Sprayed concrete operators are increasingly in demand as contractors and recruitment agencies look for skilled workers in this relatively new technique.

A number of new projects, such as rail tunnels, are utilising the skills of sprayed concrete operators, who fire concrete on an excavated area in order to build up a lining and to protect and stabilize it in the early stages of a building project. The skill is being used extensively in tunneling projects in and around London and is also now being used on train platforms.

Candidates seeking employment should be skilled and hard-working and understand the techniques that have made sprayed concrete such a vital part of modern construction. Qualifications and or formal training are important, as is an understanding of the risks involved in using highly pressurised spraying equipment.

Staff are required to be self-motivated, able to take instruction and work to deadlines. Work is often physically demanding with the likelihood that a lot of time will be spent underground. Recruitment agencies will look for employees who have a good attitude are physically able and have good communication skills.

Salaries start at around £17,000 and rise quickly to £21,000. More senior roles and engineer positions can bring in as much as £50,000.