About this role
Bentonite Operator Job Description
Bentonite Operator
Location: Lagos
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Foundation Engineering & Construction
Department: Technical Operations / Site Operations
Location: Lagos, Nigeria, with deployment to project sites anywhere across Nigeria
Reports To: Bentonite Engineer / Site Engineer / Operations Manager
Work Arrangement: Fully On-site
Candidate Type: Expatriate
Job Summary
- The Bentonite Operator will operate and maintain bentonite and polymer slurry preparation, circulation, treatment, and recycling equipment used in bored piling and diaphragm wall construction.
- The role ensures the continuous supply of slurry that meets operational requirements while maintaining equipment reliability, safe working practices, and accurate operational records.
Key Responsibilities
Slurry Plant Operations:
- Operate bentonite mixing plants, slurry pumps, desanding units, storage tanks, and associated equipment.
- Prepare and mix bentonite or polymer slurry according to approved instructions.
- Monitor slurry circulation, transfer, storage, and recovery during construction activities.
- Ensure adequate slurry is available to support piling and diaphragm wall operations.
- Monitor equipment gauges, controls, flow rates, and other operating indicators.
- Report unusual equipment behaviour or changes in operating conditions promptly.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance:
- Conduct pre-start checks and routine inspections of slurry plant equipment.
- Identify leaks, blockages, abnormal vibration, pressure changes, and other equipment faults.
- Carry out routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance within the scope of training and authorisation.
- Report equipment breakdowns and assist maintenance personnel with repairs.
- Maintain clean, organised, and safe plant operating areas.
Slurry Handling and Quality Support:
- Assist with slurry sampling and testing as instructed by the Bentonite Engineer.
- Monitor mixing ratios and material consumption according to approved procedures.
- Support slurry recycling, desanding, and waste handling.
- Report slurry shortages, contamination, or other operating problems.
- Follow instructions regarding the handling and storage of bentonite and polymer materials.
Safety and Environmental Compliance:
- Follow equipment operating procedures and site HSE requirements.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Maintain safe access around tanks, pumps, pipelines, and mixing equipment.
- Prevent avoidable spills and report environmental incidents.
- Participate in toolbox talks, safety inspections, and equipment safety checks.
Reporting and Coordination:
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Maintain daily operating logs and records of slurry production and consumption.
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Record equipment operating hours, faults, and maintenance requirements.
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Coordinate with bentonite engineers, piling crews, and other plant personnel.
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Report material shortages and operational challenges promptly.
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Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
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Availability and reliability of slurry plant equipment.
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Timely supply of slurry to construction operations.
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Compliance with approved operating procedures.
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Reduction in avoidable material losses and equipment downtime.
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Accuracy of daily operating records.
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Timely reporting of equipment faults and operational issues.
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Compliance with HSE and environmental requirements.
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Qualifications and Experience
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Relevant technical, vocational, or trade qualification is preferred.
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Minimum of five years' relevant experience operating bentonite plants, slurry systems, or similar equipment.
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Practical experience with mixing plants, pumps, desanders, pipelines, and slurry storage systems.
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Relevant equipment operator competency certification or OEM training is an advantage.
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Experience on bored piling or diaphragm wall construction sites is desirable.
Required Skills and Competencies:
- Strong practical equipment operating skills.
- Ability to follow technical instructions and operating procedures.
- Basic equipment troubleshooting and maintenance awareness.
- Attention to detail and operational discipline.
- Good communication and teamwork.
- Ability to work under pressure and on remote sites.
- Commitment to safe equipment operation and environmental protection.
- Willingness to work in Lagos and at project sites anywhere across Nigeria.
Preferred candidate markets include:
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Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Egypt, and other countries with strong relevant industry experience
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Candidates must possess practical, verifiable experience relevant to the specific position and be willing to work in Nigeria.
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Work Location and Conditions
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Primary location: Lagos, Nigeria.
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Project deployment: Any state across Nigeria, including remote project locations.
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Work arrangement: Fully on-site; not hybrid or remote.
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Working days: Monday to Saturday.
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Working hours: Project-based, depending on site requirements.
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Work authorisation: Applicable Nigerian immigration and work permit requirements must be met.
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Candidates must possess practical, verifiable experience relevant to the specific position and be willing to work in Nigeria.
Work Location and Conditions:
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Primary location: Lagos, Nigeria.
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Project deployment: Any state across Nigeria, including remote project locations.
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Work arrangement: Fully on-site; not hybrid or remote.
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Working days: Monday to Saturday.
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Working hours: Project-based, depending on site requirements.
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Probationary period: Six months.
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Annual vacation: 10 days.
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Work authorisation: Applicable Nigerian immigration and work permit requirements must be met.
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Candidates must be prepared to travel, relocate between project sites, and work under the conditions associated with active foundation engineering and construction projects.
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Additional Benefits
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Accommodation support.
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Transportation support.
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Work permit assistance where applicable.
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Project-related allowances.
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Medical support in line with company policy.
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Career progression and leadership opportunities.
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Exposure to major infrastructure and foundation engineering projects.
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Technical development and professional certification support where applicable.
Application Closing Date
25th November, 2026.