Heidelberg Materials
General Operative
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Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK.
We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We aim to promote a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement.
At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.
General Operative
Location: Chelmsford
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Build Your Future with Heidelberg Materials
Are you a hands-on individual who enjoys working as part of a team in a busy production environment? Do you take pride in maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and operational excellence?
Heidelberg Materials is looking for a proactive and safety-conscious General Operative to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills within a leading construction materials business where safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.
About the Role
As a General Operative, you will play a key role in supporting the safe and efficient operation of our quarry and processing facilities. You will be involved in plant operations, inspections, maintenance activities, site housekeeping, and ensuring compliance with all safety, quality, and environmental standards.
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Working closely with colleagues across the site, you'll help ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining the highest standards of operational performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate mobile plant equipment in accordance with company procedures and site requirements.
- Operate static plant machinery safely and efficiently to support production activities.
- Complete Safety, Health, Environmental (SHE), and Quality inspections, accurately recording findings and reporting any defects.
- Conduct pre-use, operational, and post-operational checks on plant and equipment.
- Maintain plant and equipment in good working order in line with manufacturer and Heidelberg Materials recommendations.
- Support load and haul, processing, and materials handling operations.
- Complete near-miss reports and actively contribute to improving site safety performance.
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping, ensuring work areas are kept clean, safe, and organised.
- Welcome site visitors, ensure sign-in procedures are followed, and direct visitors appropriately.
- Assist with contractor inductions where required.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure production runs efficiently and effectively.
- Follow all company policies and procedures with a strong focus on health and safety, quality, and environmental compliance.
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What We're Looking For
Essential Requirements
- Good general level of education.
- Strong understanding of the importance of health and safety in an operational environment.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Reliable with excellent timekeeping and attendance.
- Ability to follow procedures and work safely at all times.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Desirable
- Experience operating mobile or static plant equipment.
- Previous experience within quarrying, manufacturing, production, construction, or a similar industrial environment.
- NVQ/QCF qualification in static or mobile plant operations, or a willingness to work towards achieving this qualification.
Why Join Heidelberg Materials?
At Heidelberg Materials, we invest in our people and provide opportunities for long-term development and career progression.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Support to gain industry-recognised qualifications.
- Career progression within a global market leader.
- A strong safety-first culture.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- The opportunity to play a key role in helping build the infrastructure of tomorrow.
Apply Today
If you're looking for a practical, rewarding role where safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement are valued, we'd love to hear from you.
Join Heidelberg Materials and help keep our operations running safely, efficiently, and successfully every day.
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