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Bentonite Operator

Bradfield consulting
Lagos, Nigeria Posted Oct 21, 2026
On-site

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:

  • Maintain daily operating logs and records of slurry production and consumption.

  • Record equipment operating hours, faults, and maintenance requirements.

  • Coordinate with bentonite engineers, piling crews, and other plant personnel.

  • Report material shortages and operational challenges promptly.

  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

  • Availability and reliability of slurry plant equipment.

  • Timely supply of slurry to construction operations.

  • Compliance with approved operating procedures.

  • Reduction in avoidable material losses and equipment downtime.

  • Accuracy of daily operating records.

  • Timely reporting of equipment faults and operational issues.

  • Compliance with HSE and environmental requirements.

  • Qualifications and Experience

  • Relevant technical, vocational, or trade qualification is preferred.

  • Minimum of five years' relevant experience operating bentonite plants, slurry systems, or similar equipment.

  • Practical experience with mixing plants, pumps, desanders, pipelines, and slurry storage systems.

  • Relevant equipment operator competency certification or OEM training is an advantage.

  • 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:

  • Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Egypt, and other countries with strong relevant industry experience

  • Candidates must possess practical, verifiable experience relevant to the specific position and be willing to work in Nigeria.

  • Work Location and Conditions

  • Primary location: Lagos, Nigeria.

  • Project deployment: Any state across Nigeria, including remote project locations.

  • Work arrangement: Fully on-site; not hybrid or remote.

  • Working days: Monday to Saturday.

  • Working hours: Project-based, depending on site requirements.

  • Work authorisation: Applicable Nigerian immigration and work permit requirements must be met.

  • Candidates must possess practical, verifiable experience relevant to the specific position and be willing to work in Nigeria.

Work Location and Conditions:

  • Primary location: Lagos, Nigeria.

  • Project deployment: Any state across Nigeria, including remote project locations.

  • Work arrangement: Fully on-site; not hybrid or remote.

  • Working days: Monday to Saturday.

  • Working hours: Project-based, depending on site requirements.

  • Probationary period: Six months.

  • Annual vacation: 10 days.

  • Work authorisation: Applicable Nigerian immigration and work permit requirements must be met.

  • Candidates must be prepared to travel, relocate between project sites, and work under the conditions associated with active foundation engineering and construction projects.

  • Additional Benefits

  • Accommodation support.

  • Transportation support.

  • Work permit assistance where applicable.

  • Project-related allowances.

  • Medical support in line with company policy.

  • Career progression and leadership opportunities.

  • Exposure to major infrastructure and foundation engineering projects.

  • Technical development and professional certification support where applicable.

Application Closing Date

25th November, 2026.

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