Run Plant Support

Victrex Plc; Thornton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical manufacturing company in the UK is seeking a Run Plant Support professional to join their team. This position involves supporting the production teams to enhance operational efficiency and quality. Responsibilities include developing procedures, resolving issues, and conducting technical investigations. Candidates should possess at least 5 GCSEs including English and Maths and ideally have an HNC/HND in Engineering. The role offers competitive salary and benefits aligned with a commitment to sustainability.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Inclusive company culture

Commitment to sustainability

Qualifications

• Must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English and Maths.
• Desirable to have HNC/HND in Engineering.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Support Run Plant Engineers and shift teams with operational activities.
• Develop standard operating procedures.
• Conduct technical investigations for safety and quality deviations.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Knowledge of manufacturing processes

Education

5 GCSEs including English and Maths at minimum of Grade C/4

HNC/HND in a relevant Engineering discipline

Tools

SHE performance standards

FMEA

Lean manufacturing principles

Job description

We are excited to announce an opportunity for a dedicated individual to join our chemical plant support team in the pivotal role of Run Plant Support. This position is a day support role to the production teams and offers a chance to contribute significantly to our production efficiency and quality, ensuring continuous operational excellence. Working closely with the run plant engineers, a successful candidate will develop excellent working relationships with the production teams, support live issues and also plan and implement longer term improvements in line with the area strategy.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to the Run Plant Engineers and shift teams with core operational activities, including:
  • Development of standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Resolution of customer complaints and undertaking corrective action report (CAR) investigations
  • Improvement to overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
  • Support the creation of a lean manufacturing environment
  • Action updates to failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) to ensure continuous improvement of processes
• Support the resolution of safety and quality deviations by undertaking technical investigation and assisting with root cause analysis (RCA)
• Work to a high standard of SHE performance, supporting the achievement of yearly SHE objectives
• Support the maintenance and collection of equipment performance data, identifying and implementing mechanisms for operator engagement to ensure accurate data collection
• Implement operational actions from management of change submissions, including operating instruction updates, training briefs, logistical improvements, etc.
• Provide support to the shift teams in core operational activities including permit to work, troubleshooting, trend analysis and reporting
• Execute initial problem solving methodologies to resolve plant issues at the local level (yellow belt / 4C)

Qualifications

• At least 5 GCSEs including English and Maths at minimum of Grade C/4, or equivalent – Essential
• HNC/HND in a relevant Engineering discipline – Desirable

Victrex is an innovative world leader in high-performance PEEK (Poly Ether Ether Ketone) and PAEK (Poly Aryl Ether Ketone) polymer solutions focusing on the strategic markets of automotive, aerospace, energy and industrial, electronics and medical. Every day, millions of people use products and applications containing our materials — from smartphones, aeroplanes and cars to energy operations and medical devices. With over 40 years' experience, we are developing world leading solutions with PEEK and PAEK-based polymers and selected semi-finished and finished parts which enable environmental and societal benefit for our customers and our markets and drive value for our shareholders. At Victrex, we have a clear purpose: to deliver transformational and sustainable solutions that address global material challenges. Our core values of passion, innovation, and performance are at the heart of everything we do. We are a company that thrives on human‑centred leadership, valuing curiosity, adaptability, and collaboration in a fast‑paced, digitally enabled world. We believe in empowering individuals, rather than seeing barriers to progress. We are looking for individuals who are comfortable working in an environment that values digital and AI‑driven solutions, who see technology as an enabler rather than a challenge. We foster a culture of continuous learning, agility, and adaptability, where employees are encouraged to embrace new ways of working, leverage data‑driven insights, and drive meaningful change. As we continue to evolve, we need people who are not just contributors but change accelerators — individuals who champion innovation, and drive transformation with a growth mindset. Whether through digitalisation, process improvement, or human‑centred leadership, our employees play a crucial role in shaping the future of our business. Our leadership approach is built on empowerment, inclusion, and collaboration. We value people who lead with empathy and authenticity, fostering a workplace where diverse perspectives and ideas can thrive. We work hard to ensure that our teams are engaged, motivated, and equipped to navigate an ever‑changing landscape. Sustainability is core to our strategy. We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint while supporting society through our sustainable products and making a positive impact on our local communities. We are proud to be recognised as a 'Disability Confident' employer and to be voted as one of the best places to work by 'The Sunday Times' not just once, but for two years in succession! A testament to our people‑first culture, where innovation and adaptability thrive in a digital‑first, AI‑driven workplace; we are proud to have once again retained this very prestigious award! As well as being recognised as one of the 'Most Admired Companies in the Chemical Sector' by The London Stock Exchange: Recognition of our commitment to excellence, transformation, and data‑driven insights, empowering every team member to embrace change and drive success. We’re also delighted to be acknowledged as a top performer in the FTSE Women Leaders Review for Women in Leadership and Women on Boards! Victrex has been ranked joint 4th among UK‑listed FTSE 250 companies, standing alongside much larger peers.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and attractive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic and supportive environment.
• Inclusion in a culture driven by passion, innovation, and performance.
• Being part of a company committed to sustainability and positive societal impact.