Shift Leader

Chesterfield Poultry; Doncaster; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Chesterfield Poultry currently seeks a Shift Leader to supervise daily food manufacturing operations in Doncaster, ensuring safe, efficient production that meets quality standards. The role supports the Production Manager, drives OEE and KPI reporting, and coordinates with dispatch and QA teams.

Ideal candidates have 3–5 years in food manufacturing, a relevant degree, and strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level or higher in food science/engineering related field.
• 3–5 years in food manufacturing and Dispatch Operations.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMP and food safety standards.
• Experience leading production teams and coordinating with QA.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily production activities on the floor.
• Ensure production targets (volume, OEE, yield, efficiency) are met.
• Coordinate with Quality Assurance for compliance and corrective actions.
• Monitor workflow and adjust schedules to meet on-time in full KPIs.
• Manage material availability and minimise waste.
• Oversee maintenance and report equipment issues.

Skills

Regulations knowledge

Leadership

Problem solving under pressure

Production & dispatch planning

Lean manufacturing

Communication skills

Education

BSc in Food Science

BSc in Food Technology

BSc in Industrial Engineering

BSc in Manufacturing/Production Engineering

Job description

Shift Leader

Location: Coulman Road, Thorne, Doncaster, South Yorkshire

Salary: Up to £50K dependent on experience

Vacancy Type: Permanent

A Shift Manager in food manufacturing supports the Production Manager in overseeing daily manufacturing operations to ensure products are made safely, efficiently, on time, and within quality standards.

Production Operations

• Supervise daily production activities on the floor.
• Ensure production targets (volume, OEE, yield, efficiency) are met.
• Monitor workflow and adjust schedules as needed.
• Reduce downtime and improve productivity.

Food Safety & Quality Compliance

Ensure compliance with:

• HACCP
• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)
• FDA / local food regulations
• ISO / FSSC standards (if applicable)
• Monitor hygiene, sanitation, and CCPs (Critical Control Points)
• Coordinate with Quality Assurance teams

Team Management

• Supervise line leaders and production staff and Dispatch Operations.
• Conduct shift briefings.
• Train employees on SOPs and safety procedures.
• Handle attendance, discipline, and performance issues.

Inventory & Materials Control

• Coordinate raw material availability.
• Minimise waste and product loss.
• Monitor packaging material usage.
• Ensure outload of materials are conducted in a timely manner to achieve on time in full KPIs.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Ensure machinery is operating properly.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance.
• Report breakdowns and reduce production delays.
• Report shortages predicted to enable this to be managed with customers.

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain production reports.
• Track KPIs (OEE, yield, downtime, OTIS, waste).
• Prepare daily/weekly performance summaries.
• Manage 121s for direct line reports.

Required Skills

• Knowledge of food safety regulations.
• Leadership & people management.
• Problem-solving under pressure.
• Understanding of production & dispatch planning.
• Basic knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.
• Good communication skills.

Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science
• Food Technology
• Industrial Engineering
• Manufacturing/Production Engineering
• 3-5 years experience in food manufacturing and Dispatch Operations.

Shifts are the following:

• Monday to Friday
• Occasional weekend work during peak seasons

Shifts

40 hours per week with one hour for lunch unpaid

Rotating:

• 08.30 - 17.30 Week 1
• 11.00 - 20.00 Week 2
• 15.00 - Finish (1am usually)Week 3
• When working 15.00 onwards shift allowance of £100 will be provided per week.
• CMI / ILM Level 3 / 5 qualification post 6 months service with huge development opportunities.