Groundworker jobs in the UK and London: the cards, the pay and how to get hired
Groundworkers do the work before the building goes up — drainage, foundations, kerbs, slabs, ducting. Most sites want a CSCS card (blue with an NVQ Level 2 in groundworks, or green for labouring) and anyone driving plant needs a CPCS or NPORS card. Groundworkers earn roughly £150–£200 a day (London usually more).
Rates: indicative 2026 ranges from published UK price guides — see day rates 2026. CIS: gov.uk.
Open jobs for groundworkers right now
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How to get hired as a groundworker
Get your CSCS card
Green Labourer card to start (Level 1 Award + CITB Operatives test, £36). With an NVQ Level 2 in groundworks you get the blue Skilled Worker card and better-paid work.
Add plant tickets if you drive
Excavators, dumpers, rollers and telehandlers need a plant card: CPCS or NPORS. Sites check the category on the card matches the machine.
Useful extra tickets
Cable avoidance (CAT and Genny), confined spaces and street works tickets open more jobs, especially on utilities and civils.
Apply — and get on the crew list
Apply below in 30 seconds, no CV upload — gangs can apply together.
What firms check before they hire a groundworker
Your CSCS card
In date — green or blue depending on the role.
Plant cards
CPCS or NPORS with the right categories, if you'll operate machines.
Experience
Drainage, setting out, concrete, kerbs and paving, ducting — say exactly what you've done.
Early starts and travel
Groundworks starts early and moves between sites; a driving licence is a plus.
What you actually take home
Example: at £170 a day, a 5-day week is £850. As a self-employed subcontractor registered for CIS, the firm takes 20% (£170) and pays you £680. If you're not registered for CIS, they take 30%.
That 20% is an advance on your tax and National Insurance, not a fee. After the tax year ends (5 April) many workers get part of it back — more if they keep receipts for tools, PPE and travel. See the CIS refund guide and what you can claim.
Before your first CIS payment you need a UTR number and to register with HMRC as self-employed — how to get a UTR.
Put yourself on the crew list: 1 minute, free, no account. Firms looking for your trade text you directly.
Join the crew list →Common questions
Which card does a groundworker need?
A CSCS card: blue Skilled Worker with an NVQ Level 2 in groundworks, or the green Labourer card for labouring roles. Plant operators also need a CPCS or NPORS card.
What's the difference between CPCS and NPORS?
Both are plant operator card schemes accepted on UK sites. Some major contractors prefer CPCS; many accept either — check the job ad.
Do I need a ticket to use a dumper or a digger?
Yes, on almost every site. Without a plant card for that machine category you won't be allowed to operate it.
How much does a groundworker earn per day in London?
Published 2026 guides put skilled labourers and groundworkers at roughly £150–£200 a day across the UK, with London usually 15–25% higher. Plant operators and gangers earn more.
How do I apply for groundworks jobs on Graftum?
Open a job and press Apply — about 30 seconds, no account, no CV upload. The firm gets your name and number and calls you.
