Production Operative – Heavy Plant

About the role

The Production Operative will run heavy excavation equipment within Sims’ metal recycling facility, using specialised attachments to grade, sort and load scrap metal. The role focuses on safe, efficient plant operation to support the company’s circular economy objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and position the plant for daily operations, operating controls to excavate, break, move and load metal scrap and other recycled materials.
• Select, fit and change attachments such as buckets, hydraulic shears, grapples and magnets according to material requirements.
• Raise, lower and manipulate attachments using manual and hydraulic controls to separate ferrous and non‑ferrous metals.
• Monitor plant performance, adjusting pressure, speed and flow to optimise processing.
• Maintain strict exclusion zones and coordinate machine movements to ensure worker safety in a high‑traffic environment.
• Perform routine servicing, lubrication, cleaning and minor repairs to minimise downtime.

Required profile

• Strong understanding of workplace health and safety and ability to follow OH&S procedures.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance, attention to detail and a proactive attitude.
• Hold any licences required for operating heavy plant equipment.

Required skills

• Heavy plant operation
• Hydraulic equipment handling
• Metal sorting and segregation

What we offer

• Career development within a global leader in metal recycling.
• Opportunities for progression through a promote‑within culture.
• Safe, zero‑harm workplace environment.