Heidelberg Materials
Graduate Engineer (Mechanical)

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Heidelberg Materials UK
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.
Kickstart Your Career as a Graduate
Location: Purfleet
Salary: £30,937pa
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
About the Opportunity
Start a Graduate program with Heidelberg Materials and gain a fascinating insight into an exciting and rewarding career in the construction industry.
We’re one of the world’s largest suppliers of heavy building materials, employing 51,000 people at around 3,000 sites in over 50 countries.
Our core products are aggregates, cement, concrete, asphalt, which are used in some of the largest construction projects across the globe.
Why Choose to Join Our Graduate Programme?
Our graduate programme will give you the skills, knowledge and experience to become future leaders of our company. You will learn about all aspects of our business as you work alongside some of the most experienced people working in our industry.
Cement (Two Years)
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the cement making process including technical production skills and strategic management.
The below lists the general areas you will be expected to gain experience. The below tasks are not exhaustive and you may be required to undertake alternative or additional work as deemed appropriate.
Process Operations and Management
- Gather and understand process information relating to kiln and cement mill operation
- Gather, collate and analyse downtime information on cement mills, kiln and associated equipment
- Design and implement progressive, costed and planned improvements to the mill and kiln efficiencies; to include mill and kiln inspections and associated studies
- To monitor and make viable suggestions for improved mill and kiln performance with respect to product quality to include monitoring of process parameters and the effects on finished products through effective liaison with other departments.
- Assessing potential of alternative materials for improvements to efficiency and cost reductions
- Monitoring air usage on site and reducing same where possible through liaison with necessary internal and external departments
- Monitoring electricity usage on site and reducing where possible; to include an increased understanding and visibility of reporting and monitoring
- Work with relevant departments and personnel to ensure operational targets are achieved
- Provide accurate data for KPI reporting
- Provide accurate data for internal reporting as required as well as provide potential solutions for operational issues
- Share best practice with other Hanson cement plants on mill and kiln operation
- Understanding of Production Managers, Kiln and Cement engineers and shift manager roles and the roles of other personnel within their departments and within the cement division
- Perform any other process efficiency related duties as reasonably required by line management when sufficient experience permits
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Fully Conversant with SAP PM
- Ensure Hanson Cements IMS is adhered to in all aspects related to engineering.
- To liaise with contractors on technical and safety issues.
- To liaise with suppliers on technical and safety issues.
The position involves occasional weekend and night working as necessary, particularly during planned and unplanned repairs, the position will require flexible working dependant upon this.
General Management and Risk Management
- Ensuring compliance with various Acts, Regulations and licence conditions and accreditations that apply within the business
- Record any non-conformance, hazard or complaint and act to investigate and carry out any necessary action to correct
- Assist with management with preparation of reports, budgets and other relevant reports
- Undertake operational improvement programs as specified to improve costs, availability, performance, customer service and operational excellence
Sustainability Including Health & Safety
- Be able to navigate the safety management systems, and adhere to all reporting standards
- Understand the appropriate internal and external regulations, guidelines and policies and how they apply across the business areas
- Accompany the Health and Safety team to site visits and support them during audits and when compiling reports
Support Functions
- Ensure adequate knowledge of the various support functions (HR, Procurement, Lands, Finance etc.) within Hanson, and how these functions integrate with and support the business
Leadership and Management
- Adhere to the Heidelberg Materials leadership principles
- Be aware of the applicable employee contracts, including local and union agreements
- Discuss any employment issues with your management team immediately to ensure appropriate steps are taken in a timely manner
- In conjunction with management: conduct inductions, assessment, supervision, and on-going training of employees
What We’re Looking For:
- Energetic and Proactive: You’re ready to jump in and make an impact from day one.
- Team-Oriented: Collaboration is key, and you’re always ready to contribute to the team’s success.
- Results-Driven: You have a practical mindset with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
- Adaptable and Curious: Flexibility and a willingness to learn are essential in this ever-evolving industry.
Entry Requirements
- You must have graduated in 2026 or be graduating in 2027 and expected to achieve a 2:1 in any of the following areas: Mechanical engineering.
- British citizenship or UK settled status.
- Full UK Driving Licence


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Benefits
- Competitive Salary and Benefits: Attractive salary packages and comprehensive benefits to reward your hard work and commitment, including health coverage, pension plans, and other perks.
- One-to-One Coaching: Personalised guidance and support from experienced professionals to help you navigate your apprenticeship and achieve your career goals.
- Formal Training and Qualifications: Access to structured training programs and qualifications, including recognised diplomas and degrees, to build your expertise and credentials
- Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth, including workshops, seminars, and networking events to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Mentoring and Support: Ongoing mentorship from senior professionals to provide career advice, personal development, and guidance throughout your apprenticeship.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to a wide network of industry professionals and peers through company events, conferences, and industry seminars, helping you build valuable connections.
- Focus on Sustainability: Involvement in projects and initiatives that prioritise environmental sustainability and innovative practices, contributing to a more sustainable future.
- Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: A supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages different perspectives, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
- Career Progression: Clear pathways for advancement within the company, including opportunities for further education and career development as you gain experience and expertise.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements and support for a healthy work-life balance, ensuring you can manage your personal and professional commitments effectively.
Next Steps
- Submit your application
- Attach a cover and CV highlighting your qualifications, skills and experience, and reasons for applying to us.
Pre-Recorded Interview and Online Assessment
If you are shortlisted, you’ll be invited to take part in a pre-recorded video interview and record your responses to a series of questions. This will help us assess your communication skills, motivation and how you align with our company values. You will also be asked to complete an online assessment to test your numerical, problem solving and technical skills.
Interview and Insight Day
You’ll then be invited to an interview and insight day and be asked to prepare a 10-minute presentation on a relevant topic in advance, which will help us assess your research, communications and presentation skills. You will then attend an interview with two senior managers focusing on your skills, competencies and experience. Following the interview, you will have a chance to get a firsthand look at our industry and learn more about our business.
After the Insight Day
You will then joining our Graduate programme beginning in September. Good luck!
Join us on our graduate programme as we continue to push boundaries and create lasting impact across the built environment.
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