About The Role
Shovel Driver/Plant Operative
Permanent, Full Time
£29,015 per annum plus 6% flat rate allowance (£1,681.98) for weekend working.
Location: Colchester
Working Style: Fixed-base worker
Closing Date: 30th June 2026
Weekend working required – average 37 hours per week.
Core Responsibilities
- Manage and control all tipping hall operations, ensuring articulated vehicles and site equipment are loaded safely and in line with KPIs.
- Operate the front-loading shovel and 360‑degree wheeled materials handler to move, load and transport waste safely and competently.
- Maintain all site vehicles, including liaising with the Site Supervisor/Operations Manager for repairs, servicing and scheduling contractors.
- Ensure site users comply with rules, Health and Safety and Environmental policies, and enforce site rules by induction and training.
- Perform pre‑use inspections of plant and equipment, report defects before shift start, and undertake general and preventive maintenance activities.
- Assist with additional duties such as Weighbridge operations, site inspections, paperwork and routine cleaning to keep the site free from litter and spills.
- Report any contamination or non‑conforming waste, accidents, incidents, near misses and environmental hazards to the line manager immediately.
- Carry out any other duties commensurate with the post as requested to meet the needs of the service.
Qualifications & Experience
- Full valid driving licence required.
- Material Handler and Loading Shovel Qualification desirable but not essential (full training will be provided).
- Previous experience operating plant machinery preferably within the waste industry.
- Knowledge of waste operations and mechanical knowledge is desirable.
- Experience working with the public and manual handling experience.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to understand written and verbal instruction.
- Self‑motivated and willing to undertake further training; able to work outdoors for long periods and in all weather conditions with appropriate protective clothing/equipment.
- Availability to work at the council Waste Transfer Station and on other locations as required.
Additional Information
The role requires mobility throughout an operational area; a driving licence and access to a vehicle, or other means to meet mobility requirements, are necessary.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements of the job. We also commit to interviewing all veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements.
All employees and volunteers are expected to uphold the safeguarding and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and to adhere to the council’s code of conduct and Nolan principles.
Points of Contact
For job-related queries or further information, please email resourcing.team@essex.gov.uk.
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