At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to operate plant equipment and support concrete production across the South East.
- Company: Tarmac, a leading construction company prioritising safety and teamwork.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, enhanced holidays, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role while learning and growing your skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just a positive attitude and a full UK driving licence.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent support and training.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Relief Readymix Operative to join our Operations team covering the South East region, including Tilbury, Elstow, Cambridge and St Albans. This is a hands‑on operational role supporting day‑to‑day production activities across our Readymix sites. The successful candidate will help ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable running of the plant, supporting concrete batching, readymix operations, and general production tasks. Safety, quality, and operational discipline form the foundation of this role.
Main Responsibilities
- Plant & Production Operations
- Operating plant equipment including batching systems, fixed and mobile machinery (training provided if needed)
- Supporting site production activities such as stock management, inspections, and site operations
- Assisting with the safe and efficient production of Readymix concrete to meet customer and quality requirements
- Monitoring material levels and reporting stock needs
- Safety & Compliance
- Following all Health & Safety, environmental, and operational policies
- Completing daily checks, reporting defects, and supporting safe systems of work
- Ensuring site housekeeping is maintained to a high standard
- Customer & Haulier Interaction
- Coordinating with drivers and hauliers to support efficient collection and delivery
- Engaging with Distribution and Technical teams to support smooth site operations
- General Site Support
- Assisting contractors on site
- Supporting continuous improvement activities to enhance performance and site efficiency
- Adapting to changing site demands and assisting other operational areas when needed
The Ideal Candidate
We welcome candidates with experience in:
- Quarry operations
- Readymix or aggregates
- Heavy plant operation
- Manufacturing or production environments
Experience in quarrying or RMX is beneficial but not essential — full training will be provided. You will also be able to demonstrate:
- Strong commitment to safety
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work in a fast‑paced operational environment
- Good attention to detail
- Flexibility to support varying operational needs (including paid overtime)
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
Preferred (training can be provided):
- IOSH Working Safely
- NVQ in fixed and mobile plant operations
- Mobile plant tickets (loading shovel, ADT, etc.)
Essential Criteria
This role includes use of a company van, therefore a full UK driving licence is essential.
Why Tarmac
We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career. Alongside this role, you’ll have access to industry-leading rewards, development opportunities, and a culture that puts people first, including:
- Bonus scheme
- Enhanced holiday entitlement
- Contributory pension scheme
- Access to the Tarmac Reward website with discounts on retailers, holidays, etc.
- Access to our Employee Assistance helpline for free and confidential advice
- Access to join our Employee Communities (employee networks) we currently have nine communities inc.(REACH) Religious, Ethnic, Cultural Heritage, LGBTQ, Parents & carers, Ability, Wellbeing, Female voice and menopause
- Training and development opportunities
We’re proud to be part of CRH, and even prouder to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to support you.
Ready to build your future? Click ‘Apply’ to get started. Please note: we sometimes close roles early due to high interest, so don’t wait too long!
Relief Operative employer: Tarmac
Contact Detail:
Tarmac Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Tarmac and their operations. Understanding their values and culture will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. This can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing that Relief Operative position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this is a hands-on role, be ready to demonstrate your skills with plant equipment or discuss your experience in similar environments. Practising common operational tasks can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the Tarmac team. Don’t forget to follow up after applying!
We think you need these skills to ace Relief Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in plant operations or production environments. We want to see how your skills match the Relief Readymix Operative role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your strengths!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. Keep it friendly and professional, just like we do at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Safety Commitment: Safety is key in this role, so make sure to mention any relevant safety training or experiences you have. We love candidates who prioritise safety and can demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our fantastic team at Tarmac!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tarmac
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the basics of readymix operations and plant equipment. Brush up on your knowledge of batching systems and safety protocols, as this will show your commitment to the role and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Safety First
Since safety is a top priority in this role, be prepared to discuss how you’ve handled safety in previous jobs. Think of specific examples where you followed safety protocols or improved safety measures, as this will demonstrate your strong commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This job requires good communication and teamwork skills, so be ready to share experiences where you worked effectively with others. Highlight any instances where you coordinated with drivers or supported site operations, as this will showcase your ability to collaborate in a fast-paced environment.
✨Flexibility is Key
Be open about your willingness to adapt to changing site demands and take on varying operational needs. Mention any past experiences where you had to be flexible or take on additional responsibilities, as this will reflect your positive attitude and readiness to learn.