At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate plant machinery and manage waste operations in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Essex County Council's dedicated team focused on environmental services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Sunday allowance, full training provided, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work outdoors, engage with the community, and enjoy a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in waste management while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Full driving licence required; experience in waste operations is a plus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 28033 - 28033 £ per year.
Permanent, Full Time
£28,033 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Closing Date: 20th March 2026
Please note in addition to an annual salary you will also receive a 6% flat rate allowance for working Sundays.
Full valid driving licence required. Material Handler and Loading Shovel Qualification desirable but not essential as full training will be provided. Weekend work is required every two weeks.
The Opportunity
A multi-task role from managing and controlling all tipping hall operations to being accountable for ensuring articulated vehicles are loaded safely and in accordance with KPI's within the Essex County Council Waste service. Managing on site traffic management for multiple local district councils and 3rd Parties to ensure contractual tipping arrangements are met and carried out safely. Directly responsible for the safe and proper operation and maintenance of any site vehicle under their use. This includes liaising with Site Supervisor/Operations Manager for repairs and servicing of all equipment on site including scheduling works/contractors to avoid impact on the service. Responsible for operating the front-loading shovel and 360-degree wheeled materials handler to move, load and transport waste safely and competently. Lead on ensuring all site users within the tipping hall operation are following site rules and in accordance with Health and Safety and Environmental policies and procedures.
Accountabilities
- Lead on all mobile plant operations as required to safely contain and manage waste tipped from RCV's, including pushing up waste using the loading shovel as well as loading lorries.
- Accountable for following the site-specific rules at all waste facilities operated by Essex County Council.
- Ensure all site users comply with site rules and where required enforce site rules by inducting and training individuals.
- Accountable for the Pre-use inspections of the plant or equipment assigned for operation, reporting any defects prior to shift start as well as undertaking general maintenance and preventive maintenance activities.
- When not operating plant/vehicles other duties may be required such as Weighbridge or assisting the site supervisor with site inspections/paperwork.
- Responsible for routine cleaning to ensure the site is free from litter and to contain and dispose of any spillages.
- To ensure that all resources used (e.g. equipment, machinery and buildings) are kept safe, in good order and condition and are not exposed to the risk of loss, damage or theft.
- To immediately report any contamination or non-conforming wastes delivered to site, accidents, incidents, near misses and environmental hazards to your line manager.
- To carry out any other duties commensurate with the post as required to meet the needs of the service.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Qualifications/Training: Full valid driving licence. Material Handler and Loading Shovel Qualification desirable but not essential as full training will be provided. Previous experience of working within the waste industry is desirable but not essential.
- Knowledge: Understanding of waste operations is desirable. Mechanical knowledge.
- Experience: Previous experience operating plant machinery preferably within the waste industry. Experience working with the public is desirable. Manual handling experience.
- Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Able to understand written and verbal instruction.
- Character: Self-motivated with the willingness to undertake further training when required. Able to work outdoors for long periods and in all weather conditions with appropriate protective clothing/equipment.
- Availability/Locality/Mobility: You will be largely based at a council Waste Transfer Station but may be required to work at any other location as required.
Please note that the job role requires you to be mobile throughout an operational area. Therefore, the post holder will need to have a driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means.
Shovel Driver/Plant Operative - Chelmsford employer: Broadbean Technology
As a Shovel Driver/Plant Operative with Essex County Council, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to maintaining high standards in waste management. Our commitment to employee development means you will receive comprehensive training, including opportunities to gain qualifications in plant operation, all while enjoying a competitive salary and additional benefits such as a flat rate allowance for Sunday work. With a strong focus on health and safety, our work culture promotes teamwork and accountability, ensuring that you can thrive in a rewarding role that contributes positively to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shovel Driver/Plant Operative - Chelmsford
✨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 Broadbean Technology, 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 Shovel Driver/Plant Operative - Chelmsford at Broadbean Technology.
We think you need these skills to ace Shovel Driver/Plant Operative - Chelmsford
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 Broadbean Technology
✨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!
