The Company
Imerys is the world’s leading supplier of mineral-based specialty solutions for the industry with €3.4 billion in revenue and 12,300 employees in 40 countries in 2025. The Group offers high value-added and functional solutions to a wide range of industries and fast-growing markets such as solutions for the energy transition and sustainable construction, as well as natural solutions for consumer goods. Imerys draws on its understanding of applications, technological knowledge, and expertise in material science to deliver solutions which contribute essential properties to customers’ products and their performance. As part of its commitment to responsible development, Imerys promotes environmentally friendly products and processes in addition to supporting its customers in their decarbonization efforts.
Imerys is listed on Euronext Paris (France) with the ticker symbol NK.PA.
The Position
Operative
Job Summary
Operative - Refining
Location: Trebal Refinery, Trethurgy, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 8YQ
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 38.5 hours per week (74 shift pattern, 12-hour days and nights)
Salary: £25,445.42 per annum plus £6,461.65 shift allowance
Join Our Trebal Refinery Team
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Operative to join our team at Trebal Refinery.
As part of a small team responsible for running the china clay refining process, you will play a key role in producing high-quality products for our customers. This varied role combines both computer-based process control and practical operational activities, providing an excellent opportunity to develop technical skills and build a long-term career within Imerys.
Working in a 24/7 operation, you will monitor and control refining processes using our SCADA system, operate site equipment, support basic maintenance tasks, and contribute to the safe and efficient running of the refinery. You will work closely with engineers, Day Captains, and the wider management team to ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining the highest safety standards.
What You'll Be Doing
Monitoring and controlling refining processes using SCADA process control systems.
Operating plant and equipment across the refinery site.
Ensuring production runs safely, efficiently, and in line with quality standards.
Carrying out routine plant inspections and process checks.
Supporting basic maintenance activities and equipment upkeep.
Maintaining excellent housekeeping standards across the site.
Working closely with engineers and operational managers to resolve issues and improve performance.
Reporting hazards, incidents, near misses, and process deviations.
Following all Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) policies, procedures, and management instructions.
Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the refinery.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for individuals who are:
Reliable and safety-focused.
Comfortable working in both practical and computer-based environments.
Strong communicators who enjoy working as part of a team.
Organised and methodical with good attention to detail.
Physically fit and comfortable working in an industrial setting.
Keen to learn new skills and develop within a manufacturing environment.
Confident using technology and willing to learn process control systems.
Desirable experience includes:
Experience in manufacturing, production, quarrying, processing, engineering, or other industrial environments.
Previous experience operating machinery or process equipment.
Experience working safely within industrial or production settings.
Valid licence to drive in the UK.
Training and Development
No previous refining experience is required. Full training will be provided, including:
Refining process operations
SCADA process control systems
Fixed plant operations
Mobile plant operations
Basic maintenance activities
Health, Safety and Environmental procedures
Site equipment and operational processes
This role offers an excellent…