Heidelberg Materials
General Operative
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General Operative
Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) – General Operative
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 across the UK.
We're committed to building a more sustainable future, recognising that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We foster a culture that values openness, transparency, and individual achievement, with environmental responsibility at the heart of everything we do. As industry leaders on the path to carbon neutrality and a circular economy, we innovate to create sustainable building solutions and empower customers through digitalisation.
The Opportunity
Are you hands-on, proud of high standards, and deeply committed to safety? Join our team as a General Operative—where every day offers variety, safety is non-negotiable, and your work supports major construction projects across the UK.
You’ll develop your skills, earn industry-recognised qualifications, and contribute to a business that builds communities for the future.
Key Responsibilities
As a General Operative, you’ll support site operations, ensuring plant and processes run safely and efficiently. Your role spans:
- Operating and maintaining mobile & static plant, including inspections and defect reporting.
- Assisting with material loading, handling, processing and rail operations (including train/wagon inspections).
- Upholding excellent housekeeping and site standards.
- Compliance with health & safety, environmental regulations, and company procedures.
- Supporting visitor sign-in procedures and contractor inductions.
- Recording near-miss incidents and improving processes.
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You’ll be trained to achieve operational competencies and participate in a team driving efficiency and quality.
Who You Are
Essential
- A strong commitment to HSE (Health, Safety & Environmental).
- Excellent teamwork & communication skills.
- Reliable timekeeping and professionalism.
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and develop new skills.
- Ability to work in an industrial, operations-driven environment.
- A positive attitude and proactive approach.
Desirable
- Experience operating mobile/plant equipment (e.g. excavators, loaders, cranes).
- Background in quarrying, construction, manufacturing, rail, or heavy industry.
- Progress towards or completion of NVQ/QCF qualifications in plant operations.
- Knowledge of construction materials, logistics, or site operations.
(Diverse backgrounds and career paths are critically welcomed!)
Why Heidelberg Materials?
Joining us means more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to grow, impact, and thrive in a company that:
- Invests in you: Training, qualifications, mentoring.
- Values you: A supportive team and genuine career progression.
- Demands excellence: Safe, compliant work that matters to communities.
- Future-proofs you: Industry-leading sustainability and tech leadership.
You’ll earn a competitive salary and benefits including:
- Industry-recognised certifications.
- A dedicated development plan aligned with your career goals.
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Salary: Commencing rates (subject to OT). £19.13 (Killingworth/North East) - £19.13 - £19.56 (Huntly/Scotland)
Hours: 40 hrs per week (including shift work).
Our Commitment to You
Workplace Culture
We are dedicated to an inclusive, respectful workplace where every individual can thrive. We actively encourage:
- Careers-in-Construction for women (addressing gender representation).
- Flexible/family-friendly policies: enhanced maternity/parental leave, neonatal care, and adoption support.
- Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Programme, mental health first aiders, private medical benefits.
Accessibility
Heidelberg Materials is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you need support during the recruitment process, please:
“Email Recruitment@uk.heidelbergmaterials.com” to request adjustments.
Belonging at HM
We celebrate diversity, innovation, and continuous improvement. Whether you’re a seasonal worker or a career-focused professional, we’d love to hear from you—your perspective matters.
Ready to Apply?
Be part of a team that builds the essentials—safe, bold, and collective progress—while shaping a greener future. Ready? Make the move.
How to Start
- Apply online (link to application form).
- Request additional info or accommodations: recruitment@uk.heidelbergmaterials.com.
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