Plant Operative in Dartford

Location: Dartford / On-site

Salary/package: £30,242.94 per annum

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: Full time, 40 hours per week (including weekend working)

We're looking for a Plant Operative who will work as part of a team at our recycling centres in Kent. This role would suit an experienced plant operative or site‑based worker who is confident operating plant equipment and working in a busy outdoor environment, offering the opportunity to work as part of a supportive frontline team delivering essential public services. This vacancy is a split role working as a plant machine operative and site operative. It is essential that the successful candidate holds a NPORS, ITSSAR or equivalent accredited body operative competence certificate to operate a wheeled Materials handler (wheeled 360 with elevating cab).

Why this role matters

You will play a key role in ensuring recycling centres operate safely, efficiently and in line with legislation, supporting both staff and customers on site. This is a role where sound judgement, strong health and safety awareness and teamwork are essential, with responsibility for plant operation and supporting overall site performance.

What you’ll be doing

• Operating site plant safely in line with training, risk assessments and site procedures.
• Carrying out pre‑use checks and inspections and reporting faults or defects.
• Ensuring plant equipment is cleaned, secured and shut down correctly at the end of shifts.
• Supporting day‑to‑day site operations alongside Site Operatives.
• Maintaining a clean, safe and well‑organised site environment.
• Managing traffic and pedestrian movement to ensure safety.
• Assisting customers with waste disposal and recycling.
• Identifying waste that requires special handling and escalating issues promptly.
• Using digital devices to manage bookings, vouchers and chargeable waste payments.
• Completing site paperwork and records accurately.

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience operating plant machinery in a site‑based or industrial environment.
• Accredited plant operating certificates such as NPORS, ITSSAR or equivalent accredited body operative competence certificate.
• Strong awareness of health and safety practices.
• The ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Good communication skills and confidence dealing with the public.
• The ability to follow procedures and work effectively as part of a team.
• A proactive, reliable and safety‑focused approach to work.
• Must be willing to work weekends, rest days being Wednesday and Thursday. There may be some flexibility in the working pattern.

What you’ll get in return

• Salary of £30,242.94 per annum.
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 after four years.
• Birthday Day Off.
• One concessionary day during the Christmas period.
• Pension scheme with employer contribution.
• Life assurance cover.

Inclusion & Accessibility

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We encourage applications from suitably qualified people of all backgrounds. As a member of Inclusive Employers and a Working Families Employer, we are actively building an environment that supports inclusion, flexibility and belonging for all colleagues. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our application and interview process. Please let us know if you require any.