Job Description
Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK.
We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We aim to promote a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement.
At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.
General Operative
Join Heidelberg Materials and Help Build the Future
Are you someone who enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in maintaining high standards, and has a strong commitment to safety? Heidelberg Materials is looking for a motivated General Operative to join our team and play a key role in the safe and efficient operation of our site.
This is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and become part of a team that delivers essential materials used in major construction and infrastructure projects across the UK.
The Opportunity
As a General Operative, you will be responsible for supporting the day-to-day running of site operations, ensuring plant, equipment, and processes are operated safely and efficiently. You will work across both static and mobile plant operations, supporting material processing, handling, rail loading activities, and maintaining excellent housekeeping standards.
Safety is at the heart of everything we do, and you'll play a vital role in maintaining a safe working environment for colleagues, contractors, and visitors.
What You'll Be Doing
Safely operate mobile and static plant equipment.
Carry out pre-start, operational, and post-operation inspections.
Record and report defects, hazards, and maintenance requirements.
Support the loading, handling, and processing of materials.
Assist with rail operations, including train and wagon inspections.
Complete near-miss reports and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintain high standards of housekeeping across the site.
Ensure compliance with company procedures, health and safety regulations, and environmental standards.
Welcome visitors to site, complete sign-in procedures, and support contractor inductions where required.
Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure production targets and operational standards are achieved.
Attend training and development programmes to gain and maintain operational competencies.
What We're Looking For
Essential
Strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards.
Good communication and teamwork skills.
Reliable with excellent timekeeping.
Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
Ability to work in an operational, industrial environment.
Positive attitude and a proactive approach to work.
Desirable
Previous experience operating mobile or static plant equipment.
Experience within quarrying, construction, manufacturing, rail, or heavy industrial environments.
NVQ/QCF qualifications in plant operations or a willingness to achieve these qualifications.
Why Heidelberg Materials?
At Heidelberg Materials, we invest in our people and provide opportunities to develop a rewarding long-term career. You'll be joining a business that values safety, teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.
What We Offer
Comprehensive training and development opportunities
Industry-recognised qualifications and certifications
Supportive team environment
Career progression opportunities
Competitive salary and benefits package
The opportunity to contribute to essential projects that shape communities across the UK
Ready to Get Started?
If you're looking for a role where every day is different, safety comes first, and your contribution truly matters, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and become part of a team that's building a better future.