Plant Operative

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Beccles is seeking a Process Plant Operative for a hands-on role in a 24/7 facility. The ideal candidate will have safety awareness, operational experience, and strong problem-solving skills. The role includes a rotating 4 on, 4 off shift pattern, offering a great work-life balance. Training and development opportunities are provided, along with a pension scheme.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Opportunities for training and development

Structured work schedule

Qualifications

• Essential GCSEs or equivalent in English, Maths, and Science.
• Desirable NVQ Level 2/3 in Process Operations.
• 1–3 years’ experience in manufacturing or process environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor process plant equipment and control systems.
• Perform start-ups, shutdowns, and adjustments per SOPs.
• Carry out routine inspections and maintain records.
• Support fault diagnosis and assist in minor repairs.
• Collaborate with engineering teams during breakdowns.
• Maintain a safe and efficient working environment.

Skills

Excellent process safety awareness

Mechanical understanding

Follow technical documentation

Strong problem-solving skills

Effective communication skills

High attention to detail

Physically fit

Education

GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science

NVQ Level 2/3 in Process Operations

Certification in COSHH

Tools

SCADA

DCS

Job description

Job Opportunity: Process Plant Operative – 4 On, 4 Off Shift Pattern
Location: Beccles, Suffolk
Salary: £15-£16ph

About the Role
We are currently recruiting for an experienced and reliable Process Plant Operative to join a busy 24/7 manufacturing or processing operation in the Beccles area. This is a hands-on role ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a technical environment and are committed to safety and efficiency.

The role operates on a 4 on, 4 off rotating shift pattern, covering both days (06:00–18:00) and nights (18:00–06:00), offering excellent work-life balance and regular extended time off.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor process plant equipment, instrumentation, and control systems (e.g., SCADA/DCS)
• Perform start-ups, shutdowns, and adjustments in line with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Carry out routine inspections, collect data (e.g., flow rates, pressures, temperatures), and maintain accurate records
• Support fault diagnosis and assist in minor maintenance or repairs
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams during breakdowns or shutdowns
• Maintain a safe, clean, and efficient working environment
• Adhere to all relevant health, safety, quality, and environmental procedures

What We’re Looking For

✅ Qualifications:

• GCSEs or equivalent in English, Maths, and Science – Essential
• NVQ Level 2/3 in Process Operations or similar – Desirable
• Additional certifications (COMAH, COSHH, IOSH, confined space) – Advantageous

✅ Experience:

• 1–3 years’ experience in a process, production, or manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with control systems (DCS/SCADA), batch or continuous processing – Desirable

✅ Key Skills:

• Excellent process safety awareness and mechanical understanding
• Able to follow technical documentation and SOPs accurately
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure
• Team player with effective communication skills
• High attention to detail and good record-keeping habits
• Physically fit and able to work in demanding environments (heat, noise, PPE required)

Working Pattern
Shift Structure (16-day cycle):

• 4 Days On (06:00–18:00)
• 4 Days Off
• 4 Nights On (18:00–06:00)
• 4 Days Off
Includes weekends and holidays on a rotating basis

What’s in it for You?

• Pension scheme
• Opportunities for training, development, and career progression
• Structured work schedule offering predictable time off