Loading Shovel Operative

Department: Operations and Maintenance

Location: Middleton Quarry, Durham

Description About Breedon Group: Breedon Group plc is a leading vertically integrated construction materials group in Great Britain, Ireland, and the USA. We're dedicated to providing high-quality materials and services for the construction industry, with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Joining Breedon means becoming part of a team that values excellence and is committed to making a positive impact.

Position Overview: We are looking for a reliable and hardworking Quarry Operative to join our quarrying team. In this hands-on role, you’ll assist in the extraction, processing, and handling of aggregates and materials to meet production targets safely and efficiently. You’ll operate heavy plant and equipment, carry out basic maintenance, and follow strict health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys practical outdoor work, machinery, and working as part of a team in a busy quarry environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate mobile and fixed plant (e.g. dump trucks, loading shovels, crushers, screeners) in a safe and efficient manner
• Assist in the extraction, crushing, and processing of raw materials
• Carry out routine checks, cleaning, and basic maintenance on machinery and equipment
• Load and unload materials safely for transport or further processing
• Follow daily work schedules and production instructions from supervisors
• Conduct regular safety checks and report any hazards, defects, or incidents
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations at all times
• Keep the quarry site clean, safe, and organised
• Assist with site inspections and support operational audits as required
• Work flexibly across different roles and tasks depending on site needs.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Essential

• Competence in operating plant or machinery (e.g. loading shovel, excavator, dumper truck) – CPCS or MPQC card advantageous
• Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to perform simple maintenance tasks
• Understanding of health and safety practices and willingness to follow procedures
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Safety-focused with a responsible attitude
• Willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated
• Flexible and able to adapt to different tasks and shift patterns

Desirable

• Previous experience in quarrying, construction, mining, or similar heavy industry
• MPQC or NVQ Level 2 in Extractives Operations
• First Aid or health & safety training (e.g. IOSH Working Safely)

Benefits

• A tailored, competitive salary
• Company Pension Scheme
• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays on top
• Share Saver Scheme participation
• Company Life Assurance Scheme
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing support
• Discounts on a wide range of products through our employee benefits platform
• Broad learning opportunities and career progression pathways.

Diversity Statement: At Breedon Group, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued. We believe in equality of opportunity for all and encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates.

Join Us: If you're looking for a role that challenges you, offers progression, and contributes to building better futures, we'd love to hear from you. This position is an opportunity to grow your career within a supportive and dynamic environment at Breedon Group.

Application Process: Ready to make a meaningful difference? Apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter. We look forward to considering your application and potentially welcoming you to our team.