Heavy Equipment Operator

3 weeks ago


Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom Essex County Council Full time

Heavy Equipment Operator

Permanent, Full Time

£23,344 to £27,033 per annum

Location: Colchester

Working Style: Fixed-base worker

Compensation Note: In addition to the annual salary, a 6% flat rate allowance is provided for participation in a weekend rota.

Position Overview

This role encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including overseeing and managing all operations within the tipping hall, ensuring that articulated vehicles are loaded securely and in compliance with key performance indicators. You will also be responsible for traffic management on-site for various local councils and third-party entities to ensure that contractual tipping agreements are fulfilled safely.

Your primary duty will be to operate and maintain site vehicles safely. This includes coordinating with the Site Supervisor or Operations Manager for necessary repairs and servicing of all equipment, ensuring minimal disruption to service.

As the operator of the front-loading shovel and 360-degree wheeled materials handler, you will be tasked with the safe movement, loading, and transportation of waste materials.

You will lead efforts to ensure that all site personnel adhere to established site regulations and comply with Health and Safety and Environmental policies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee all mobile plant operations to safely manage waste received from refuse collection vehicles, including pushing waste using the loading shovel and loading trucks.
  • Ensure compliance with site-specific regulations at all waste facilities managed by the council.
  • Supervise site personnel to ensure adherence to site rules, providing training and induction as necessary.
  • Conduct pre-use inspections of assigned plant or equipment, reporting any defects before the start of your shift, and perform general and preventive maintenance tasks.
  • When not operating machinery, assist with other duties such as managing the weighbridge or supporting the site supervisor with inspections and documentation.
  • Maintain cleanliness on-site, ensuring it is free from litter and properly managing any spillages.
  • Safeguard all resources, including equipment and facilities, ensuring they are maintained in good condition and protected from loss or damage.
  • Promptly report any contamination, non-compliant waste deliveries, accidents, incidents, near misses, and environmental hazards to your supervisor.
  • Perform any additional duties as required to meet the operational needs of the service.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Training: A full valid driving license is required. While qualifications in Material Handling and Loading Shovel operation are preferred, training will be provided for suitable candidates. Experience in the waste management sector is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • Knowledge: Familiarity with waste operations is beneficial, along with mechanical knowledge.
  • Experience: Prior experience operating plant machinery, ideally within the waste sector, is preferred. Experience in public interaction is also desirable.
  • Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities are essential. Candidates should be able to comprehend both written and verbal instructions.
  • Character: Self-motivated individuals who are willing to pursue further training are encouraged to apply. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions with appropriate protective gear.
  • Mobility: The role primarily involves working at a council Waste Transfer Station, but flexibility to work at other locations may be required.

Commitment to Diversity

Essex County Council is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and are committed to interviewing all disabled applicants who meet the minimum job requirements. We also welcome applications from veterans and care leavers.

Next Steps

If you are interested in this opportunity, please consider applying through the appropriate channels.

Safeguarding Commitment

Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, expecting all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.



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