Laboratory Process Operator

Tarmac Trading Limited; Dunbar; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus scheme

Pension scheme

Enhanced holiday entitlement

Employee discounts

Employee assistance

Job summary

Tarmac’s Cement Plant in Dunbar, Scotland is recruiting an experienced Laboratory Process Operator to join the Quality Team. The role involves testing and analysing production and final product samples to ensure quality and compliance in a 24/7 environment.

You will work with kiln feed and final cement products, interpreting results and maintaining safety and environmental standards. A driving licence and relevant qualifications are required.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs including Mathematics, English and Chemistry or equivalent.
• City & Guilds qualification or higher in a relevant scientific/technical discipline, or equivalent experience.
• IOSH qualification is desirable or required.

Responsibilities

• Collect, prepare and analyse samples including kiln feed, raw materials, cement and water samples.
• Perform physical, chemical and instrumental testing using lab equipment including XRF and XRD.
• Interpret and communicate results to support production and quality control.
• Ensure testing complies with BS:EN standards and CRH Quality Standards.
• Maintain accurate testing records and quality documentation.
• Respond to quality issues, deviations, or customer requests promptly.

Skills

Safety procedures

Detail oriented

Communication

Teamwork

Shift work

Education

GCSEs incl Maths English Chemistry

City & Guilds qualification in science/technical

IOSH qualification

Tools

XRF

XRD

Job description

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Laboratory Process Operator to join our Quality Team at Tarmac's Cement Plant in Dunbar, Scotland. The Laboratory Process Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the quality, consistency and compliance of our cement manufacturing process through the testing, analysis and interpretation of production and final product samples. Working within a 24/7 manufacturing environment, the Laboratory Process Operator is responsible for conducting routine and non-routine sampling and testing activities, analysing results using physical, chemical and instrumental techniques, and ensuring all testing meets the required internal and external standards. The role requires a high level of accuracy, attention to detail and a strong commitment to safety, quality and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with the laboratory team, Control Room Operators, Production, Process and Quarry teams to support operational excellence and maintain product quality across the plant. Here at Tarmac, we are working hard to create a dynamic and inclusive environment and it's important that our people come from a variety of different backgrounds.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• Collecting, preparing and analysing samples including kiln feed, raw materials, final product cements and water samples.
• Conducting physical, chemical and instrumental testing using laboratory equipment including XRF and XRD technologies.
• Interpreting and communicating test results to support production and quality control activities.
• Ensuring all testing is completed in accordance with relevant BS:EN standards and CRH Quality Technical Standards.
• Supporting day-to-day laboratory operations and maintaining accurate testing and quality records.
• Monitoring and reporting quality-related issues, abnormalities or deviations.
• Responding to customer testing and quality requests in a timely and professional manner.
• Ensuring compliance with statutory legislation and Tarmac Health, Safety and Environmental standards.
• Reporting and supporting the investigation of SHE incidents and near misses.
• Maintaining excellent housekeeping and laboratory standards at all times.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Laboratory Process Operator role will be a flexible, self-motivated individual with a positive attitude and a strong commitment to maintaining and improving Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality standards across the site.

Essential Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs (including Mathematics, English and Chemistry) or equivalent.
• City & Guilds qualification or higher qualification in a relevant scientific or technical discipline, or equivalent experience.
• IOSH qualification.

Desirable Qualifications

• IOSH qualification.

Experience and knowledge

• Laboratory experience within a manufacturing, cement, concrete or related industry environment.
• Knowledge of BS:EN 196 and BS:EN 197 standards.
• Knowledge of cement manufacturing and/or cementitious products.
• Experience of chemical analysis, sampling and testing techniques.
• IT literate with experience of Windows-based applications and laboratory recording systems.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Full UK driving licence.

Essential skills

• Comprehensive understanding of safety procedures.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritise workload and make effective decisions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrable planning and organisational skills.
• Resilience and the ability to work effectively in a shift environment.
• Team-oriented approach with a commitment to continuous improvement.

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 our Employee Communities, where you can network, learn from others, and increase your awareness of the support available to you

Our three Employee Communities are:

• Health and Wellbeing
• Inclusion and Identity
• Personal Growth and Development Training and development opportunities

Tarmac is committed to being a Forces‑friendly employer. If you’re coming from a military background, we’ll support your transition and help you build a successful career with us.

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.