Trainee Plant Manager

Senex Recruitment Ltd; Playden; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A chemical plant management recruitment agency is seeking a Trainee Plant Manager in Rye, East Sussex. This full-time, permanent role offers hands-on training in plant operations and a clear career path towards management. No prior management experience is required, though a background in chemistry or chemical engineering is advantageous. Ideal candidates will possess strong communication and people skills, with a willingness to learn. Competitive salary, benefits, and a supportive environment are offered.

Benefits

Structured training and development

Competitive salary and benefits

Bonus and pension

Qualifications

• No prior management experience required.
• Chemistry or Chemical Engineering background advantageous.
• Previous experience in the chemicals industry is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Support the Production Manager in daily plant operations.
• Apply Health, Safety & Environmental procedures.
• Work with shift teams to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Assist in coaching and training staff.
• Manage plant performance and production KPIs.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Strong people skills

Effective communication

Interest in responsibility

Education

Graduate in a related STEM subject

Job description

Trainee Plant Manager – Rye | Permanent | Full-Time

Looking to start your career in chemical plant management? Senex Recruitment is recruiting a Trainee Plant Manager in Rye, East Sussex. This is a hands‑on training role where you’ll learn all aspects of running a chemical processing plant, with the goal of eventually leading a team of Production Operators.

About the Role

This is a fully supported trainee position designed to develop future plant managers. You’ll work closely with the Production Manager and operational teams to gain experience in:

• Production planning and scheduling
• Health, Safety & Environmental compliance
• Coaching, training, and assessing staff
• Managing operational processes and KPIs
• Continuous improvement initiatives

No prior management experience is needed. A chemistry or Chemical Engineering or Process Industry background or previous experience in chemicals is advantageous but not essential. You could be a graduate in a related STEM subject looking for a first or second job in industry. Most importantly, we are looking for candidates with:

• A willingness to learn
• Strong people skills and communication
• Enthusiasm for taking on responsibility

Over 18–24 months, you’ll gain the confidence and expertise to manage the production team independently.

Key Responsibilities in the Trainee Production Manager Job

• Support the Production Manager in daily plant operations
• Apply Health, Safety & Environmental procedures
• Work with shift teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations
• Assist in coaching, training, and competency assessments
• Support continuous improvement and efficiency initiatives
• Manage plant performance, stock, and production KPIs
• Prepare to take over a team of Production Operators once fully trained

What is on Offer

• Structured training and development in a chemical manufacturing environment
• Hands‑on experience across all aspects of plant operations
• A clear career path toward a management role
• Competitive salary and benefits plus bonus and pension

Working hours: 08:00–16:30, Monday–Friday

Location: Rye, East Sussex

Why this Trainee Production Manager job?

This role offers the chance to make a real impact while developing your skills in a supportive environment. You’ll step into a position where your contribution genuinely matters—whether that’s improving processes, supporting production, or helping a team deliver high‑quality engineering and manufacturing outcomes.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to start your career in chemical plant management and enjoy learning the technical and operational aspects of the business while developing your leadership skills, apply today via Senex Recruitment!

To learn more about the role or to add a personal introduction to your application, contact Kevin McHugh at Senex Recruitment on 01424 211872.