Assistant Plant Superintendent

Permanent | Plymouth | £55,000-£65,000

Sphere Solutions are partnering with their client to recruit several Assistant Plant Superintendents (APS). As an APS, you will be a shift leader and hands-on manager in a mineral processing plant. You’ll run the plant safely and efficiently, train your team, troubleshoot problems, and help set up the way the plant is run. This role is a mix of leadership, technical know-how, and practical problem-solving, with shift work becoming a core part of the role later in the year.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead your shift operations team by setting a strong example and sharing your experience.
• Meet the plant’s production, safety, quality, performance, and cost objectives.
• Uphold the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental compliance.
• Operate your shift efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively while maintaining excellent housekeeping standards.
• Develop your shift team through training and mentoring, ensuring a solid understanding of mineral processing principles and equipment.
• Take a practical, hands-on approach to tasks and effectively manage site activities.
• Ensure control and instrumentation systems are well-maintained and fully operational.

Candidate Requirements

• At least 5 years’ hands-on experience operating mineral processing plants or other large, continuous production facilities.
• Experience leading a team in a complex shift-based operation.
• Practical knowledge of SCADA or other plant control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and fix process issues.
• Clear communication skills, able to work effectively with people at all levels.
• Flexible and able to work a 24/7 shift pattern, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Basic understanding of UK environmental, health & safety, and employment regulations.

Other Information

• Relocation package available for the right candidates.
• 40-hour working week, with the shift pattern to be determined later in the year (a shift premium will be paid).
• All employees must undertake a drugs and alcohol test.
• Candidates must be able to meet the physical requirements of the role, including working at heights, climbing stairs and ladders, and accessing plant areas (reasonable adjustments considered under the Equality Act 2010).

To apply, please follow the instructions below, or call Cat or Jo on 01752 421888 for an informal, confidential discussion.

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As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities.

If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplaces, regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or background.