Waste Management Machine Operator

Job Title: Machine Operator

Location: Desford Depot
Department: MRF Operations
Reports To: Site Supervisor
Employment Type:Temporary

Job Purpose:

To operate machinery and support daily waste management operations at a licensed waste exemption site, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant handling of materials. The role involves feeding a baler, manual sorting, maintaining cleanliness, and adhering to health and safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

• Machine Operation:
  • Operate and monitor baling equipment to process recyclable materials such as cardboard, paper, and plastics.
  • Ensure machinery is used safely and efficiently, reporting faults or maintenance needs promptly.
• Material Handling:
  • Manually sort and pick waste materials from the floor as required.
  • Ensure waste types are segregated correctly in line with site compliance and exemption conditions.
• Site Housekeeping:
  • Maintain a clean and tidy working environment, including sweeping, litter control, and waste containment.
  • Assist in the upkeep of outdoor storage areas to prevent litter escape and fire hazards.
• Health & Safety:
  • Follow all site-specific health and safety procedures and wear appropriate PPE at all times.
  • Participate in safety briefings, toolbox talks, and training sessions.
  • Report hazards, near misses, and incidents immediately.
• Compliance Support:
  • Support the site's efforts to maintain compliance with Environment Agency regulations, including waste segregation and fire prevention controls.
  • Assist with documentation and photographic evidence collection for audits or inspections.
• Team Collaboration:
  • Work closely with other operatives, supervisors, and management to meet operational goals.
  • Assist with other reasonable duties as directed, including loading/unloading, site maintenance, and supporting visitors or contractors.

Skills & Experience Required:

• Previous experience in a waste management, recycling, or industrial environment preferred.
• Familiarity with operating balers or similar machinery is advantageous.
• Basic understanding of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Physically fit and capable of manual handling tasks.
• Good communication skills and a proactive attitude.

Training Provided:

• Full induction and on-the-job training.
• Health & Safety and Fire Prevention awareness.
• Machine operation and maintenance basics.
• Waste handling and segregation procedures.

Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Salary:

• £13 PH

Essential Qualifications:

• Basic literacy and numeracy skills- required for understanding safety instructions and completing site records.
• Health & Safety Awareness Certificate- such as Level 1 or Level 2 in Health and Safety in the Workplace.

Preferred Certifications:

• NPORS or CPCS Certification- for operating plant machinery (e.g., balers, forklifts, telehandlers).
• Fire Safety Awareness Training- especially relevant due to fire prevention requirements at waste sites.
• First Aid at Work Certificate- beneficial for emergency response readiness.
• Manual Handling Training- to safely lift and move materials.
• Environmental Awareness Training- to understand waste segregation, pollution prevention, and site compliance.
• COSHH Awareness- for handling hazardous substances safely.
• Waste Management or Recycling Operations NVQ Level 2 or 3- desirable for career progression and technical competence.