General operative

Hanson Quarry Products Europe Limited; Leeds; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Heidelberg Materials UK is seeking a General Operative – Asphalt to join the team and help ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality production of asphalt materials.

The role involves operating static and mobile plant, assisting in production, and maintaining equipment with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability. EPIC and NVQ qualifications support a skilled candidate base for this hands‑on position.

Qualifications

• Experience operating plant or heavy machinery in an industrial environment.
• Strong commitment to health, safety and environmental standards.
• Good practical maintenance and fault-finding skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate both static and mobile plant safely and efficiently.
• Assist in production of asphalt to quality specifications.
• Carry out plant start‑up and shut‑down procedures.
• Complete routine inspections and monitoring of plant equipment.
• Perform basic maintenance within your competence.
• Maintain accurate operational records and reports.

Skills

Plant operation experience

Safety mindset

Fault-finding skills

Teamwork

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Mobile Plant Operations

EPIC certification to operate mobile plant

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 – 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.

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. At 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.

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.

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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.