DSE (Downstream Equipment) Operator

Danone; Kettering; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Private healthcare

Life assurance

Health and wellbeing support

Job summary

Danone’s Alpro unit in Kettering is seeking a DSE (Downstream Equipment) Operator to safely run downstream packaging lines and palletiser robots. You’ll ensure products meet quality standards, record performance data, and support troubleshooting in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

The role requires attention to detail, basic IT skills, and experience in food production. Training is provided, with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent)
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Previous experience within a food manufacturing environment
• Understanding of food allergen controls and basic food hygiene
• Good attention to detail and record-keeping skills
• Basic IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to solve technical and operational issues

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and monitor downstream packaging equipment and palletiser robots to maintain efficient production and achieve production targets.
• Ensure products are packed to specification and meet quality and food safety standards at all times.
• Monitor packing line performance and identify any issues or deviations.
• Carry out routine equipment checks and support troubleshooting activities where required.
• Complete production records, performance checks and other operational documentation accurately.
• Record and communicate production performance data effectively.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping, food safety and hygiene.
• Work collaboratively with production teams to ensure efficient day-to-day operations.

Skills

Communication skills

Food manufacturing experience

Food hygiene awareness

Attention to detail

Record-keeping

MS Office

Problem solving

Education

GCSEs (or equivalent)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About The Job

DSE (Downstream Equipment) Operator

Location: Alpro - Kettering, Northamptonshire

Salary: £35443.36, rising to £36539.54 once fully trained, plus shift allowance and an excellent range of benefits including pension, private healthcare, income protection and employee discounts.
Working Pattern: Full-time rotating shifts, including days, nights and weekends.

Join Alpro, Part of Danone

At Alpro, we're passionate about creating plant-based products that millions of people enjoy every day. As part of Danone, we're a global business with a local feel, offering excellent career development opportunities in a fast-paced and innovative manufacturing environment.

We're currently looking for a DSE (Downstream Equipment) Operator to join our Kettering manufacturing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate and monitor downstream packaging equipment and palletiser robots to maintain efficient production and achieve production targets.
• Ensure products are packed to specification and meet quality and food safety standards at all times.
• Monitor packing line performance and identify any issues or deviations.
• Carry out routine equipment checks and support troubleshooting activities where required.
• Complete production records, performance checks and other operational documentation accurately.
• Record and communicate production performance data effectively.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping, food safety and hygiene.
• Work collaboratively with production teams to ensure efficient day-to-day operations.

About You

We're looking for someone who is safety-focused, proactive and enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

• GCSEs (or equivalent)
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Previous experience within a food manufacturing environment
• Understanding of food allergen controls and basic food hygiene
• Good attention to detail and record-keeping skills
• Basic IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to solve technical and operational issues

Desirable

• FLT Licence
• HACCP Training
• COSHH Training
• Knowledge of CIP (Clean In Place) processes

About Us

What We Offer

At Alpro, we know our people are our greatest asset. In return for your hard work and commitment, we offer:

• Competitive salary and shift allowance
• Excellent benefits package including pension, private healthcare and life assurance
• Health and wellbeing support
• Training and development opportunities
• Career progression within Alpro and Danone
• An inclusive, supportive and high-performing team environment

About Alpro & Danone

Alpro is one of Europe's leading plant-based food and drink brands and is proudly part of Danone, a global company with a mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible.

Our Alpro Kettering site plays a vital role in producing products enjoyed by consumers across the UK and beyond. We're proud of our culture, our commitment to safety and quality, and the opportunities we provide for our people to learn, develop and grow their careers.

At Danone, we believe that different perspectives make us stronger. Creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive is a core part of who we are.

What's Next?

If you're looking for your next challenge within Alpro's dynamic manufacturing environment and want to be part of a team making products enjoyed by millions, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing Date:

20th November 2026