Trainee Butyl Polymers Finishing Operator

ExxonMobil; Southampton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A global energy company is searching for a Finishing Operator at their Fawley Refinery in the UK. Responsibilities include safe operation of rubber production equipment, monitoring operations, and product quality testing. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of a GCSE in relevant subjects and demonstrate strong teamwork and leadership skills. This role requires the ability to work 12-hour shifts and a commitment to safety. A competitive remuneration package is offered.

Benefits

£15,144 annual shift allowance

Defined benefit pension scheme

Private healthcare for employees and families

Qualifications

• Hold a valid driving license permitting you to drive a manual car in the United Kingdom.
• Be over the age of 18 years old on 2nd March 2026.
• Willingness to work at height in safety equipment.
• Ability to undertake 12-hour shift work.

Responsibilities

• Safe operation of equipment for rubber production.
• Monitoring and adjusting operations during shifts.
• Preventative maintenance of equipment.
• Conduct product quality testing.

Skills

Commitment to high standards & safety in the workplace

Leadership & decision-making capabilities

Effective communication & team working skills

Numeracy skills

Computer literacy

Education

C / 4 grade GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language, Mathematics and Science

Job description

Overview

We are currently recruiting Finishing Operators to join our team at our integrated Fawley Refinery and Chemical Complex in Hampshire. This role is part of the Butyl Polymer manufacturing plant and finishing operation. Working as part of a small shift team, Finishing Operators are responsible for drying, baling and packaging Butyl rubber in a manufacturing and factory environment. Focus is on safety, health, and the environment, ensuring reliable operations and maintaining high standards of product quality. There is an expectation for progression through all the Finishing roles to the field operator and console operator positions. You will be reporting to a Finishing Shift Leader.

Responsibilities

• Safe operation of equipment for rubber production.
• Monitoring and physically adjusting the operation during shift.
• Preventative maintenance and preparation of equipment for maintenance activities.
• Product quality testing.
• Manual handling of goods up to 25kg.
• Use of mobile equipment & forklift truck operation.
• Operating procedure & job pack updates. Incident / emergency response.

Application Process

• If your application meets or exceeds our minimum criteria following the closing date, you will be invited to take part in an online assessment.
• For candidates who successfully navigate the steps above, the final round encompasses a half day assessment at the Fawley site in November 2025.
• If your application is not successful at any stage, we will let you know as soon as we can.

About ExxonMobil and Benefits

ExxonMobil recognises that recruiting and developing the right people is key to our success and we look for applicants who demonstrate the right skills, attitudes, capability and potential. Our processes are designed to be robust, engaging and consistent. A competitive remuneration and benefits package includes an additional £15,144 annual shift allowance as the trainee moves to a fully rotating shift, defined benefit pension scheme, share incentive plan, and private healthcare for employees and their families. Benefits may be changed from time to time without notice, subject to applicable law.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Hold a minimum of a C / 4 grade GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language, Mathematics and Science.
• Hold a valid driving license permitting you to drive a manual car in the United Kingdom.
• Be over the age of 18 years old on 2nd March 2026.
• Have a willingness to work at height, in appropriate safety equipment (including breathing apparatus) and undertake 12-hour shift work (Days & Nights).
• Successful candidates should also be able to demonstrate: a commitment to high standards & safety in the workplace; leadership & decision-making capabilities; effective communication & team working skills; drive, motivation and commitment to ownership and completion of tasks; numeracy skills and computer literacy; a hands-on approach, practical mindset, and mechanical aptitude.
• Experience in industrial manufacturing is useful but not a requirement. The ability to work in a fast-paced team environment.

Notes

At ExxonMobil, our vision is to lead in energy innovations that advance modern living and a net-zero future. This job posting contains standard corporate information and references to the company’s broader initiatives.