Are you ready to kickstart a career in operations management with one of the UK’s leading construction materials companies? At Tarmac, we don’t just build roads and infrastructure -we build careers!

Our Higher Apprenticeship in Operations Management is your chance to gain hands-on experience, develop leadership skills, and earn a university-level qualification while helping to keep the UK moving.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Major Projects team, supporting the delivery of two landmark infrastructure projects:

Lower Thames Crossing – A transformative road scheme creating a new link between Kent and Essex through the UK’s longest road tunnel beneath the River Thames. This project will improve capacity, reduce congestion, and boost economic growth across the region.
Find out more here:Lower Thames Crossing – National Highways.[nationalhi...ways.co.uk]
Sizewell C – A major clean energy project on the Suffolk coast, building a new nuclear power station with two EPR reactors. Once complete, Sizewell C will generate 3.2 GW of low-carbon electricity—enough to power around six million homes for at least 60 years. It’s a cornerstone of the UK’s energy security and net-zero strategy, creating thousands of jobs and apprenticeships.
Learn more here:Sizewell C – Official Project Site

What you’ll be doing...

As a Higher Apprentice, you’ll rotate through different areas of our operations, gaining real-world experience and building the skills to become a future leader. Your responsibilities will include:

Supporting Site, Maintenance, and Operations Managers in leading teams and managing day-to-day site functions
Learning how our manufacturing processes work and contributing to improvements in efficiency and performance
Promoting a strong health and safety culture across all site activities
Carrying out site-based duties such as basic maintenance, mobile plant operation, and housekeeping
Collaborating with teams including Health & Safety and Geo-Technical to understandsite geology and sustainability practices
Attending the University of Derby to complete your academic learning as part of the apprenticeship programme

Your Development

Apprenticeships at Tarmac are more than just training - they’re a launchpad for your future.

You’ll gain hands-on experience, build valuable skills, and earn a recognised qualification, all while bringing fresh ideas and energy to your team!

Qualification: Mineral Products Technician Higher Apprenticeship (Level 5) University of Derby

Your learning will be delivered through dedicated block release sessions, with all accommodation and travel expenses covered. You’ll be required to travel to both the site and the college as part of your training.

Link: University of Derby

What we’re looking for...

We welcome people from all backgrounds - no prior experience needed!

Essential

Aged 18 or over by the start date
GCSEs A-C / 9-4 in English and Math's (or equivalent)

Desirable

Hands-on and adaptable — comfortable working both outdoors and in office environments
A strong communicator — able to engage with colleagues, managers, and external stakeholders
Eager to learn — excited to grow through practical experience and formal study
Willing to travel — able to visit multiple sites and attend university sessions
Safety-conscious — committed to working responsibly and looking out for others

Entry Requirements:

Aged 18 or over by the start date
GCSEs A-C / 9-4 in English and Math's (or equivalent)

Ready to Build Your Future? Apply now and start your journey with Tarmac — where operations meet opportunity.

Why Choose Tarmac?

This is where talent meets opportunity- ignite your potential!

At Tarmac, we believe in building more than just roads and infrastructure—we build careers.As the UK’s largest construction materials company, we offer exciting early career opportunities that fit your lifestyle, whether you're on-site, in the office, or a mix of both. Join us to earn, learn, and grow while helping shape a more sustainable future. We’re committed to your development and wellbeing, offering a supportive environment where you can thrive.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Enhanced holiday entitlement
Contributory pension scheme
Exclusive discounts via the Tarmac Reward website
Free and confidential support through our Employee Assistance helpline
Inclusive employee communities, including REACH (Religious, Ethnic and Cultural Heritage), LGBTQ+, Parents & Carers, Ability, Wellbeing, and Female Voice
Training and development tailored to your goals

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome and encouraged to apply.

Don’t Miss Out!

We may close applications early if we receive a high volume of candidates- so if this sounds like your kind of opportunity, get your application in ASAP!

HA - Operations Management JD (2).pdf

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Higher Apprentice - Operations Management