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