Machine Operative in Rochester)

New Appointments Group; Rochester; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

New Appointments Group is seeking an experienced Machine Operative to join a busy production environment in Rochester. You will set up and operate production machinery, prepare materials and carry out quality and hygiene checks to keep production running safely and efficiently.

The role works 6am–6pm on a 4 on/4 off shift, permanent contract, with a focus on meeting targets, improving OEE and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and paperwork accuracy.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Machine Operative role.
• Experience in a plant/manufacturing environment.
• Basic food hygiene certification advantageous.
• Good health and safety awareness.

Responsibilities

• Carry out pre-production checks and cleaning of the production line.
• Set machinery according to production recipes and requirements.
• Prepare raw materials for production.
• Set up production batches in line with the production plan.
• Replenish packaging, films and trays throughout the shift.
• Stack and handle finished goods safely.
• Maintain high standards of equipment hygiene and cleanliness.
• Complete all required production documentation accurately.
• Record downtime and work with the team to minimise production losses.
• Resolve machine stoppages where possible and elevate issues when required.
• Work towards OEE, quality and waste reduction targets.
• Follow all health & safety policies and procedures.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, safety and waste reduction.
• Support the training of colleagues and identify your own development needs.
• Carry out manual handling duties and other ad-hoc tasks as required.

Skills

Machine operation

Health & safety

IT literacy

Teamwork

Food hygiene

Job description

Machine Operative

Location: Rochester

Salary: £25,780.00pa

Hours: 6am-6pm; 4 on 4off

Contract: Permanent

About the Role

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Machine Operative to join a busy production environment. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with previous experience working within a plant or manufacturing environment who is confident operating machinery and working to production targets.

You will be responsible for setting up and operating production machinery, preparing materials, carrying out quality and hygiene checks, resolving basic machine stoppages and ensuring production runs efficiently and safely.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out pre-production checks and cleaning of the production line.


• Set machinery according to production recipes and requirements.


• Prepare raw materials for production.


• Set up production batches in line with the production plan.


• Replenish packaging, films and trays throughout the shift.


• Stack and handle finished goods safely.


• Maintain high standards of equipment hygiene and cleanliness.


• Complete all required production documentation accurately.


• Record downtime and work with the team to minimise production losses.


• Resolve machine stoppages where possible and elevate issues when required.


• Work towards OEE, quality and waste reduction targets.


• Follow all health & safety policies and procedures.


• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, safety and waste reduction.


• Support the training of colleagues and identify your own development needs.


• Carry out manual handling duties and other ad-hoc tasks as required.

About You

• Previous experience in a Machine Operative or similar role within a plant/manufacturing environment.


• Experience with manual handling and production line operations.


• Basic food hygiene certification would be advantageous.


• Good awareness of health and safety requirements.


• The ability to follow instructions while also using your own initiative.


• Good communication and teamwork skills.


• Basic IT literacy and the ability to complete production documentation.


• The ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight production deadlines.


• A flexible approach to working hours and production requirements.


• A positive attitude and willingness to learn and support others.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is reliable, hands‑on and safety‑conscious, with a strong work ethic and a genuine team‑player attitude. You should be comfortable working in a fast‑paced production environment and motivated to help maintain high standards of quality, efficiency and hygiene.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in line with the Equality Act 2010. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.