a high standard of workmanship.
• Effective communication with clients to ensure specification and requirements are met.
• Experience of working to the requirements of the highways permit scheme.

Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.

• Competitive Salary:
  We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme:
  We don't just offer a great salary - we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides:
• Generous Annual Leave:
  Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Learning & Development:
  Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support:
  From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme:
  Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme:
  Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions - a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice:
  Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services - plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).