Job Description

Who are we?
Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd is a family run business owned and run by the Smith family since 1982. Smiths has grown from a single owner-operated plant hire company to a multifaceted group with family values still firmly at the heart of each project undertaken. With depots in Avonmouth, Cardiff, Gloucester, Stonehouse and Tewkesbury we operate predominately across the South-West of England. We specialise in Construction, Waste Management, Plant Hire, Demolition and Transport operations.
Location: Cardiff
Job Type: Permanent
Reports To: Contracts Manager
Job Summary:
A Setting Out Engineer plays a critical role in the delivery of construction and civil engineering projects by accurately marking out the location and levels of construction elements on site. This ensures all work is executed according to the design plans and specifications. The role requires technical precision, site coordination, and effective communication with various teams.
Responsibilities for the job role:

• Interpret and implement construction drawings and specifications.
• Set out, level, and survey the construction site using GPS, total stations, and other equipment.
• Mark the position of structures (e.g., foundations, roads, drainage, etc.).
• Liaise with site managers, subcontractors, and other engineers to ensure alignment with project plans.
• Verify and check the accuracy of work by subcontractors and tradespeople.
• Maintain and update site records, as-builts, and survey logs.
• Conduct quality checks and ensure work is completed to required standards.
• Assist in resolving technical issues on site in coordination with the design team.
• Provide technical guidance to less experienced engineers or technicians.
• Ensure health and safety protocols are followed during setting out activities.
• Ability to raise technical queries.

What can we offer you?

• Work in a well-established family run business
• PPE
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Free on-site Parking
• Corporate gym membership discount
• Annual Salary Review
• Employee discount (50% on Skip Hire, other discounts on group services)
• Progression opportunities
• 24 hour unlimited access to mental health support

Requirements:

• Degree, HND or HNC in Civil Engineering, Construction, or related field.
• Proven experience as a Setting Out Engineer or Site Engineer.
• Proficient in using surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS, laser levels, and AutoCAD.
• Good understanding of construction methods, health & safety regulations, and civil engineering principles.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• CSCS card (or equivalent) - preferred or required depending on site.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with software like AutoCAD, Trimble, Leica, Revit, or Civil 3D.
• Familiarity with QA/QC systems and document control.

Working Conditions:

• Typically site-based with outdoor working in varying weather conditions.
• May involve travel between sites depending on project location

What are our core values?
If these values align with yours you are in the right place!
Honesty - We believe that honesty in all matters is the best policy.
Family values - We operate as a family unit with high moral standards, discipline and respect.
Hardworking - We are certain that nothing is impossible if you work hard enough at it.
Reliability - We pride ourselves on not letting people down and being true to our word.
Environmental sustainability - We aim to minimise the impact that our company has on the environment by reducing emissions and waste, and recycling a large proportion of our waste (90% plus). We truly believe in a greener future for generations to come.
Please apply if you are interested in this role and we will come back to you.

Skills Required