General Operative - Retail

Kepak Group; Watergrasshill; On-site; EUR 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wage increases

Career progression opportunities

Cash-sale company produce

Full training

Permanent contract

Subsidised canteen

Free on-site parking

Flexible holiday planning

Paid 20-minute morning break

Job summary

Kepak Cork in Watergrasshill is recruiting for roles in our Retail Department, joining a busy production team in a chilled environment. You will learn and contribute to packaging a variety of meat products and handling pork, beef and lamb in a temperature-controlled setting.

We offer full training, permanent contracts, and opportunities for career progression, with a strong emphasis on safety, initiative, and teamwork within a multi‑cultural workforce.

Qualifications

• Previous food production experience is an advantage but not essential.
• Manufacturing experience is beneficial; full training will be provided.
• A strong work ethic, good character and a self-driven attitude.
• Power Pallet Truck or Forklift experience is helpful, but training can be arranged.
• Ability to use your own initiative and work independently when required.
• Flexibility with working hours to support operational needs.
• A positive, energetic approach and willingness to work as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn and support additional tasks when needed.
• A safety-conscious mindset with commitment to following all safety guidelines.
• Effective communication skills and strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Packaging a variety of meat products including steaks, chops, burgers, meatballs and more.
• Handling pork, beef and lamb products as part of daily duties.
• Working in a temperature-controlled (chilled) environment for the duration of your shift.
• Carrying out general production activities that may involve movement and being on your feet for extended periods.
• Operating machinery only after full training has been provided.
• Supporting additional tasks as directed by your Line Supervisor, depending on operational needs.

Skills

Food production experience

Manufacturing experience

Strong work ethic

Power Pallet Truck or Forklift

Initiative

Flexibility in hours

Energetic attitude

Willingness to learn

Safety consciousness

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Tools

Pallet truck forklift experience

Job description

About Kepak:

Kepak Group is a proud Irish company and one of Europe’s leading meat processors. Our well‑known brands — including Rustlers and Big Al’s — are enjoyed in households across the country, and we partner with many of Ireland’s top supermarkets.

At Kepak, we’re ambitious about growing our business, but equally committed to helping our people grow their skills, careers and job satisfaction. When you join us, you become part of a team that values hard work, development and opportunity.

Our Kepak Cork site is based in Watergrasshill, Co. Cork — just 35 minutes from Cork City and 20 minutes from Fermoy — offering a strong, supportive workplace in a well‑established facility.

Positions Available:

• We are currently seeking motivated individuals to join our team at Kepak Cork. As part of our multi‑cultural and diverse workforce, you’ll have the opportunity to learn, develop and build your knowledge of the food industry. We are committed to supporting internal growth, offering real opportunities to progress your career within the business.
• Kepak Cork is now recruiting for roles within our Retail Department, where you will play an important part in our production operations.

Please note: The factory is situated in a location with limited access to public transport, so reliable private transport is recommended.

Working hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please note that an occasional night shift cover (4:00 pm – 2:00 am) will be required. This may be needed to cover annual leave, sickness absence, or other operational requirements.

What to expect in the job?

This position involves working as part of a busy production team in a chilled environment. Key responsibilities include:

• Packaging a variety of meat products, including steaks, chops, burgers, meatballs and other items as required.
• Handling pork, beef and lamb products as part of daily duties.
• Working in a temperature‑controlled (chilled) environment for the duration of your shift.
• Carrying out general production activities that may involve movement and being on your feet for extended periods.
• Operating machinery only after full training has been provided.
• Supporting additional tasks as directed by your Line Supervisor, depending on operational needs.

What we need from you?

• Previous food production experience is an advantage, but not essential
• Manufacturing experience is beneficial, though full training will be provided
• A strong work ethic, good character and a self‑driven attitude
• Power Pallet Truck or Forklift experience is helpful, but training can be arranged
• Ability to use your own initiative and work independently when required
• Flexibility with working hours to support operational needs
• A positive, energetic approach and willingness to work as part of a team
• Ability to perform in a fast‑paced environment
• Willingness to learn and support additional tasks when needed
• A safety‑conscious mindset with commitment to following all safety guidelines
• Effective communication skills
• Strong attention to detail

What can we offer you?

• Wage increases linked to internal training and skill development
• Career progression opportunities within the business

• Ability to purchase cash‑sale company produce

• Full training provided for all roles

• Permanent contract

• Subsidised canteen, including a free culture‑conscious themed meal once a month

• Free on‑site parking

• Flexible holiday planning

• Paid 20‑minute morning break

Connect with Kepak:

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