Waste Operative Apprentice

NHS; Exeter; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK healthcare organization in Exeter seeks a Waste Operative Apprentice to support waste management and sustainability initiatives. This 18-month apprenticeship includes on-the-job training and classroom education to achieve a Level 2 Cleaning Hygiene Operative qualification. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic and capable of safely handling various waste streams. The position offers a 37.5-hour working week, including shifts and weekends.

Benefits

Healthcare discounts

Salary sacrifice options

NHS Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic and motivated to contribute to sustainability goals.
• Ability to follow routine procedures and instructions.
• Willingness to participate in training and personal development.

Responsibilities

• Collect and transport hazardous and clinical waste safely.
• Ensure waste segregation during transportation.
• Conduct maintenance checks on vehicles and trailers.
• Undertake weekly cleaning of electric vehicle trailers.

Skills

Proficient in safe handling of waste

Good communication skills

Ability to operate relevant vehicles

Education

Completion of Level 2 Cleaning Hygiene Operative

Job description

Waste Operative Apprentice

The closing date is 10 December 2025

The Waste department at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is looking for a Waste Apprentice who is enthusiastic, motivated, and passionate about helping the Trust achieve our sustainability goals. The correct apprenticeship for this role will be confirmed and discussed at interview.

• Provide an efficient and effective service for the collection of hazardous, clinical, domestic and recycling waste streams within the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital Wonford and the external sites covered by the Trust.
• Provide a collection service for used and soiled linens for the Linen Services Department.

Job responsibilities

• Understand routine work procedures learned on the job through instruction, practice, and short training sessions.
• Be proficient in the collection, safe handling, transportation and decanting of all waste streams in accordance with departmental and Trust policies and statutory regulations.
• Keep disposal cupboards clear and move waste to outside collection points, ensuring segregation during transportation.
• Drive/operate relevant vehicles and trailers within the hospital environment and external sites covered by the Trust.
• Conduct daily tug/van maintenance checks and report defects.
• Undertake weekly cleaning of electric vehicle trailers and vans.
• Ensure clinical waste containers are kept locked and tagged with correct colour‑coded waste stream.
• Clean domestic waste bins with pressure washer as requested.
• Collect, transport and decant bags of soiled linen in accordance with regulations and policies.
• Sort and consolidate waste at collection points and prepare for collection by contractors.
• Participate actively in personal development and training.

This Level 2 apprenticeship is an 18‑month training programme completed while working in the Waste Department at The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (Eastern Services). Training will be carried out through Exeter College on a day release basis during term time. You will study for a Level 2 – Cleaning Hygiene Operative, with on‑the‑job training also provided.

Working pattern: 37.5 hours per week (06:00‑14:00 / 08:00‑16:00 / 14:00‑22:00) including weekends and public bank holidays. One day per week is spent at Exeter College.

Interview date: To be confirmed.

For further information please contact: Garth Saunders, Portering Manager – 07770692677 or [e-mail].

Benefits

We offer a range of benefits including health‑care discounts, salary sacrifice options, nursery access, car lease schemes, and the NHS Pension scheme.

Inclusive Employer

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures and abilities. Preference will be given to staff with Priority and ‘At Risk’ status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

Employer Details

Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.