Kiln Process Operator
| Posting date: | 23 December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £32,304 to £34,996 per year |
| Additional salary information: | Overtime, 10% Annual Bonus, Pension |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 22 January 2026 |
| Location: | Swansea, Swansea, sa65qr |
| Company: | Acorn Recruitment |
| Job type: | Contract |
| Job reference: | BBBH24771_1766490651 |
Summary
Kiln Process Operator - Clydach, Swansea
Clydach, Swansea | £32,304 - £34,996.46 per annum + overtime paid at 1.75 premium + 10% annual bonus | Full time | 4 On 6 Off Shift Pattern | Ongoing contract
Introduction
Acorn by Synergie is recruiting a Kiln Process Operator on behalf of our prestigious client, Vale Europe, for ongoing positions at their world-renowned Mond Nickel Refinery in Clydach, Swansea.
Celebrating over 120 years of operation, the Mond Nickel Refinery is one of the world's leading nickel refineries. Owned and operated by Vale Europe, part of one of the largest global mining companies, this is a fantastic opportunity to work in a stable, safety-driven, and world-class engineering environment.
The Role
We are currently looking to recruit one Operator within the Kiln Plant. The ideal candidates will have gained previous experience having worked in a manufacturing environment. The ability to work safely, have a flexible approach towards work along with a strong work ethic will be the skills and attributes required for this role. The ideal candidate will also have the ability to work individually and as part of the wider team within the area. Additionally, the candidate will be required to work overtime when asked to do so. Experience of Process Plant Operations and an Engineering background will be desirable for this role.
A good working knowledge of Safe Systems of Work along with the ability to champion safety in the workplace is a key requirement for this role.
Continuous Improvement is an important factor within the Kiln Plant to continue to be successful and deliver quality products to its customers, therefore the successful candidate will be able to demonstrate their commitment to CI.
Ideal candidates will have completed a Craft or Process Apprenticeship and have a minimum qualification of a BTEC National Certificate in Engineering or Process Operations or equivalent.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate and control the Feeds, Hydrogen and Volat circuit processes
- Uphold high standards of safety and housekeeping, following all company procedures and PPE requirements.
- Participate in safety activities, incident reporting, and process improvements.
- Collaborate with colleagues and maintenance teams to achieve production goals and maintain equipment.
- Support training of new team members and participate in ongoing skills development.
- Carry out basic maintenance and equipment checks, reporting any defects.
Requirements
- 6-18 months' experience in an operational or process environment
- GCSEs or equivalent
- Willingness to work shifts and overtime as required
- Previous experience in manufacturing environment
The Ideal Candidate
- Holds a Craft or Process Apprenticeship, or BTEC National Certificate in Engineering/Process Operations (or equivalent)
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and quality
- Possesses excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Shows attention to detail, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Has basic IT and analytical skills
- Experience in operational or maintenance disciplines is an advantage
- Able to demonstrate their commitment to 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.
Sustainability
Vale is reinforcing its pact with society as it strives to meet all current demands of our planet. To align with world-class sustainability best practices, Vale will invest at least US$ 2 billion in initiatives to reduce the company's carbon emissions by 33% by 2030. This investment is the largest sum ever allocated by the mining industry in the fight against climate change and is part of Vale's commitment to have a zero net carbon footprint in its operations by 2050.
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