Gas mains layer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through an intermediate apprenticeship as a gas industry network operative.

This will usually take 2 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You could apply directly to work as a trainee gas mains layer. Most employers will expect you to have 3 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, maths and science or engineering.

Experience and qualifications in construction, roadworks, building services engineering or plumbing can be helpful.

You could also move into mains laying from working with another utility, like water.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of building and construction
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of maths
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• persistence and determination
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to work well with your hands
• customer service skills
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• observation and recording skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to analyse quality or performance

What you'll do:

Gas mains layers install and maintain pipelines that supply homes and businesses with gas.

In your day-to-day duties you may:

• check technical drawings and plans to trace where you need to dig
• dig holes by hand or use mechanical digging equipment
• lay or repair pipes and mains systems
• connect homes and businesses to the network
• install and maintain gas pressure control equipment
• respond to emergency gas escapes
• fill in holes and repair pavements and gardens at the end of a job

Environment : Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £26,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

41 - 43 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends on shifts

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a team leader or site supervisor.

With further training you could move into gas mains or wider utility engineering work, or roadworks and construction.