Knauf UK & Ireland
Plant Operator - Calcination

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Knauf stands for opportunity.
We know that opportunity looks different to each person and we are proud that we see opportunity in everyone. This exciting role within the Calcination Team could be the perfect opportunity for you to build a unique career, in a values-led culture with a clear purpose of making tomorrow a home for all of us.
As a Group we are a global manufacturer of construction materials and our 43,500 team members in 90 countries across 320 sites provide a huge opportunity for anyone with ambition and energy. We value everyone's contribution equally and we ask that you bring your whole self to work, to enrich the business further, as together we achieve more in a safe and inclusive environment.
Knauf (Gypsum) is recruiting a Plant Operator
to join our Calcination Team at the Sittingbourne plant. Reporting to the Jetty & Calcination Manager, you’ll work 12-hour shifts on a 4-on (two days, two nights), 6-off rotation.
Can you say yes?
- Do you actively collaborate with colleagues to maintain standards and drive improvements?
- Do you follow company health and safety policies and engage in tasks safely?
- Do you have experience working in a production role within a manufacturing environment?
If so we would welcome your application.
What you'll be doing:
As a Mobile Plant Operator - Calcination Level 1, you will operate the plant safely, efficiently and correctly, whilst adhering to a strict clean-as-you-go policy. You will carry out basic equipment maintenance, alongside ongoing quality checks and monitoring, and ensure clear communication through accurate shift handovers to address any issues. The role also requires the drive and desire to progress towards a Level 2 MPO Calcination position as skills and experience develop.
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Responsibilities include:
- Health & Safety: Follow company health and safety policies to protect yourself and others. Actively engage in safety initiatives and seek guidance when unsure.
- Machinery Operation: After training and certification, operate machinery safely, including the Bagging Plant, Mixer, Stacker, Calcination, Shovel, Warehouse, and Laminator as needed.
- Maintenance & Quality: Conduct basic maintenance tasks as directed, ensure regular production checks, comply with quality systems to deliver top-quality products, and maintain detailed, accurate records of issues.
- Waste Reduction & Efficiency: Focus on minimising waste, uphold clean-as-you-go standards based on 5S principles, and consistently follow operating procedures to enhance efficiency.
- Shift Handover: Provide and receive clear and accurate shift handover reports to ensure seamless communication and resolution of any issues.
- Continuous Improvement: Contribute to process improvements, team projects, and initiatives, taking a proactive role in identifying and implementing enhancements.
- Teamwork: Collaborate closely with shift colleagues to uphold standards and support ongoing improvements.


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What we'd love for you to have:
- The ability to analyse production plans for efficiency and communicate effectively with team members.
- Able to remain calm under pressure with experience in operational planning, continuous processes, quality systems, and H&S practices.
- Be a competent user in basic IT skills, including MS Word, Excel and able to analyse HMI.
We will provide:
- A competitive salary of £37,749.95.
- Three paid days leave for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments.
- 7% employer pension contribution.
- Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare.
- Income Protection
- Access to a Reward & Benefits platform.
- Access to Employee Assistance Program (legal or medical advice).
- Life Assurance (x 4 times your basic salary).
- Cycle to Work Scheme and Tech Scheme.
What happens next?
We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within three working days.
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