Production Operative

We Are Zenith; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

We Are Zenith is seeking a hands-on Production Operative to join our metals manufacturing team in Gateshead. You will help run day-to-day plant operations, operate machinery, and ensure quality and safety standards are met in a fast-paced environment.

You will gain full training, become multi-skilled, support continuous improvement initiatives like Kaizen, and work shifts including overtime. A positive team attitude and good communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment preferred.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.
• Able to work shifts and overtime.
• Strong communication and a positive team attitude.
• Willingness to learn and become multi-skilled with full training provided.

Responsibilities

• Operate plant machinery and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain housekeeping standards following 5S principles.
• Support onboarding and on-the-job training for new team members.
• Comply with PPE and health & safety policies at all times.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities such as Kaizen and visual management.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Teamwork

Communication

Flexibility

Job description

Are you looking for a hands-on role in a fast-paced manufacturing environment? We are working with a leading organisation in the metal production industry to recruitProduction Operativesto join their growing operations team.

About the Role

As a Production Operative, you’ll play a key part in the day-to-day running of the plant, ensuring productivity and quality standards are met. This is a varied role where no two days are the same, and you’ll be involved in operating machinery, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining high standards of health and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate plant machinery and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards in line with 5S principles.
• Support new team members and contribute to on-the-job training.
• Comply with PPE and health & safety policies at all times.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities such as Kaizen and visual management.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment (metal industry experience is a plus).
• Understanding of lean manufacturing principles.
• Ability to work shifts and overtime when required.
• Strong communication skills and a positive team attitude.
• Willingness to learn and become multi-skilled (full training provided).

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
• Operation of overhead cranes and machinery.
• Exposure to varying light levels and inclimatic conditions.
• Hearing protection required.

Why Apply?

• Competitive pay and overtime opportunities.
• Full training and development provided.
• Be part of a supportive team in a well-established organisation.