Quarry Operative (Excavator)
Application Deadline: 26 June 2026
Department: Operations and Maintenance
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Bonnington Quarry, Edinburgh
Description
About Breedon Group: Breedon Group plc is a leading vertically integrated construction materials group in Great Britain, Ireland, and the USA. We're dedicated to providing high-quality materials and services for the construction industry, with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Joining Breedon means becoming part of a team that values excellence and is committed to making a positive impact.
Position Overview: We are looking for a reliable and hardworking Quarry Operative / Excavator Operator to join our quarrying team. In this hands‑on role, you’ll be responsible for operating excavators and other heavy plant machinery to support the safe extraction, processing, and handling of aggregates and materials in line with production targets. You’ll carry out daily machine checks, basic maintenance, and ensure all work is completed safely and efficiently while following strict health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys practical outdoor work, operating heavy machinery, and working as part of a busy quarry team. Previous excavator operating experience within a quarry, construction, or similar environment is preferred, along with a strong awareness of site safety and teamwork.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate excavators safely and efficiently on quarry working faces and throughout the site
- Carry out remedial quarry development works including benching, grading, drainage, and material movement
- Support extraction, stockpiling, and loading operations in line with production targets
- Feed crushers, screeners, and hoppers with raw materials using the excavator
- Undertake earthworks and site preparation works as directed by quarry management
- Perform routine pre‑start inspections, cleaning, and basic maintenance on excavators and associated plant
- Follow site plans, daily schedules, and operational instructions from supervisors
- Conduct regular safety checks and report hazards, defects, or incidents immediately
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times
- Maintain safe and tidy working areas around machinery, haul roads, and operational zones
- Assist with general quarry operations and work flexibly to support site requirements and production demands.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential
- Experience operating 50T excavators in quarrying, construction, or heavy industry
- Good understanding of quarry safety and working practices
- Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to carry out routine machine checks
- Reliable, safety‑conscious, and able to work as part of a team
- Flexible approach and willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Desirable
- Experience working on quarry faces and remedial quarry development works
- Geotechnical experience advantageous, although training will be provided
- CPCS, MPQC, or other relevant plant operator certification
- Quarrying or extractives experience preferred.
Benefits
- A tailored, competitive salary
- Company Pension Scheme
- 33 days annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays
- Share Saver Scheme participation
- Company Life Assurance Scheme
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing support
- Discounts on a wide range of products through our employee benefits platform
- Broad learning opportunities and career progression pathways.
Diversity Statement
At Breedon Group, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued. We believe in equality of opportunity for all and encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates.
Join Us
If you're looking for a role that challenges you, offers progression, and contributes to building better futures, we'd love to hear from you. This position is an opportunity to grow your career within a supportive and dynamic environment at Breedon Group.
