Shovel Driver/Plant Operative – Chelmsford

Permanent, Full Time £28,033 per annum

Location: Chelmsford

Closing date: 20th March 2026

In addition to an annual salary you will also receive a 6% flat rate allowance for working Sundays. Full valid driving licence required. Material Handler and Loading Shovel Qualification desirable but not essential as full training will be provided. Weekend work is required every two weeks.

The Opportunity

A multi‑task role from managing and controlling all tipping hall operations to being accountable for ensuring articulated vehicles are loaded safely and in accordance with KPI’s within the Essex County Council Waste service. Managing on site traffic management for multiple local district councils and 3rd parties to ensure contractual tipping arrangements are met and carried out safely. Directly responsible for the safe and proper operation and maintenance of any site vehicle under their use. This includes liaising with the Site Supervisor/Operations Manager for repairs and servicing of all equipment on site including scheduling works/contractors to avoid impact on the service. Responsible for operating the front‑loading shovel and 360‑degree wheeled materials handler to move, load and transport waste safely and competently. Lead on ensuring all site users within the tipping hall operation are following site rules and in accordance with Health and Safety and Environmental policies and procedures.

Accountabilities

• Lead on all mobile plant operations as required to safely contain and manage waste tipped from RCV’s, including pushing up waste using the loading shovel as well as loading lorries.
• Accountable for following the site‑specific rules at all waste facilities operated by Essex County Council.
• Ensure all site users comply with site rules and where required enforce site rules by inducting and training individuals.
• Accountable for the pre‑use inspections of the plant or equipment assigned for operation, reporting any defects prior to shift start and undertaking general maintenance and preventive maintenance activities.
• When not operating plant or vehicles other duties may be required such as weighbridge or assisting the site supervisor with site inspections and paperwork.
• Responsible for routine cleaning to ensure the site is free from litter and to contain and dispose of any spillages.
• Ensure that all resources used (e.g., equipment, machinery and buildings) are kept safe, in good order and condition and are not exposed to the risk of loss, damage or theft.
• Immediately report any contamination or non‑conforming wastes delivered to site, accidents, incidents, near misses and environmental hazards to the line manager.
• Carry out any other duties commensurate with the post as required to meet the needs of the service.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Qualifications/Training – Full valid driving licence. Material Handler and Loading Shovel Qualification desirable but not essential as full training will be provided.
• Previous experience of working within the waste industry desirable but not essential.
• Knowledge – Understanding of waste operations desirable. Mechanical knowledge.
• Experience – Previous experience operating plant machinery preferably within the waste industry. Experience working with the public desirable. Manual handling experience.
• Skills – Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Able to understand written and verbal instruction.
• Character – Self‑motivated with the willingness to undertake further training when required. Able to work outdoors for long periods and in all weather conditions with appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
• Availability/Locality/Mobility – Largely based at a council waste transfer station but may be required to work at any other location as required.

Note: The job role requires you to be mobile throughout an operational area. Therefore, the post holder will need to have a driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means.