Chemical Process Operator

Reed Specialist Recruitment; Wakefield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Overtime opportunities

Annual leave 25 days + bank holidays

Enhanced pension contributions

Death in Service benefit

Group Income Protection

Job summary

Reed Specialist Recruitment is seeking a Process Operator for a leading manufacturing site in Wakefield. You will operate, monitor and control chemical processing equipment and related plant systems, following SOPs and production schedules to ensure safe, consistent manufacture.

You will monitor process variables, report deviations, take samples and maintain accurate records while complying with health, safety and environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in operating chemical processing equipment and monitoring process parameters.
• Ability to follow SOPs, instructions and production schedules.
• Maintain accurate production records and safety documentation.
• Knowledge of COSHH and permit-to-work systems.
• Experience in regulated environments (COMAH, ISO, GMP, ATEX).

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor and control chemical processing equipment and plant systems.
• Follow SOPs and batch instructions to manufacture products safely.
• Monitor temperature, pressure and flow; adjust where authorised.
• Handle materials, weigh, mix and charge according to site procedures.
• Take routine samples and complete production, quality and safety documentation.
• Carry out quality checks and escalate deviations.

Skills

Health & safety awareness

Attention to detail

Process monitoring

Record keeping

Shift work flexibility

COSHH knowledge

Forklift licence

Education

Apprenticeship, NVQ, BTEC or equivalent in Process Operations

Science or Engineering related qualification

Tools

DCS (Distributed Control System)

Forklift Truck Licence

Job description

A great opportunity has arisen for a Process Operator to join a leading manufacturing company

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor and control chemical processing equipment, including vessels, pumps, valves, mixers, filling lines and associated plant systems.
• Follow standard operating procedures, batch instructions and production schedules to manufacture products safely and consistently.
• Monitor process variables including temperature, pressure, flow rates, levels and reaction times, making adjustments where authorised.
• Handle, transfer, weigh, mix and charge raw materials, intermediates and finished products in line with site procedures.
• Support plant start-ups, shutdowns, changeovers and routine operating activities.
• Take routine samples and accurately complete production, quality and safety documentation.
• Carry out quality checks and escalation any non-conforming products or process deviations.
• Maintain accurate operational records and electronic data systems.
• Ensure work is carried out in accordance with site procedures and regulatory standards.
• Comply with all health, safety and environmental requirements.
• Adhere to PPE, COSHH, permit-to-work and risk assessment procedures.
• Identify and report hazards, unsafe conditions and near misses.
• Support the site's commitment to maintaining a safe and environmentally responsible workplace.
• Carry out first-line operational checks and inspections.
• Report plant defects, leaks, faults and abnormal operating conditions.
• Support maintenance teams by preparing equipment for maintenance activities.
• Assist with routine cleaning, housekeeping and line-clearance activities.
• Contribute ideas to improve safety, productivity and process efficiency.

Beneficial Skills / Qualifications

• Strong understanding of health, safety and environmental requirements within manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Ability to follow operating procedures, work instructions and safety standards with a high level of accuracy.
• Good attention to detail when monitoring plant performance and completing operational records.
• Basic IT skills for data entry, production reporting and electronic records.
• Flexible approach to shift working and overtime requirements.
• Apprenticeship, NVQ, BTEC or equivalent vocational qualification in Process Operations, Manufacturing, Engineering or a Scientific discipline.
• Previous experience within chemical manufacturing, process operations, production or a similar industrial environment.
• Familiarity with DCS (Distributed Control System) operations.
• Experience working within COMAH, ISO, GMP, ATEX or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Forklift Truck Licence.
• Knowledge of chemical handling procedures, COSHH and permit-to-work systems.

Additional Details

• Permanent position
• 4 On / 4 Off rotating shift pattern
• Average 34.3 hours per week
• Bonus
• Overtime opportunities available (not guaranteed)
• Monday to Friday: 1.5x rate
• Weekends and Bank Holidays: 2x rate
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Additional long-service holiday entitlement awarded every 5 years (up to 5 extra days)
• Enhanced pension contribution scheme with employer contributions of up to 10%
• Death in Service benefit (3x salary including shift allowance)
• Group Income Protection scheme