Main Responsibilities:

• Operating telehandlers safely and efficiently on construction sites
• Moving and lifting heavy materials, such as steel, concrete, and lumber
• Placing materials at specified locations, following site plans and instructions
• Conducting daily inspections and basic maintenance on telehandlers
• Adhering to all safety regulations and guidelines
• Communicating effectively with site supervisors and team members

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Valid telehandler operator certification (CPCS or NPORS)
• Proficiency in operating various types of telehandlers
• Excellent spatial awareness and depth perception
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to read and interpret site plans and drawings
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment
• Flexibility to work on different construction projects as needed

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating telehandlers in construction settings
• Familiarity with construction site practices and procedures
• Proven track record of safe and efficient telehandler operation

Pay Rates for Telehandler Positions in Plymouth:

• Entry-level telehandler operators: £14 – £16 per hour
• Experienced telehandler operators: £16 – £20 per hour
• Highly skilled telehandler operators: £20 – £25 per hour

Please note that pay rates may vary depending on the specific project, employer, and the candidate’s level of experience and qualifications.

What is a Telehandler

A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler, teleporter, or boom lift, is a versatile piece of construction machinery used for lifting, moving, and placing materials. It has a telescoping boom that can extend forwards and upwards from the vehicle, with attachments like forks, buckets, or winches on the end. This allows it to function as a cross between a forklift and a crane.

Telehandlers are used across many industries, including construction, agriculture, warehousing, and mining. They can lift and place heavy palletized materials, move dirt and debris, handle pipe and steel, or place bricks and other masonry. The extendable boom and different attachment options make them very flexible for all kinds of lifting and material handling tasks.

Operating a telehandler requires specialized training and certification. Operators need to understand the machine’s load charts, lifting capacities at different boom lengths and angles, and safe operating procedures. Telehandlers have outriggers and stabilizers to prevent tipping, and many have frame leveling to operate on uneven terrain. Proper use of these features is critical for safe lifting.

Opportunities for Telehandler Operators in Plymouth

Plymouth, on the south coast of Devon, England, has a strong economy with opportunities for skilled telehandler operators. The city and surrounding area have ongoing commercial, residential, and infrastructure construction, which drives demand for lifting equipment and qualified operators.

According to employment data, construction is a top five industry in Plymouth, employing over 5% of the workforce. With population growth and urban development, new building construction is expected to continue. Large projects like the Sherford New Town, Millbay regeneration, and Oceansgate Marine Industrial Park all require telehandlers for material handling.

Beyond construction, Plymouth also has an extensive maritime industry, including shipyards, ferry ports, and marinas. Telehandlers are used for boat handling, loading and unloading cargo, and moving equipment in these facilities. The city’s manufacturing sector, which includes aerospace and defense companies, also uses heavy material handling equipment like telehandlers in their operations and supply chains.

For skilled operators, this ongoing demand can translate into good job opportunities with construction firms, equipment rental companies, and other industrial employers in the Plymouth area. Experience in construction or industrial environments, as well as specific telehandler operator certification, improves employment prospects.

Training and Certification for Telehandler Operators

Safe and efficient telehandler operation requires both initial and ongoing training. In the UK, there are several routes to becoming a certified telehandler operator, which is generally required for employment.

The most common training is through an accredited course leading to a CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme) card. The CPCS is operated by NOCN Job Cards and is widely recognized by employers. Training includes both classroom theory and practical instruction on a telehandler, covering pre-use checks, safe operating methods, lifting and placing loads, shut down procedures, and relevant regulations.

Basic CPCS telehandler training typically takes 3-5 days and includes a theory test and practical test. Upon passing, operators receive a CPCS red Trained Operator card, valid for two years. To upgrade to the blue Competence card, operators must complete additional workplace experience and assessment, demonstrating competence over time.

There are also more intensive NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) courses available, which combine CPCS training with on-site assessment to achieve a Level 2 NVQ in Plant Operations. This more comprehensive qualification can improve employability and may be required for some jobs.

For those new to the industry, some employers may offer apprenticeships that include telehandler training. These often combine on-the-job learning with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to earn while gaining qualifications. The CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) is a good resource for finding registered telehandler apprenticeships.

It’s important to note that certification is only the beginning. Telehandler operators need to commit to ongoing learning and skills development throughout their careers. This can include equipment-specific training from manufacturers, updating safety knowledge, and cross-training on different attachment types. Staying current helps operators work more safely and efficiently, and makes them more valuable to employers.

Finding Telehandler Jobs in Plymouth

For qualified telehandler operators, there are several ways to find job opportunities in the Plymouth area. One of the best is through direct contact with local employers. Construction firms, equipment rental companies, shipyards, and manufacturers are all potential employers of telehandler operators.

Checking job boards and recruitment websites is also effective. Sites like Indeed, Reed, and Construction Jobs typically have telehandler operator listings, some specific to the Plymouth area. It’s also worth looking at specialist construction recruitment agencies, who may have exclusive contracts with major local employers.

Networking is another valuable tool. Attending local construction or trades events, or joining industry associations, can provide contacts and insider knowledge of upcoming projects and hiring needs. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and the Construction Plant-hire Association are two relevant professional bodies.

For those just starting out, registering with the CITB can give access to apprenticeship opportunities. They work with local employers and training providers to match candidates to available apprenticeship positions, including those involving telehandler operation.

When applying for jobs, it’s important to highlight relevant skills and experience. This includes not just telehandler certification, but also any related construction, industrial or material handling background. Familiarity with health and safety practices, as well as a good attitude to teamwork and learning, are also valued by employers.

Working as a Telehandler Operator in Plymouth

Working as a telehandler operator in Plymouth can be a rewarding career for those who enjoy practical work and being part of a team. It’s a physically active job that involves operating machinery, as well as working closely with other tradespeople like scaffolders, steel erectors, and general laborers.

Typical duties include daily equipment checks, planning lifts, safely maneuvering the telehandler, attaching and detaching loads, and basic maintenance. Operators need to be able to interpret site plans, follow verbal instructions, and communicate effectively with supervisors and other workers.

Work environments can vary, from outdoor construction sites to indoor warehouses or factories. Plymouth’s maritime climate means operators may face wet or windy conditions at times. Safety is always the top priority, so proper use of personal protective equipment and adherence to site rules is essential.

Pay rates for telehandler operators in Plymouth are generally in line with national averages. According to data from Indeed, the average annual salary for a telehandler operator in the UK is around £32,000. More experienced operators, or those with additional NVQ qualifications, may command higher rates.

Many jobs are full-time and may involve early starts, but there are also opportunities for part-time or flexible work. Some projects may require shift work or overtime to meet deadlines. Agency work is also common, allowing operators to work for different clients on shorter-term contracts.

Career progression for telehandler operators often involves cross-training on other heavy equipment, like excavators or cranes. Moving into supervisory roles, like site foreman or plant manager, is possible with experience and further qualifications in construction management.

The Future of Telehandler Operation in Plymouth

Looking forward, the demand for skilled telehandler operators in Plymouth is likely to remain strong. The city’s ongoing growth and development, particularly in the construction and maritime sectors, will continue to drive need for material handling equipment and qualified operators.

Technological advancements are also shaping the future of the role. Newer telehandlers are incorporating more advanced safety features, like load sensors, stability controls, and camera systems. Some manufacturers are even developing semi-autonomous or remote-controlled machines for use in hazardous environments.

Operators will need to stay current with these technologies through ongoing training. There may also be opportunities for those with IT skills to specialize in using these advanced systems. However, the core skills of safe operation, problem-solving, and teamwork will remain essential.

The shift towards more sustainable construction methods may also impact telehandler operation. As the industry moves to reduce emissions and waste, there may be a greater focus on efficient material handling and waste reduction. Operators who can work in an environmentally conscious way will be well-placed for the future.

Despite potential changes, the fundamental role of the telehandler operator as a key part of the construction and industrial workforce in Plymouth looks set to endure. For those with the skills, qualifications, and work ethic, it can provide a stable and satisfying career path in this dynamic coastal city.

FAQs – Find Telehandler Positions in Plymouth with Team Quick Placement

What qualifications are required for telehandler positions in Plymouth?

Typically, a valid telehandler license and experience operating telehandlers are essential. Some employers may also require a forklift license, a valid driver’s license, and a good safety record. Additional certifications, such as CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) or CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme), may be beneficial.

What are the primary responsibilities of a telehandler operator in Plymouth?

Telehandler operators are responsible for safely operating the machinery to move, lift, and place materials on construction sites, warehouses, or industrial settings. They must conduct pre-use inspections, maintain the equipment, and follow all safety guidelines and regulations. Operators may also be required to work closely with other team members and communicate effectively.

What is the average salary for telehandler positions in Plymouth?

The average salary for telehandler operators in Plymouth ranges from £25,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and the specific employer. Some positions may offer additional benefits, such as overtime pay, pension schemes, or health insurance.

Are telehandler positions in Plymouth full-time or part-time?

Most telehandler positions in Plymouth are full-time, typically involving 40 hours per week. However, some employers may offer part-time or flexible working arrangements, depending on the project requirements and the operator’s availability. Seasonal or temporary positions may also be available, particularly in the construction industry.

What career advancement opportunities are available for telehandler operators in Plymouth?

Experienced telehandler operators in Plymouth may have the opportunity to progress to supervisory or management roles, such as site supervisor or plant manager. Operators can also expand their skills by obtaining additional certifications or licenses for other heavy machinery, such as cranes or excavators, which can lead to higher-paying positions or specialization in specific industries.