General operative

Heidelberg Materials Limited; Leeds; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program

Discounted private medical benefits

Enhanced maternity and parental leave

Job summary

Heidelberg Materials UK is seeking a General Operative – Asphalt to control and maintain the asphalt plant, ensuring products meet strict quality standards. You will work closely with site management to support production planning and plant performance while upholding safety practices.

The role requires hands-on operating experience, a strong safety mindset, and the ability to work independently as well as in a team. EPIC certification and NVQ Level 2 in Mobile Plant Operations are preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience operating plant or heavy machinery in industrial environments.
• Understanding health and safety regulations in quarry/construction settings.
• Willingness to obtain EPIC/Mobile Plant Ops qualifications and maintain competence.

Responsibilities

• Operate both static and mobile asphalt plant safely and efficiently.
• Carry out routine start-up and shutdown procedures.
• Perform inspections and monitoring of plant equipment.
• Carry out basic maintenance and fault-finding within competence.
• Maintain accurate operation and maintenance records.
• Report defects and support safety culture on site.

Skills

Heavy machinery

Plant operation

Safety consciousness

Teamwork

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Mobile Plant Operations

EPIC certification

Job description

## General operativeApplylocations: Leedstime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todaytime left to apply: End Date: August 27, 2026 (27 days left to apply)job requisition id: JR10017092Heidelberg 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 – Asphalt****Join Heidelberg Materials and Help Build the UK's Infrastructure**Are you a hands-on individual who enjoys working outdoors, operating machinery, and being part of a team that keeps essential materials moving? Heidelberg Materials is looking for a **General Operative – Asphalt** to join our operation and play a key role in the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of asphalt materials.This is an excellent opportunity for someone with plant operating experience, a strong safety mindset, and a practical approach to maintenance and problem-solving.**The Role**As a General Operative – Asphalt, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operation, inspection, and maintenance of the asphalt plant, ensuring products consistently meet our high-quality standards. You will contribute to production planning, plant performance, equipment reliability, and site safety while supporting the efficient operation of both static and mobile plant.Working closely with site management, you will help maximise production, maintain operational excellence, and support continuous improvement across the site.**Key Responsibilities*** Operate both static and mobile plant safely and efficiently.* Assist in the production and manufacture of asphalt materials to quality specifications.* Carry out plant start-up and shut-down procedures.* Complete routine inspections and monitoring of plant equipment.* Perform basic maintenance and repair work within your level of competence.* Maintain accurate operational and maintenance records.* Refuel, grease, clean, and maintain mobile plant in line with manufacturer and company standards.* Operate mobile plant equipment, including Front-End Loaders (FELs) and dumpers.* Complete daily inspection reports for static and mobile plant.* Report defects, faults, and maintenance requirements to the Site Supervisor.* Submit near-miss reports and actively support a strong safety culture.* Operate machinery in an energy-efficient and environmentally responsible manner.* Support activities at other Heidelberg Materials sites within a reasonable travelling distance when required.**What We're Looking For*** Experience operating plant or heavy machinery in an industrial, quarrying, construction, or manufacturing environment.* Strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards.* Good practical maintenance and fault-finding skills.* Reliable with excellent timekeeping and attendance.* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.* Flexible approach to work and willingness to support wider site operations when required.**Qualifications & Requirements*** Good general education.* Understanding of health and safety regulations and quarry operations.* EPIC certification to operate mobile plant.* NVQ Level 2 in Mobile Plant Operations (or willingness to obtain following EPIC completion).* Full commitment to safe working practices and company procedures.**Why Join Heidelberg Materials?**At Heidelberg Materials, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace where our people can develop their skills and build long-term careers. You'll be joining a business that plays a vital role in delivering the materials needed to build and maintain the nation's infrastructure.If you're motivated, safety-focused, and ready to take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you.**Apply today and become part of a team that keeps Britain building.**At Heidelberg Materials UK (previously known as Hanson UK) we strive to create an inclusive and respectful workplace where every individual can bring their unique skills and background to contribute to the success of our business.### About usAt Heidelberg Materials UK (previously known as Hanson UK), we understand that a diverse workforce is key to our growth and development, and we aim to foster a culture that values openness, transparency, and individual achievement.As part of our commitment to promoting diversity, we are actively working to encourage more individuals to consider careers within the construction industry.We believe in building a workplace that is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and diversity.If you're interested in joining our team, we encourage you to apply, even if your experience or skill set doesn't perfectly align with the job description. Creating a candidate home page is optional, when asked, but you can use this to quickly see the progress of your application(s).You may still be the right fit for this or other roles within our company.Heidelberg Materials is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process. For quick access to screen reading technology compatible with this site click here to download a free compatible screen reader (free step by step tutorial can be found here). Please contact [e-mail] for additional information or to request accommodations.We understand that women may face unique challenges in their careers, and we are committed to providing a supportive environment to help you thrive.Our family-friendly policies, such as enhanced maternity and parental leave, neonatal care, and adoption support, will provide you with the flexibility and support you need to balance your personal and professional commitments.We also offer a range of benefits, such as access to our Employee Assistance Program, trained mental health first aiders, discounted private medical benefits and much more, to ensure your wellbeing is prioritized.