General Operative in Gunnislake

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.

General Operative Location: Hingston Down Salary: Competitive + Benefits

Join a Leading Construction Materials Business

At Heidelberg Materials, we are committed to building a sustainable future through innovation, safety, and operational excellence. We are looking for a motivated and safety-conscious General Operative to join our team and play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our site. This is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career within a global business that values teamwork, development, and continuous improvement.

About the Role

As a General Operative, you will be responsible for supporting daily production activities while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and environmental compliance. You will operate and maintain both static and mobile plant equipment, carry out inspections, and contribute to the efficient running of site operations. Working as part of a collaborative team, you will help ensure production targets are met whilst maintaining a safe and tidy working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate mobile plant and site equipment.
• Operate static plant machinery efficiently and in accordance with site procedures.
• Complete pre-start, operational, and post-operational inspections, accurately recording observations and reporting defects.
• Carry out routine maintenance checks in line with manufacturer and Heidelberg Materials recommendations.
• Support load and haul, processing, and materials handling activities.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards across the site.
• Ensure compliance with all Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.
• Report hazards, unsafe acts, and near misses as required.
• Welcome visitors to site, ensuring sign-in procedures are followed and contractor inductions are completed where necessary.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to support safe and efficient production processes.

What We're Looking For

• A strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• Reliable with excellent timekeeping and attendance.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work in an operational environment and follow site procedures.
• A good general level of education, with the ability to understand and follow health and safety regulations.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

Previous experience operating mobile or static plant equipment. Relevant plant operation qualifications or licences. Willingness to work towards and achieve NVQ/QCF qualifications in static and mobile plant operations where required.

Why Heidelberg Materials?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Career development and training opportunities.
• Support to gain industry-recognised qualifications.
• Be part of a global organisation committed to sustainability and innovation.
• Work within a supportive and safety-focused team environment.

At Heidelberg Materials UK (previously known as Hanson UK) we strive to create an inclusive and respectful workplace where every individual can bring their unique skills and background to contribute to the success of our business. At Heidelberg Materials UK (previously known as Hanson UK), we understand that a diverse workforce is key to our growth and development, and we aim to foster a culture that values openness, transparency, and individual achievement. As part of our commitment to promoting diversity, we are actively working to encourage more individuals to consider careers within the construction industry. We believe in building a workplace that is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and diversity.

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

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. 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.