Machine Operator - FMCG

Hewett Recruitment; Ledbury; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the fresh produce industry is seeking an experienced Machinery Operator for their Packhouse operation in Ledbury. This full-time permanent role focuses on machine operation and maintenance within a fast-paced environment, emphasizing safety and hygiene. Ideal candidates will thrive in team settings and possess strong attention to detail, ensuring quality packaging and compliance with operational protocols.

Qualifications

• Experience in food production/packing.
• Ability to train others in safe machine handling.
• Comfortable in a chilled, fast-paced production area.

Responsibilities

• Operate and adjust packing machinery.
• Ensure hygiene standards are met.
• Report machinery issues and communicate with teams.

Skills

Machine operation experience

Trained in food hygiene

Knowledge of label accuracy

Mechanical issue resolution

Education

Level 2 Food Safety

Job description

Machinery Operator

£32,000 - £33,500
Ledbury
Full-Time - Permanent
Working Hours: 48 hours - 6-day week

Role Summary

Are you an experienced Machine Operator with a background in food production?
We're working with well-respected business within the fresh produce industry, to recruit a hands-on, safety-conscious Machinery Operator for their Packhouse operation in Ledbury.

This role is vital to the day-to-day running of the packing lines - ideal for someone who takes pride in precision, quality, and working as part of a fast-moving team. If you're confident with food packing machinery, know your way around safety and hygiene protocols, and want to work for a business that values quality and people, we'd love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Operate and adjust label applicators, film wrappers, sealing equipment, and other packing machinery.
• Ensure all packaging (including pre-printed film and labels) is accurate and legible.
• Train other operatives in safe machine handling and operating procedures.

• Maintain clean machines and workspaces to meet hygiene standards.
• Conduct end-of-shift cleaning and report any hygiene issues.
• Dispose of unused labels and packaging materials correctly to maintain traceability.
• Follow allergen, segregation, and traceability procedures.
• Complete label checks and ensure traceability systems are followed.

• Follow all site safety protocols including machine guarding, lock-out procedures, and manual handling practices.
• Operate metal detectors and other food safety equipment correctly.
• Report machinery issues, breakdowns, or unsafe conditions immediately.

• Communicate clearly with the QA team and Dispatch regarding delays, defects, or product holds.
• Attend daily team briefings and respond to production needs as they arise.

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience operating machinery in a food production or packing environment.
• Trained in food hygiene and metal detector use (Level 2 Food Safety preferred).
• Knowledge of label accuracy, traceability, and customer specifications.
• Ability to spot and resolve mechanical issues quickly and safely.
• Capable of training others and working well as part of a team.
• Comfortable working in a chilled, fast-paced production area.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, proactive, and focused on detail.
• Calm under pressure and able to adapt quickly to changes.
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and improve.
• Safety- and hygiene-conscious at all times.
• Respectful and supportive in a multicultural team environment.