Multi Point Folder Gluer Machine Operator

Location: Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Salary: £16.30 - £20.35 per hour (depending on experience and machine capability)

Join one of Europe's leading independent packaging manufacturers.

What you'll earn:

• £16.30 - £20.35 per hour, depending on experience and ability
• Permanent contract
• Standard 6-month probation period
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Shift Pattern:

• You'll work a rotating double day shift on a 9-day fortnight:
• Early Shift: Monday to Friday 5:30am - 1:45pm (38.75 hours per week)
• Late Shift: Monday to Wednesday 1:45pm - 12:00am; Thursday 1:45pm - 11:45pm; Friday afternoon not normally worked (38.75 hours per week)

(All shifts include a 30-minute unpaid lunch break.)

About the Role:

You'll be responsible for producing high-quality products at optimum machine speeds while minimising waste and maximising Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical ability, attention to detail and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Carry out rapid, accurate machine make-readies to achieve target production speeds and OEE.
• Operate multi-point folder gluer machinery safely and efficiently.
• Produce work that meets customer specifications and approved master samples.
• Monitor product quality throughout production.
• Identify production issues and communicate them promptly to the Production Manager.
• Understand corrugated material types and identify material-related issues.
• Carry out daily machine maintenance and support Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) activities.
• Lead and support assistants, feeders, stackers and packers.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards using 5S principles.
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including machine safety systems, lock-off procedures, risk assessments and COSHH requirements.
• Support other production areas where required, in line with business needs and your capabilities.

What We're Looking For:

Essential:

• Minimum 2 years' experience operating folder gluer machinery.
• Experience with Vega, Signature, Bobst or Diana machines preferred.
• Ability to produce consistently high-quality work at speed while minimising waste.
• Strong machine set-up and make-ready skills.
• Excellent problem-solving ability with a focus on identifying root causes.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• Reliable, organised and able to prioritise workload.

Desirable:

• Experience producing 4-corner cartons, crash lock cartons, bookwraps, and corrugated envelopes.

The Ideal Candidate:

You'll be someone who:

• Takes pride in producing outstanding quality.
• Enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Is motivated by achieving production targets safely and efficiently.
• Is flexible and willing to learn additional machinery and processes.
• Remains calm under pressure.
• Has excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Is proactive, dependable and trustworthy.
• Inspires and supports colleagues.
• Looks for continuous improvement opportunities.
• Is comfortable working independently as well as part of a team.
• Knows when to seek support and communicates openly.

Why Join?

• Competitive hourly rate based on your skills and experience.
• Long-established, financially strong, family-owned business.
• Be part of a company leading the way in sustainable e-commerce packaging.
• Stable, permanent employment with opportunities to develop your skills across multiple machines.
• Supportive team environment focused on quality, innovation and continuous improvement.

If you're an experienced Folder Gluer Operator looking to join a growing manufacturer where quality, sustainability and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do, we'd love to hear from you.