Production Operative

Absolute Taste - Production; Cherwell District; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A food production company in the United Kingdom, located in Cherwell District, seeks candidates to ensure that all food products meet quality and client specifications. The ideal applicant will support daily operations, drive efficiencies, and maintain high health and safety standards. Key tasks include achieving production targets, adhering to food safety regulations, and effective teamwork. Flexibility in work hours and strong attention to hygiene are essential. Candidates must have good communication skills and a reliable work ethic.

Qualifications

• Highly numerate and able to follow production recipes and procedures.
• Experience with food production and compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Flexibility to work in both hot and cold environments.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with food safety and legal standards.
• Achieve daily and weekly production plans within timeframes.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards during production.

Skills

Attention to detail

Good spoken and written English skills

Positive attitude

Job description

Overview

The primary objective of this role is to ensure that all food products are produced to the agreed quality, specification, and customer requirements. You will support the senior management team in the smooth day-to-day running of production operations, helping to drive efficiencies while maintaining food safety, product quality, legality, and high Health & Safety standards at all times.

Key Activities & Responsibilities

Production & Quality

• Achieve the daily and weekly production plan fully and within required timeframes.

• Follow all production recipes, systems, and procedures to ensure consistent product quality, food safety, and legal compliance.

• Cook and mix both large and small batches, including manual stirring, mixing, and monitoring.

• Ensure all products are correctly labelled and rotated following FIFO (First In, First Out) principles.

• Complete all production and technical paperwork accurately and on time.

Equipment, Hygiene & Safety

• Complete all equipment checks and ensure machinery is cleaned during and after use.

• Use all company equipment safely and correctly at all times.

• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards at all times, following the “clean as you go” policy.

• Understand and adhere to Health & Safety requirements.

• Work safely in both hot and cold production areas and wear full PPE as required.

Stock & Compliance

• Carry out daily, weekly, and monthly stock takes.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and standards, including H&S, Food Hygiene Regulations, BRC, and SALSA.

• Report any violations or concerns to management immediately.

• Maintain a working knowledge of all policies, procedures, and regulations.

Teamwork & Communication

• Work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

• Maintain strong concentration and attention to detail, even during repetitive tasks.

• Keep line managers informed of any potential opportunities or risks to the business.

• Provide useful data, insights, and observations to support informed decision-making.

• Undertake any additional tasks or projects as directed by your line manager.

Working Conditions

• Role involves physical activity including lifting, bending, stretching, and standing for long periods.

• Regular contact with allergens, and both raw and cooked foods.

• Must be flexible and able to work shift patterns as required.

Key Attributes

• Flexible, positive, “can-do” attitude.

• Highly numerate with good spoken and written English skills.

• Honest, open, punctual, and reliable.

• Strong attention to detail, especially regarding food safety and hygiene.

• Takes pride in work, appearance, and maintaining high standards.

• Able to work independently and collaboratively.