Machine Operators

Join the Forum Team!

Due to continued growth, Forum Packaging Ltd has exciting opportunities for mechanically minded individuals to join our busy Conversion Department, with the opportunity to develop into fully skilled Conversion Operators of our mainline paper sack manufacturing machinery.

About Us

Forum Packaging is a well-established and respected UK manufacturer of paper sacks, supplying a wide range of products to customers across various market sectors.

The Role

We are looking for individuals with strong mechanical and technical abilities who are confident working with large industrial production machinery and have the potential to progress quickly to operator level.

The ideal candidate will have experience of setting, operating, adjusting and fault-finding on production machinery, together with the ability to understand manufacturing processes from start to finish.

Our Conversion machinery involves several stages of production, and operators must be able to recognise issues as they arise, understand how adjustments at different stages affect the finished product, and take appropriate corrective action to maintain production efficiency and quality standards.

Successful candidates will receive structured training through Forum's internal training programme, with the opportunity to progress to fully competent operator level.

We are particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate the technical understanding, mechanical aptitude and ability to learn quickly, with an initial focus on assessing progress and developing operational competence during the first three months.

Skills and Personal Qualities

• Strong mechanical aptitude and a practical, technical mindset.
• Ability to understand the different stages of production and how machinery operates.
• Confident identifying mechanical and production issues and making adjustments.
• Quick learner with the ability to understand, retain and apply technical information.
• Good problem-solving skills and the ability to use initiative.
• Quality conscious, with excellent attention to detail.
• Punctual, reliable, self-motivated and able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Positive and flexible approach to work and training.
• Good understanding of health, safety, hygiene and quality standards.

Experience and Qualifications

Previous experience in paper sack manufacturing is not essential, as full training will be provided. However, the following proven experience is essential:

• Previous hands-on experience working with industrial production machinery in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven mechanical and technical ability, including machine setting, adjustments or fault-finding.
• Good standard of Maths and English, with the ability to understand technical instructions, carry out basic calculations and complete production documentation accurately.
• Willingness to undertake training and develop the skills required to operate complex conversion machinery.
• Willingness to work a rotating shift pattern.
• Basic computer literacy and experience completing production records.

Working Hours and Shift Patterns

Working hours and shift patterns will depend on the machine and production area allocated.

These may include two-shift or three-shift rotations, or permanent night shifts. Normal working hours are Monday to Friday, with some weekend overtime opportunities available at the applicable overtime rates.

Contracted hours will be either 35 or 37.5 hours per week, depending on the production area and shift pattern.

Pay rates will vary depending on experience, skills and shift allocation.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay, dependent on experience and skills.
• Structured training and opportunities to progress to fully skilled operator level.
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• Death in Service benefit (after qualifying period).
• Company sick pay (after qualifying period).
• Free on-site parking.
• A friendly and established manufacturing environment.

Equality and Diversity

Forum Packaging Ltd is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and industries and are committed to providing an inclusive working environment.

How to Apply

If you have a strong mechanical background, enjoy working with production machinery and are looking for an opportunity to develop your technical skills and progress your career, we would like to hear from you.

Please email your CV to the HR Manager at Forum Packaging Ltd, including your email address and contact telephone number.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by email or text message regarding the next stage of the recruitment process.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From £13.14 per hour

Benefits:

• Bereavement leave
• Company pension
• Free parking
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Education:

• GCSE or equivalent (preferred)

Experience:

• Manufacturing: 2 years (required)

Work Location: In person