Concrete plant Apprentice

Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK's largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK. We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We aim to promote a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement. At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.

Concrete Plant Apprentice

Are you practical, hands-on, and eager to learn a skilled trade that offers long-term career opportunities? We are looking for a motivated Concrete Plant Apprentice to join our team and gain industry-recognised qualifications while earning and learning. This is an exciting opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to become a key part of a busy concrete production operation. Through a structured apprenticeship programme and day-release college attendance, you’ll gain hands-on experience in site operations, concrete manufacturing, plant maintenance, health and safety, environmental management, and quality control.

What You'll Be Doing

Phase 1: Learning the Fundamentals of Site Operations

• Understanding site layout, storage areas, drainage systems, traffic management, and safe working practices.
• Operating a wheeled loading shovel to transport and load materials into the plant.
• Carrying out routine housekeeping duties to keep the site safe, clean, and organised.
• Assisting with plant maintenance and inspections.
• Supporting the safe and efficient running of the site in line with Health & Safety and environmental legislation.

Phase 2: Developing Concrete Production Expertise

• Operating computerised batching systems.
• Producing concrete to industry quality standards and QSRMC requirements.
• Supporting compliance with ISO 9001 quality management standards.
• Assisting with plant servicing and preventative maintenance activities.
• Completing operational, environmental, and health and safety documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Load aggregate bins using a loading shovel.
• Support routine plant inspections and maintenance activities.
• Keep plant equipment, buildings, and work areas clean, safe, and well maintained.
• Assist with environmental controls, including waste management, dust suppression, and water discharge monitoring.
• Help ensure sufficient stock levels are available to meet production requirements.
• Learn how to inspect incoming materials and carry out stock checks.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the site.
• Work closely with the Plant Supervisor to identify and report defects.
• Complete maintenance records and operational documentation accurately.
• Report any issues affecting safety, quality, customer service, or environmental performance.
• Follow Heidelberg Materials policies and procedures at all times.
• Undertake any additional duties appropriate to the apprenticeship programme and training objectives.

What We're Looking For

• Enjoy practical, hands-on work.
• Have a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Can work safely and follow procedures.
• Have good communication and teamwork skills.
• Are reliable, motivated, and committed to completing an apprenticeship programme.
• Are interested in construction materials, manufacturing, engineering, or operations.

Essential Requirements

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above, or equivalent.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Ability to travel to college on a day-release basis and attend site each day.

What You'll Gain

• A nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification.
• Hands-on experience in a leading construction materials business.
• Training on industry-standard plant equipment and technology.
• Support from experienced mentors and operational leaders.
• Opportunities for long-term career progression within Heidelberg Materials.
• A strong foundation in health and safety, quality, environmental management, and operational excellence.

Why Heidelberg Materials?

At Heidelberg Materials, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We believe that different perspectives strengthen our business and help us deliver better results for our customers and communities. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

We also offer a range of benefits, such as access to our Employee Assistance Program, trained mental health first aiders, discounted private medical benefits and much more, to ensure your wellbeing is prioritized.

Heidelberg Materials is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

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We understand that women may face unique challenges in their careers, and we are committed to providing a supportive environment to help you thrive. Our family-friendly policies, such as enhanced maternity and parental leave, neonatal care, and adoption support, will provide you with the flexibility and support you need to balance your personal and professional commitments.

Please contact Recruitment@uk.heidelbergmaterials.com for additional information or to request accommodations.