Processing Operative

Imerys; Heathfield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday

Pension

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Income protection

Family-friendly policies

Cycle to Work

Employee assistance programme

Wellbeing support

Long-service recognition

Volunteer leave

Employee discounts

Sick pay

Job summary

Imerys in Newton Abbot is seeking a hands-on Processing Operative/Loading Shovel Driver for a 37.5-hour week on day shifts. The role involves operating loading shovel and production equipment, ensuring safe materials movement and target achievement.

The successful candidate will have 2+ years in loading shovel driving, a full UK driving licence, and a solid track record in an industrial setting with strong safety awareness. Benefits include a generous pension and health coverage.

Qualifications

• Two years experience of Loading Shovel driving and a full UK driving licence.
• Experience in an industrial, manufacturing, quarrying or production environment.
• Good numerical, written and basic IT skills with a focus on safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with a hands-on approach.

Responsibilities

• Operate loading shovel and plant equipment safely and efficiently.
• Run shredding, blending and milling processes.
• Carry out routine equipment checks and inspections.
• Complete pre-start safety checks and report defects.
• Support basic maintenance activities and maintain housekeeping.
• Work with production and maintenance colleagues to meet targets.

Skills

Loading shovel experience

Full UK driving licence

Industrial/manufacturing environment

Numerical skills

Written IT skills

Health and safety focus

Independent and team worker

Hands-on problem solving

Job description

The Company

Imerys is the world’s leading supplier of mineral-based specialty solutions for the industry with €3.4 billion in revenue and 12,300 employees in 40 countries in 2025. The Group offers high value‑added and functional solutions to a wide range of industries and fast‑growing markets such as solutions for the energy transition and sustainable construction, as well as natural solutions for consumer goods. Imerys draws on its understanding of applications, technological knowledge, and expertise in material science to deliver solutions which contribute essential properties to customers’ products and their performance. As part of its commitment to responsible development, Imerys promotes environmentally friendly products and processes in addition to supporting its customers in their decarbonization efforts.

The Position

Job Summary

Processing Operative/ Loading Shovel Driver

Day Shift | Monday to Friday | Newton Abbot

£27,573.14 + £1,918.80 Shift Allowance

Not everyone wants to spend their working week stuck behind a desk.

We're looking for a Processing Operative to join our team in Newton Abbot, helping to produce high‑quality mineral products used in industries around the world.

This is a hands‑on role where safety, teamwork and reliability matter. You'll spend much of your shift operating a loading shovel and production equipment, keeping materials moving efficiently through the process while helping us meet production targets safely and effectively.

The Shift Pattern

• 37.5 hours per week
• Monday to Friday only
• Rotating weekly shifts:
  • 6:00am - 2:00pm
  • 2:00pm - 10:00pm
• No regular weekend working

What You'll Be Doing

• Operating loading shovel and plant equipment safely and efficiently
• Running shredding, blending and milling processes
• Carrying out routine equipment checks and inspections
• Completing pre‑start safety checks
• Identifying and reporting equipment defects
• Supporting basic maintenance activities
• Maintaining high housekeeping standards across the site
• Working closely with production and maintenance colleagues
• Helping us achieve production targets without compromising safety or quality

What You'll Bring

• At least 2 years experience of Loading Shovel driving
• A full UK driving licence
• Experience working in an industrial, manufacturing, quarrying or production environment
• Good numerical, written and basic IT skills
• A strong focus on health and safety
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A practical, hands‑on approach to problem‑solving

Why Join Imerys?

At Imerys, we're proud of the role we play in delivering essential mineral solutions used in everyday products across the globe.

More importantly, we're committed to creating a safe, supportive workplace where people can build long‑term careers.

When You Join Us, You'll Benefit From

• 25 days' holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Generous pension scheme
• Private Medical Insurance
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Health and wellbeing support, including mental health resources, flu vouchers and eyecare vouchers
• Long‑service and recognition awards
• Paid volunteering leave and carers leave
• Employee discounts portal
• Sick Pay Scheme

What Good Looks Like

• Takes pride in doing the job properly
• Puts safety first, every time
• Enjoys working with equipment and machinery
• Can be relied upon by colleagues
• Maintains high standards of housekeeping and quality
• Works positively as part of a team

About Imerys

Imerys is the world's leading supplier of mineral-based speciality solutions. Our products and technologies support industries across the globe, helping customers improve performance while reducing environmental impact.

If you're looking for a stable role with a global business, a supportive team, and a genuine opportunity to build a long‑term career, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing date for applications 17th November 2026

Position Type

Full time and Permanent

Equal Opportunity

To ensure fairness and legal compliance in our recruitment processes, only applications received through the online application process will be considered.

IMERYS is an Aff…