Rail Operative in Frome

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.

Rail Operative – Whatley Quarry £13.68 per hour + Shift Allowance Rotating Shifts Heidelberg Materials UK is recruiting a Rail Operative at our Whatley site. This is a key operational role supporting the safe, efficient production and distribution of materials via our rail network. We’re looking for someone with a strong health & safety mindset, excellent timekeeping, and a proactive, hands‑on attitude.

What you’ll be doing

• Safely operate and supervise static and mobile plant, including rail load‑out systems and rail weighbridges.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety and environmental compliance at all times.
• Carry out and supervise general maintenance, inspections, and housekeeping in line with site regimes.
• Keep accurate operational and maintenance records in accordance with management requirements.
• Support the production and distribution of in‑specification materials to meet productivity and commercial targets.
• Attend training and assessments to maintain current and future competences.
• Contribute to a positive internal and external customer experience through professional conduct and teamwork.

What we’re looking for

• Strong Health & Safety focus and awareness.
• Proactive approach with excellent timekeeping and reliability.
• Experience operating fixed and mobile plant (rail environment experience is an advantage but not essential).
• Ability to follow procedures, keep accurate records, and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to undertake further training and development.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate plus shift allowance.
• Training and support to gain additional plant and rail‑related competencies.
• Opportunity to work in a key role within a major UK operation.
• Employee benefits, career development, and a supportive team environment.

Why Join us?

At Heidelberg Materials, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers. As a global leader in construction materials, we’re committed to innovation, sustainability, and, above all, our people.

Rewards & Benefits

• We’re proud to be recognised as an Employer of Choice, with accreditations including: Armed Forces Covenant (Gold), Disability Confident, 5% Club (Platinum), Mates in Mind, Clear Assured, STEM Ambassador, MPQC Member.
• Competitive Package: Salary, bonus incentives, generous pension, and life assurance.
• Family-Friendly Policies: Enhanced support for maternity, paternity, adoption, IVF, neonatal care, and menopause.
• Inclusive Culture: Paid volunteering day and active employee communities (LGBTQ+, Women in STEM, Armed Forces, and more).
• Wellbeing & Development: Employee Assistance Programme, retail discounts, and continuous learning opportunities.