Kiln Process Operator

Acorn by Synergie; Glais; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A global mining company in the U.K. is looking for a Kiln Process Operator to manage production processes in a safe and efficient manner. The ideal candidate should possess a Craft or Process Apprenticeship and a BTEC National Certificate in Engineering. Responsibilities include operating kiln processes, maintaining high safety standards, and collaborating with peers. This is a full-time role in a stable environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and skills development.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Overtime pay at premium rate

Ongoing contract opportunities

Qualifications

• 6–18 months’ experience in an operational or process environment.
• Strong commitment to safety and quality.
• Basic IT and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate and control circuit processes.
• Uphold safety and housekeeping standards.
• Collaborate with colleagues to achieve production goals.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to Detail

Adaptability

Problem-solving

Education

Craft or Process Apprenticeship

BTEC National Certificate in Engineering

GCSEs or equivalent

Job description

Kiln Process Operator – Clydach, Swansea

Clydach, Swansea | £32,304 – £34,996.46 per annum + overtime paid at 1.75 premium + 10% annual bonus | Full time | 4 On 6 Off Shift Pattern | Ongoing contract

Introduction

Acorn by Synergie is recruiting a Kiln Process Operator on behalf of our prestigious client, Vale Europe, for ongoing positions at their world-renowned Mond Nickel Refinery in Clydach, Swansea.

The Mond Nickel Refinery is one of the world's leading nickel refineries, owned and operated by Vale Europe, part of one of the largest global mining companies. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a stable, safety‑driven, and world‑class engineering environment.

The Role

We are currently looking to recruit one Operator within the Kiln Plant. The ideal candidate will have previous experience working in a manufacturing environment, a flexible approach to work, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both individually and as part of a wider team. The candidate will also be required to work overtime when asked to do so. Experience of Process Plant Operations and an Engineering background will be desirable.

A good working knowledge of Safe Systems of Work and the ability to champion safety in the workplace are key requirements for this role. Continuous Improvement is an important factor within the Kiln Plant; the successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to CI.

Ideal candidates will have completed a Craft or Process Apprenticeship and have a minimum qualification of a BTEC National Certificate in Engineering or Process Operations or equivalent.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and control the Feeds, Hydrogen and Volat circuit processes.
• Uphold high standards of safety and housekeeping, following all company procedures and PPE requirements.
• Participate in safety activities, incident reporting, and process improvements.
• Collaborate with colleagues and maintenance teams to achieve production goals and maintain equipment.
• Support training of new team members and participate in ongoing skills development.
• Carry out basic maintenance and equipment checks, reporting any defects.

Requirements

• 6–18 months’ experience in an operational or process environment.
• GCSEs or equivalent.
• Willingness to work shifts and overtime as required.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.

The Ideal Candidate

• Holds a Craft or Process Apprenticeship, or BTEC National Certificate in Engineering/Process Operations (or equivalent).
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and quality.
• Possesses excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Shows attention to detail, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Has basic IT and analytical skills.
• Experience in operational or maintenance disciplines is an advantage.
• Able to demonstrate a commitment to Continuous Improvement.

Inclusive Environment

Vale is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

Sustainability

Vale is reinforcing its pact with society as it strives to meet all current demands of our planet. To align with world‑class sustainability best practices, Vale will invest at least US$ 2 billion in initiatives to reduce the company’s carbon emissions by 33% by 2030. This investment is the largest sum ever allocated by the mining industry in the fight against climate change and is part of Vale’s commitment to have a zero net carbon footprint in its operations by 2050.