Team Leader

Synthomer plc; Harlow; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical manufacturing company in Harlow seeks a Team Leader to oversee production operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring safety, proposing process improvements, and supervising staff. Applicants should have GCSEs, strong Microsoft Office skills, and ideally over 5 years of relevant experience in the manufacturing sector.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in industrial/chemical/process manufacturing experience.
• Detailed understanding of Alcotex production process and plant.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the operation of the production plant.
• Propose improvements to manufacturing and safety systems.
• Support Safe System Operations, including Permit to Work.

Skills

Chemical manufacturing operations

Process improvement

Microsoft Office

Education

GCSEs or equivalent

Job description

Time left to apply: End Date: August 15, 2025 (12 days left to apply)

Job Requisition ID: R6393

Purpose of the Job:

The role of Team Leader is to oversee the operation of the production plant under the supervision of the Production Shift Manager. The candidate should be competent in performing chemical and manufacturing operations safely, effectively, and efficiently. The role involves capturing process improvement opportunities by enhancing the integrity and reliability of site assets through Manufacturing Excellence tools, and supporting the Shift Manager during site emergencies.

Main Accountabilities:

• Operate the plant safely and efficiently, proposing improvements to manufacturing and safety systems.
• Be available for plant coverage outside normal hours on a voluntary basis.
• Communicate within the shift and handover to other shifts according to site standards.
• Assist Engineering during annual shutdowns and other maintenance activities.
• Support Factory Services with duties like tanker off-loading and loading.
• Assist the Shift Manager with safe system operations, including Permit to Work, Plant Isolations, and Safety Reviews.
• Report deficiencies or non-compliances to the Shift Manager.
• Supervise Alcotex operators in plant duties, housekeeping, and cleaning tasks.
• Ensure accurate and timely entry of shift loss accounting and SAP data to maintain OEE and raw material stocks.
• Follow the shift production rota and adhere to the Production Shift Handbook.
• Maintain batch documentation as required.
• Handle raw materials, products, and energies efficiently to minimize losses.
• Supervise external contractors when needed.
• Act as Deputy for the Shift Manager during absences.
• Assist in minimizing plant downtime and optimizing labor use.
• Qualifications: GCSEs or equivalent; good Microsoft Office skills; ideally, 5+ years in industrial/chemical/process manufacturing; detailed understanding of Alcotex production process and plant.

Contacts:

Andy Gross – Production Manager

Howard Gaines – Shift Manager

Why Synthomer?

We are ambitious! We have grown significantly and are a FTSE 250 company, with 22% of revenue from new products, recognized for top-quartile safety in chemical manufacturing.

We believe in high challenge, high support! We offer meaningful roles from day one, with onboarding, training, networking, mentoring, and development opportunities for a rewarding long-term career.

We personalize development! Our approach tailors experiences to build your capabilities and accelerate your career growth.