Production Machine Operator

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, supervising and monitoring production machinery on cutting, packaging or labelling lines. The role ensures safe, efficient and continuous production output that meets quality, hygiene and safety standards. The operator performs routine adjustments, basic maintenance and cleaning tasks, and escalates technical issues to Technical Service or the Shift Leader.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and monitor production machines on cutting, packaging or labelling lines to achieve output and quality targets.

• Set up machines, perform routine adjustments and execute changeovers according to procedures.

• Carry out basic preventative maintenance and cleaning tasks; assist maintenance team with minor repairs.

• Monitor product quality and packaging/label accuracy; remove or report non-conforming product.

• Record production data, downtime and incidents; report faults and resource needs to TD/Shift Leader.

• Follow all food-safety, hygiene and quality procedures (HACCP, cleaning regimes, traceability).

• Adhere to health & safety and machine-safety procedures; use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Assist and supervise line staff as required during operations, training or short staffing.

• Support continuous improvement activities by reporting improvement ideas and participating in team initiatives.

Qualifications and skills

• Previous experience operating production machinery in food processing, poultry or similar manufacturing environment preferred.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with changeovers, settings and simple troubleshooting.

• Understanding of quality control, hygiene and safety requirements in food production.

• Ability to work in a cold production environment and comply with PPE requirements.

• Attention to detail, reliability and ability to follow standard operating procedures.

• Good communication and teamwork skills; willingness to assist and supervise colleagues when needed.

• Flexibility to work shift patterns, including early starts, evenings and weekends as required.

• Formal mechanical qualification, machine-safety training or HACCP/food-safety certification is a plus.

Physical and working conditions

• Work in refrigerated areas (approx. 8–10 °C).

• Exposure to machine noise and moving equipment; PPE (ear protection, gloves, safety boots, etc.) required.

• Periodic manual exertion and strenuous postures during maintenance or cleaning tasks.

• Risk of injury from crushing/impact or ejected tools — strict adherence to lockout/tagout and safety procedures required.

• Standing and walking for extended periods; some repetitive movements.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and shift allowances.

• Training and certification opportunities (HACCP, machine safety, etc.).

• Supportive team environment and internal development opportunities.

• Employee benefits as per company policy.

Pay: From £31,200.00 per year

Application question(s):

• Did you have experience with Food production?
• What is your Notice period?
• What are your salary expectations?

Experience:

• Machine operation: 3 years (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person