The Role

We are looking to recruit a Production Operator to support safe and efficient operations within the Refinery. The ideal candidate will have experience working within a manufacturing or process environment, with a flexible approach and strong work ethic. You will be expected to work both independently and as part of a wider operational team, supporting daily production activities while upholding high safety standards. A solid understanding of safe systems of work and the ability to champion safety on site are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor core plant systems, ensuring safe, efficient production of nickel powder and pellets.
• Support Process Technicians by maintaining accurate process readings, completing SAP work orders, and preparing equipment for maintenance.
• Uphold high standards of safety and housekeeping, following all company safety procedures including LOTO and DPL.
• Safely discharge, transport, pack, and quality‑check nickel products in line with operational requirements.
• Participate in safety activities, incident reporting, emergency response tasks, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and repair operational issues, resolving where possible and supporting energy‑saving and process‑improvement opportunities.

Requirements

• Proven Experience in a manufacturing, process or heavy industry
• Secondary School education (GCSEs or equivalent).
• Ability to work safely within strict procedures, including familiarity with safe systems of work, permit systems, and hazard awareness.
• Confident working with industrial equipment, performing routine checks, and following technical procedures accurately and consistently.

The Ideal Candidate

• Holds a Craft or Process Apprenticeship or a BTEC National Certificate in Engineering/Process Operations (or equivalent).
• Shows excellent teamwork, communication skills, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Displays good attention to detail, basic IT/record‑keeping ability, and a willingness to support continuous improvement.

Inclusive Environment

Vale is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £33,435.00-£36,221.00 per year

Benefits:

• Bereavement leave
• Company events
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free flu jabs
• Free parking
• Gym membership
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Life insurance
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Paid volunteer time
• Private medical insurance
• Sick pay

Education:

• Certificate of Higher Education (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Craft or Process Apprenticeship (required)

Work Location: In person