At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to collect and recycle waste, working outdoors in all weather.
- Company: Newcastle-under-Lyme Council, committed to community transformation.
- Benefits: Earn £13.69 per hour with flexible shifts and early finishes.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on your community while enjoying an active role.
- Qualifications: Experience in collection services and strong health and safety knowledge.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
Overview
Salary: £13.69 per hour - casual/zero hours
Hours: You will be required to work shifts between Monday to Saturday, usually, but not always, between 6am to 2pm, covering key operations over the next 6 months.
Contract: Casual
Location: Kutton Lane Depot, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Responsibilities
- You will be physically fit, enjoy being part of a team, able to walk long distances and prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- You may have experience in collection services and will need to follow instructions, always work in a professional manner in line with our policies and guidelines.
- You will safely bring containers to vehicles to empty them, then return them, working in a way which is safe for you and the rest of the team, reporting issues and providing feedback to your Driver Team Leader and dealing politely with residents and customers.
- There is an early start to the working day, at 6am, but there is also an early finish at 2pm, giving you time to enjoy the rest of your day.
- We work on Bank Holidays and only on rare occasions where we have to re-schedule collections would you be asked to work weekends.
- If you’re physically fit, enthusiastic and positive, and enjoy working outdoors as an active member of a team, this role could be for you.
- You will also have sound health and safety knowledge.
- You’ll be able to communicate well with other team members and the public.
Requirements
- Previous experience of working on Collection Services
- Ability to follow instructions and work in a professional manner
- Good understanding of health and safety
- Able to work well in a team
Why work for us?
Newcastle-under-Lyme is a borough with big ambitions. We’ve already started our transformation, however, we still need to find better ways of doing things because we are determined to do the very best we can for our communities.
If our vision is to be the best, then we need the best people working for us. Our people are at the heart of what we do and have the freedom to innovate, grow and develop. We recruit people who share our vision and values; people who have the drive to deliver our ambitious Council plan.
Our historic Borough is a place of marked contrasts. We are the home of a world class University at Keele, a leading light known internationally for its research and sustainability record, which stands side by side with former mining communities including some which register amongst the most deprived areas in the country. Our Borough is also a mixture of urban centres, affected by some of the same social issues facing our neighbouring city, Stoke-on-Trent, but also outstanding rural landscapes in our less populated villages. Our plans and priorities aim to address the needs of all our communities.
Contact
Richard Amison - Richard.Amison@newcastle-staffs.gov.uk
Closing date: 5pm on Monday 30 March 2026
Should we receive a large number of applications, then this post could close sooner than the date stated. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date.
Interview date: Friday 3 April 2026
While we value diverse backgrounds and experiences, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must be able to prove they have the Right to Work in the U.K.
Recycling and Waste Collections Operative - Casual employer: Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Recycling and Waste Collections Operative - Casual
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Newcastle-under-Lyme and its values. When you show that you understand their mission and community goals, it’ll make you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready for the physical side of things! Since this role is all about being active outdoors, make sure you highlight your fitness and any relevant experience in collection services during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to interact with team members and the public, so think of examples where you’ve successfully communicated or resolved issues in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Recycling and Waste Collections Operative - Casual
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for working outdoors and being part of a team shine through. We want to see that you're excited about the role and ready to contribute positively to our community.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've got previous experience in collection services or similar roles, make sure to mention it! We love seeing how your background aligns with what we do, so don’t hold back on those details.
Follow Instructions Carefully: Pay close attention to the application guidelines. We appreciate candidates who can follow instructions and present their information clearly and professionally, just like we expect on the job!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Recycling and Waste Collections Operative. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks, like safely handling containers and working as part of a team. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since this job requires teamwork, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate well and follow instructions, as these are crucial for keeping operations running smoothly.
✨Demonstrate Your Physical Fitness
Given the physical demands of the job, be prepared to discuss your fitness level and any relevant experience you have in similar roles. You might want to mention any outdoor activities you enjoy or how you stay active, as this shows you're ready for the early starts and long shifts.
✨Health and Safety Knowledge is Key
Brush up on your health and safety knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you would handle potential hazards on the job and why safety is important in waste collection. This will demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to a safe working environment.