Extrusion Technician

SHARPAK; Aylesham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging manufacturer in Aylesham is seeking an Extrusion Technician to oversee production processes. You will set up and maintain extrusion lines, ensuring products meet quality standards while working closely with team members. The ideal candidate has experience in manufacturing, strong problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. Benefits include life assurance, employee assistance programs, and extra holidays.

Benefits

Life Assurance

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Medical Cash Plan

Extra Holidays

Long Service Awards

Qualifications

• Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment, preferably in the plastics industry.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Set up, run, and monitor extrusion and thermoforming lines.
• Carry out machine adjustments and preventative maintenance.
• Complete quality checks and maintain accurate records.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Independent working

Education

Experience in high-volume manufacturing

Engineering knowledge or experience

Tools

Windows-based systems

Forklift licence

Job description

Overview

Location: Sharpak Aylesham

Contract: Permanent

Shift Pattern: 4 on 4 off, 12-hour shifts (6am-6pm, Days)

We’re looking for an Extrusion Technician to join our Operations team. You’ll play a vital role in setting up, operating, and maintaining extrusion/thermoforming lines to ensure products meet strict quality and safety standards. Working closely with Shift Supervisors and Engineering colleagues, you’ll oversee production from start to finish, minimise scrap, and carry out preventative maintenance. This is a hands-on role in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where attention to detail, quality, and teamwork are key.

Responsibilities

• Set up, run, and monitor extrusion and thermoforming lines to meet production and quality targets.
• Carry out machine adjustments, job changes, and preventative maintenance tasks.
• Complete quality checks and maintain accurate records for material traceability.
• Keep the work area clean, safe, and compliant with company policies.
• Work collaboratively with other departments to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement.

What We’re Looking For (Qualifications)

• Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment (plastics industry preferred).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Engineering knowledge or experience (desirable).
• IT literacy and confidence using Windows-based systems (desirable).
• Current forklift licence (desirable).

About Us

Sharpak Aylesham is a long-established manufacturer of thermoformed plastic packaging, supplying innovative and sustainable solutions to the Fresh Produce and Food Service sectors. With a history dating back to 1968, we’ve grown significantly and continue to lead the way in reliable, efficient, and environmentally conscious packaging.

Why Work With Us?

At Sharpak Aylesham, we think people do their best when they feel valued and supported. That’s why we offer a range of benefits to make work more enjoyable and assist you along the way - and we're always looking for new ways to improve what we offer.

• Life Assurance - from day one, we\'ve got you covered
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - free, confidential support when you need it
• Medical Cash Plan - money back on everyday health costs
• Extra Holidays - 22 days plus bank holidays, and even more the longer you’re with us
• Long Service Awards - we love to celebrate your milestones

Additional Information

Due to the location of our site, being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle may be necessary for some applicants.

To apply for this role, you must be able to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK. If you are interested in this role and meet the role requirements listed above, we would love to hear from you. Please APPLY NOW by submitting your CV and a cover letter.

Please note, successful candidates must provide a suitable reference upon receiving an offer of employment.

Sharpak Aylesham reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received