At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to package and process products safely and efficiently.
- Company: Imerys, a global leader in mineral-based solutions with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, private medical insurance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Great opportunities for progression within a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Hands-on role with training provided, perfect for those who take pride in quality work.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and a proactive attitude; experience in production is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 25445 - 25445 £ per year.
The Company
Imerys is the world’s leading supplier of mineral-based specialty solutions for the industry with €3.4 billion in revenue and 12,300 employees in 40 countries in 2025. The Group offers high value-added and functional solutions to a wide range of industries and fast-growing markets such as solutions for the energy transition and sustainable construction, as well as natural solutions for consumer goods. Imerys draws on its understanding of applications, technological knowledge, and expertise in material science to deliver solutions which contribute essential properties to customers’ products and their performance. As part of its commitment to responsible development, Imerys promotes environmentally friendly products and processes in addition to supporting its customers in their decarbonization efforts.
The Position
Job Summary
- Location: Lee Moor Herreschoff, Plymouth
- Salary: £25,445.42 per annum + £6,461.65 shift allowance
- Hours: 38.5 hours per week
- Shift Pattern: Rotating 12-hour day and night shifts (1 hour breaks)
- Contract: Full Time, Permanent
What We Offer
At Imerys, our people are at the heart of our success. Safety is our number one priority and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can develop, grow and reach their full potential. In return, you'll receive:
- Competitive salary and shift allowance
- 19 days (12 hours days) + holiday plus Bank Holidays
- Generous pension scheme
- Life Assurance
- Income Protection
- Private Medical Insurance
- Company Sick Pay
- Enhanced family-friendly policies
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Employee Discount Portal
- Wellbeing support and health initiatives
- Career development and progression opportunities
About Our Opportunity
We're looking for an Operative to join our team at Lee Moor Herreschoff. This role plays an important part in ensuring our products are packaged, processed and dispatched safely, efficiently and to the highest quality standards. You'll work as part of a close-knit shift team operating bagging and IBC equipment, supporting production activities and helping to maintain the safe and effective operation of the plant. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in maintaining high standards and wants to build a long-term career within manufacturing. Full training will be provided, including training on specialist plant and equipment.
What You'll Be Doing
- Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Working safely at all times and following all site Health & Safety procedures.
- Completing safety checks and inspections.
- Following Risk Assessments, Safe Systems of Work and Take 5 procedures.
- Supporting a strong safety culture across the site.
- Maintaining high standards of housekeeping and environmental compliance.
- Production Operations
- Operating the IBC and bagging production lines.
- Operating the Polarite plant following training.
- Monitoring product quality and carrying out routine checks.
- Taking production samples and completing quality control activities.
- Ensuring production consumables are available and replenished.
- Loading, unloading and moving materials around site.
- Plant & Equipment
- Operating forklift trucks and mobile plant where trained.
- Carrying out pre-use inspections.
- Reporting equipment issues promptly.
- Supporting maintenance and operational activities when required.
- Teamwork & Continuous Improvement
- Working closely with colleagues and Shift Supervisors.
- Maintaining accurate operational records.
- Supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
- Contributing to production and efficiency targets.
What Good Looks Like
This role will suit someone who:
- Takes safety seriously.
- Enjoys practical, hands-on work.
- Has a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
- Works well as part of a team.
- Can adapt to changing priorities.
- Takes pride in maintaining high standards of quality and housekeeping.
- Enjoys learning new skills and developing their knowledge.
What You'll Bring
Essential Criteria
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Reliable transport due to the remote location of the site.
- Good communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- A proactive and flexible approach to work.
- Commitment to Health & Safety.
- Ability to work rotating day and night shifts.
- Experience working within a production, manufacturing, warehouse or industrial environment.
Desirable Criteria
- Forklift Truck Licence (Reach or Counterbalance).
- Mobile plant experience.
- SAP experience.
- SCADA or process control system experience.
- Previous experience within manufacturing or mineral processing operations.
- Knowledge of Continuous Improvement principles.
Development Opportunities
This role offers genuine opportunities for progression within Imerys. Successful Operatives can develop their skills across multiple areas of the plant and progress into roles such as:
- Kiln Operator
- Deputy Shift Supervisor
- Shift Supervisor
Training and development are an important part of our culture, and we actively support employees who want to grow their careers with us.
Why Imerys?
At Imerys, you'll be part of a global business where safety, quality, teamwork and continuous improvement matter. You'll join a supportive team environment with excellent training, opportunities for progression and the chance to build a long-term career.
Closing date for applications 13th October 2026
Position Type: Full time and Permanent
Operative-1 employer: Imerys
Imerys is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where safety and teamwork are paramount. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, you will have access to training opportunities and the chance to contribute to sustainable practices in a leading global company. Working at our Rocks and Treviscoe sites not only provides a fulfilling role as a Clay Loader but also places you at the heart of innovative solutions for various industries.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative-1
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨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!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Imerys, 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Operative-1
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 Imerys 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 Imerys
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Imerys, 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 Imerys 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.
