At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate vehicles and machinery in a dynamic quarry environment while ensuring safety.
- Company: Join CORMAC, a leading civil engineering contractor in the South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for continuous training and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of health and safety, team player, and experience with mobile plant.
The predicted salary is between 38725 - 47331 £ per year.
CORMAC comprises of CORMAC Solutions Ltd and CORMAC Contracting Ltd. CORMAC Solutions delivers in-house services for Cornwall Council and the wider public through partnership with Town and Parish Councils, local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Social Enterprise Groups, providing a complete solution and helping local communities grow and thrive in a sustainable way. CORMAC Contracting delivers competitive solutions to all major and specialist construction challenges by working together with our clients and supply chain to enhance whole-life value while reducing total cost, improving quality and innovating. We are widely recognized as being one of the South West’s leading Civil Engineering contractors for the public and private sector.
The Aggregate and Recycling division of Cormac operates macadam hot coated stone plant, has earth and stone moving equipment within a working quarry area of some 84 hectares at Castle-An-Dinas, Penzance. It also operates 5 recycling depots throughout the county. The Castle-an-Dinas Quarry is a key element in the supply chain of aggregates and asphalt for CORMAC and local businesses in Cornwall. The Aggregates & Recycling team produces approximately 250,000 tons of material per annum, ranging from graded fills and sub-bases, clean aggregates used in the production of road asphalt and concrete production, hedging stone and various size aggregates for the building industries.
About the role as a Quarry operative, you would be expected to:
- To drive / operate vehicles and plant in the Quarry.
- To undertake a broad range of operational tasks including extensive practical knowledge and skills with regard to mobile and static plant.
- To ensure the safety of yourself, colleagues and the public.
- To be responsible for utilizing the appropriate personal protective equipment.
- To keep co-workers safe, follow procedures and report unsafe practice.
- To be responsible for stopping works and actively challenging unsafe practice.
- To report safety incidents including near misses.
- To ensure that good environmental practices are observed.
- To ensure all driver / vehicle records are maintained.
About you
The following qualifications and experience are essential:
- Working knowledge of the Health & Safety at Work Act.
- Ability to achieve NVQ2 in a relevant discipline or equivalent relevant experience.
- Affable and polite showing good customer care skills.
- Sound team worker, adaptable and flexible.
- Demonstrate experience in mobile plant and machinery.
- Demonstrate good verbal communication skills.
The following qualifications and experience would be an advantage:
- MPQC Registration or equivalent in the operation of mobile plant.
- Practical skills in line with the delivery of a broad range of manual tasks.
- Able to work on own initiative to resolve problems.
- Demonstrate good problem-solving skills, the ability to react to changing situations and meet strict deadlines.
- UK Driving license and vehicle.
Our offer to you
Salary: £27,306.00
Working Hours: 37 per week
Contract Type: Permanent
Base: CORMAC, Castle Quarry, Castle-an-Dinas, Ludgvan, Penzance TR20 8AG
Close date: Midnight Wednesday 19th August 2026
Working with us you will have an employee benefits package that includes:
- Generous pension scheme with employer contribution.
- Employee discount scheme and wellbeing events.
- Holiday starting at 23 days and increasing to 28 with service (pro-rata if part-time) with option to purchase additional, plus bank holidays.
- Investment and support in your continuous training and development.
- Opportunity to become a Safeguarding Advocate, Health & Wellbeing Champion and Mental Health First Aider.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of all our service users, clients and customers. If the role is working with vulnerable individuals and/or children and young people, you will be asked to complete a relevant DBS check to be successfully appointed to the role.
To apply
It’s really easy to apply for our roles – simply follow the link to create a candidate profile, answer the screening questions and upload a CV.
Contact us
If you’d like to have a discussion about the role, please feel free to contact our in-house resourcing team for an informal chat about the role. Thank you for your interest in supporting our important work at Cormac.
Quarry Operative 3 in Penzance employer: CORMAC Solutions
At Cormac, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values reliability and dedication. As a Cleaner at Tregolls Children Centre in Truro, you will enjoy a generous benefits package, including a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for continuous training and development, all while contributing to the wellbeing of our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quarry Operative 3 in Penzance
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Quarry Operative 3 in Penzance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch CORMAC Solutions's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at CORMAC Solutions. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at CORMAC Solutions
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at CORMAC Solutions.
