About the Role
Machine Operative (Loading Shovel & 360 Grab Operator)
Location: Salford (M6 6LD)
We are looking for an experienced Loading Shovel & 360 Grab Operator to join our team at our busy Salford recycling facility. You will operate mobile plant to safely move, load and sort waste materials throughout the site. This is a hands-on role where safety, compliance and maintaining high operational standards are essential.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Operate loading shovels, 360 grabs, forklifts and other mobile plant
- Load and unload vehicles safely and efficiently
- Move and segregate materials to maximise recovery and recycling
- Complete daily safety and defect checks before operating equipment
- Identify and report unsuitable or non-conforming materials
- Keep operational areas, walkways and machinery clean and free from debris
- Support routine plant maintenance once fully trained
- Follow all health, safety, environmental and site procedures
- Report equipment defects, incidents and near misses immediately
- Wear the required personal protective equipment at all times
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience operating a loading shovel and 360 grab
- Holds relevant and valid plant operator tickets or licences
- Understands mobile plant and workplace safety procedures
- Is comfortable working in a busy waste, recycling or industrial environment
- Takes pride in maintaining high housekeeping standards
- Is reliable, safety-conscious and able to work effectively as part of a team
Join us as a Loading Shovel & 360 Grab Operator and play an important role in keeping our Salford operation safe, efficient and compliant.
About Us
We are Panda. We value waste.
We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.
At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.
We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.
We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.
And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.
Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact.
Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve. (DE&I Policy Statement)
Machine Operative in Manchester employer: Greenstar
At Panda, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises safety and teamwork. Our employees benefit from comprehensive training and growth opportunities within the waste management sector, all while working in a supportive environment that values their contributions. Located at our operational site, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact on the community through responsible waste management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Operative in Manchester
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Greenstar, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Greenstar specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Greenstar
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Greenstar, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Greenstar value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
