Process Operator

Advert Details:
Process Operator
Location: Knockharley, Navan, Meath

About the Role
We are looking for a Process Operator to support the safe and efficient operation of our processing plant.
The Process Operator will operate and inspect plant equipment, monitor performance and respond appropriately to equipment faults or unusual operating conditions. You will also support routine maintenance, cleaning and housekeeping activities to help keep the site safe, compliant and operational.
This is a hands-on role suited to someone who is safety-conscious, mechanically minded and comfortable working in a busy industrial environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Process Operator, you will:
Operate plant and processing equipment safely and efficiently
Complete routine equipment inspections and record operating information
Report accidents, equipment damage, faults and performance concerns
Take appropriate action when abnormal or emergency operating conditions arise
Complete planned preventative maintenance tasks
Assist the maintenance team with equipment repairs where required
Support other operational and maintenance teams across the site
Carry out cleaning, painting and general site housekeeping duties
Follow all company procedures, operating instructions and safety policies
Work additional hours or overtime during breakdowns, major maintenance or unusual operating conditions
Complete other reasonable duties as directed by site managementWhat We’re Looking For
The successful Process Operator will ideally have:
A Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualification
Good mechanical awareness and confidence using basic hand tools
Previous experience in a plant, manufacturing, recycling, engineering or industrial environment
Technical, mechanical or apprenticeship training would be advantageous
The ability to read and follow operating procedures, safety instructions and maintenance documents
Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with supervisors and colleagues
Basic numeracy skills and the ability to accurately complete operating records
A practical and responsible approach to problem-solving
The confidence to take immediate safe action to protect people and equipment during unusual or emergency situations
Relevant CSCS plant tickets for equipment such as loaders, forklifts or MEWPs would be advantageousWorking Environment
The Process Operator role involves working around moving machinery and industrial equipment, both indoors and outdoors. The position may include working at height and occasional exposure to confined spaces, dust, fumes, chemicals, heat, vibration and varying noise levels.
All required personal protective equipment, training and safe working procedures must be used and followed at all times.

About The Company
We are Panda. We value waste.
We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.
At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.
We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.
We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.
And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.
Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact.
Take the first step and join us on the journey.
 
Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
(DE&I Policy Statement)