At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate heavy machinery and assist in extracting and processing materials in a busy quarry.
- Company: Join Breedon Group, a leading construction materials company committed to safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 33 days leave, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with support for your health and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience outdoors while contributing to essential construction projects.
- Qualifications: Experience with machinery and a strong focus on safety are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Breedon Group plc is a leading vertically integrated construction materials group in Great Britain, Ireland, and the USA. We're dedicated to providing high-quality materials and services for the construction industry, with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Joining Breedon means becoming part of a team that values excellence and is committed to making a positive impact.
We are looking for a reliable and hardworking Quarry Operative to join our quarrying team. In this hands-on role, you’ll assist in the extraction, processing, and handling of aggregates and materials to meet production targets safely and efficiently. You’ll operate heavy plant and equipment, carry out basic maintenance, and follow strict health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys practical outdoor work, machinery, and working as part of a team in a busy quarry environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate mobile and fixed plant (e.g. dump trucks, loading shovels, crushers, screeners) in a safe and efficient manner
- Assist in the extraction, crushing, and processing of raw materials
- Carry out routine checks, cleaning, and basic maintenance on machinery and equipment
- Load and unload materials safely for transport or further processing
- Follow daily work schedules and production instructions from supervisors
- Conduct regular safety checks and report any hazards, defects, or incidents
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations at all times
- Keep the quarry site clean, safe, and organised
- Assist with site inspections and support operational audits as required
- Work flexibly across different roles and tasks depending on site needs
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential
- Competence in operating plant or machinery (e.g. loading shovel, excavator, dumper truck) – CPCS or MPQC card advantageous
- Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to perform simple maintenance tasks
- Understanding of health and safety practices and willingness to follow procedures
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Safety-focused with a responsible attitude
- Willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated
- Flexible and able to adapt to different tasks and shift patterns
Desirable
- Previous experience in quarrying, construction, mining, or similar heavy industry
- MPQC or NVQ Level 2 in Extractives Operations
- First Aid or health & safety training (e.g. IOSH Working Safely)
Benefits
- A tailored, competitive salary
- Company Pension Scheme
- 33 days annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays
- Share Saver Scheme participation
- Company Life Assurance Scheme
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing support
- Discounts on a wide range of products through our employee benefits platform
- Broad learning opportunities and career progression pathways
Diversity Statement
At Breedon Group, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued. We believe in equality of opportunity for all and encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates.
Join Us
If you're looking for a role that challenges you, offers progression, and contributes to building better futures, we'd love to hear from you. This position is an opportunity to grow your career within a supportive and dynamic environment at Breedon Group.
Quarry Operative in Peebles employer: Breedon Group plc
Breedon Group plc is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment at Cowieslinn Quarry & Asphalt Plant. With a strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and employee development, we provide competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and access to a range of benefits including a pension scheme and health support. Join us to be part of a team that values excellence and fosters career growth in the thriving construction materials industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quarry Operative in Peebles
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Breedon Group plc, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Quarry Operative at Breedon Group plc.
We think you need these skills to ace Quarry Operative in Peebles
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Breedon Group plc
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
