Job Description

Machine Operative/Trainee

Job Title: Machine Operative

Department: Production / Manufacturing

Location: Watford 8am - 5pm Monday - Friday

Reporting to: Production Manager / Factory Manager

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, with shift work and overtime as required

Job Overview

We are seeking a reliable, enthusiastic and hands-on Machine Operative to join our production team. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting up and operating machinery, ensuring products are manufactured to the required quality standards and customer specifications.

This role would suit a practical individual with good attention to detail, a strong work ethic and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Previous machine operating or manufacturing experience would be advantageous, although training can be provided for the right candidate.

The successful applicant will be expected to work safely, maintain high standards of quality and housekeeping, and contribute to the efficient running of the production department.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor production machinery in accordance with work instructions and production schedules.
• Load and unload materials and finished products safely and efficiently.
• Adjust machine settings and tooling as required to ensure accurate and consistent production.
• Carry out regular quality inspections throughout the production process and report any defects or inconsistencies.
• Identify and report machine faults, production issues or equipment breakdowns to the relevant supervisor.
• Ensure all products meet the required specifications and quality standards before being passed to the next stage of production.
• Complete production paperwork, job sheets and computerised records accurately.
• Ensure materials and finished goods are correctly identified, labelled and handled.
• Carry out routine cleaning and basic maintenance of machinery in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
• Follow all company health and safety policies, operating procedures and safe manual handling practices.
• Work closely with colleagues and supervisors to achieve daily production targets and deadlines.
• Assist with stock control, material movements and general production duties when required.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as requested by the Production Manager or Factory Manager.

Requirements

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Attributes

• A positive attitude and a strong work ethic.
• Reliable, punctual and committed to maintaining high standards.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• A practical, hands-on approach to work, with an interest in machinery and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills and a willingness to learn.
• Ability to work in a busy production environment and meet deadlines.
• A commitment to health and safety, quality and good housekeeping.
• Willingness to undertake training and develop new skills.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Experience setting up machinery, changing tooling or making basic machine adjustments.
• Knowledge of quality control procedures and production documentation.
• Experience using lifting equipment or forklift trucks, with relevant training or certification where required.
• Basic computer skills for completing production records and job confirmations.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

The Machine Operative must follow all company health and safety procedures, use equipment only when appropriately trained and authorised, wear the required personal protective equipment and report hazards, accidents and near misses promptly.

All machinery must be operated in accordance with approved procedures. Safety guards and protective devices must never be bypassed or removed without proper authorisation.

Performance Expectations

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Meet agreed production targets and deadlines.
• Produce work consistently to the required quality standards.
• Minimise waste, errors and unnecessary downtime.
• Maintain accurate production records.
• Demonstrate safe working practices and good housekeeping.
• Contribute positively to teamwork and continuous improvemen

Benefits

What We Offer

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
• Full training and ongoing development.
• Opportunities for long-term career progression.
• Company pension scheme.
• Holiday entitlement in accordance with company policy.
• Overtime opportunities, subject to business requirements.
• A supportive and team-focused working environment.

Application

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, is keen to learn and can make a positive contribution to our production team. If you are practical, dependable and motivated to deliver high-quality work, we would welcome your application.

Salary up to £28000 please email laura.keating@newstaffemployment.co.uk or call the Luton branch on 01582877002