Traffic Management Operative

Company: CLT LONG-TERM CONTRACTS

Location: Portsmouth

Country: United Kingdom

Type of Contract: Permanent

Publication Date: 23 Feb 2026

Colas Ltd are a UK subsidiary of the global Colas Group, which operates in over 50 countries worldwide and employs over 55,000 people including over 1500 in the UK across multiple sites. We are specialists in highways construction and have been involved in large-scale UK and international construction projects within the highways, airfields, and marine sectors as well as offering highways maintenance services and manufacturing our own innovative surfacing products. We hold a 'Gold Investor in People' award for continuously developing and rewarding our employees, offering excellent career potential.

https://youtu.be/UfW2V6iUHpw

Purpose of the role

We are looking for a Traffic Management Operative (TMO) and play a key part in keeping road users and workers safe across Portsmouth. This role is based at our Portsmouth depot, PO6 1TA.

As a TMO, you’ll be responsible for installing, maintaining, and removing temporary traffic management systems such as cones, signs, barriers, and traffic control devices. You'll be working as part of a close-knit team ensuring that all operations run smoothly and safely, in line with current regulations.

Main Responsibilities

As a Traffic Management Operative your duties will include but not be limited to the following:

Installation & Removal of traffic management systems including signage, barriers, cones, and temporary lights.
Maintenance of traffic control equipment – inspecting, repairing, or replacing as required.
Traffic Flow Control using stop/go systems or temporary traffic lights.
Safety Compliance by following health & safety procedures and legislation at all times.
Site Monitoring to check for hazards and ensure the effectiveness of traffic systems.
Communication with team members, supervisors, and external stakeholders.
Record Keeping – complete relevant paperwork and documentation accurately.
Emergency Response to traffic incidents, helping manage the situation efficiently.
Interpretation of Site Drawings & Traffic Management Plans to set up traffic systems correctly

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have:

Valid UK driving licence.
Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling and outdoor work.
Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Attention to detail and commitment to safety.
Willingness to work flexible shifts, including nights and weekends, and be part of a call-out rota.

Desirable (but not essential – training provided):

HGV Class 2 licence.
Lantra 12D or 12AB Traffic Management qualifications.
Previous experience working within various types of traffic management setups.

Package Description

Here at Colas, we offer a great total compensation package, including:

A salary of 26,000
Monthly paid
Overtime rates:

Monday to Friday: 1.25x
Saturday & Sunday: 1.5x

Standby: £130 per week plus call-out hours.
Our Colas Pension Scheme has combined contributions of up to 10%
Life Assurance Scheme which is x4 basic salary
21 days annual leave per year + Public Holidays
Holiday Purchase & Selling Scheme
Hybrid Working Scheme (dependent on the role)
Opportunities to study towards a fully funded Professional Qualification
Ongoing personal / professional development
Discounts on car leasing, holidays, cinema tickets, restaurants and much more through our online employee benefits portal

At Colas, our culture is guided by four core values: Respect, Commitment, Pioneering, and Sharing. These values shape how we work, collaborate, and grow together. We believe that respect is the foundation of every relationship. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we foster fairness, transparency, and inclusion within our teams and with our clients, communities, and partners. Commitment means dedicating ourselves fully to everything we do. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to make a meaningful impact. With a pioneering spirit, we prioritise bold innovation over blind ambition. We welcome new ideas, invest in our people, and work to deliver sustainable infrastructure solutions that shape the future. Through sharing, we build trust and solidarity, encouraging collaboration and growth at all levels of the business.

Colas Ltd is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that mirrors the communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you want a workplace where your voice is valued and your potential is developed, Colas is the right choice.

Note to Recruitment Agencies

In line with our Company Policy, Colas Ltd has a preference for direct hiring and we will reach out to our PSL (Preferred Suppliers List) agencies if the role is eligible for release. We do not accept speculative CVs from agencies. If a speculative CV is sent, no fee will be applicable.