At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate automated cheese production equipment and ensure high-quality standards.
- Company: Join Arla, a global leader in dairy with a modern production environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Flexible shifts in a dynamic, supportive workplace focused on development.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team shaping the future of dairy production.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing or food production is a plus; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Interested in working within one of the most modern and automated cheese production environments in the UK? We're looking for a VAT Room Operator to join our production team in Lockerbie. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility using advanced processing technology while helping deliver high-quality dairy products. You'll join a small, collaborative team operating a highly automated process where training and development are provided.
How you will make an impact
As a VAT Room Operator, you will play a key role in ensuring production runs safely, efficiently and to the highest quality standards. Working within our modern cheese processing operation, you will monitor plant performance, support production targets and contribute to continuous improvement activities.
- Operate and monitor automated process equipment and plant control systems
- Support safe, efficient and compliant production of dairy products
- Maintain high standards of quality, food safety and health & safety
- Investigate process issues and contribute to problem-solving activities
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives including 5S and operational excellence activities
The role operates within a 24-hour, 7-day production environment on a 3-2-2-3 shift pattern covering days and nights. Having a flexible attitude to hours of work is crucial which include weekend, shift working on a rota basis. You will be highlighting issues affecting daily plans, cooperating with Whey Process / Block former departments and maintenance to overcome obstacles and implement recovery plans.
What will make you successful
We're interested in candidates who have experience within manufacturing, FMCG, food production or other process-driven environments. Experience of plant control systems, SCADA, automated manufacturing equipment or production IT systems would be advantageous. If you have an understanding of membrane filtration, pasteurization and cheesemaking operations this would be highly desirable but full training will be provided to the right candidate, so this is not an essential requirement. A food manufacturing background, health & safety awareness and strong problem-solving skills will help you succeed in this role (desirable). Personally, you'll be a calm and level-headed team player who can work using your own initiative, adapt to changing priorities and contribute positively within a collaborative production team.
What do we offer?
In addition to a competitive salary, this is an opportunity to work in a highly automated, modern manufacturing environment and develop specialist dairy processing skills. You'll receive training and support from experienced colleagues while building a long-term career within one of the world's leading dairy businesses. We're committed to professional development and promoting from within. Our positive and collaborative culture helps employees learn, grow and succeed while contributing to production of household-favorite dairy brands.
Would you like to join us? If you'd like to be part of a modern manufacturing team and help shape the future of dairy production, we'd love to hear from you. Please apply through the Arla careers site.
For further information please contact: James Paisley – HR Recruitment Coordinator – jampa@arlafoods.com
Application Deadline: 23 September 2026
VAT room Production Operator - Lockerbie employer: ARLA
Arla is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its state-of-the-art Aylesbury Dairy, one of Europe's largest dairies. With a strong commitment to employee growth through extensive training opportunities and a culture that values collaboration and innovation, Arla fosters a high-performance engineering team dedicated to maintenance excellence. Enjoy competitive benefits, including a generous holiday allowance, health cover, and a supportive atmosphere that prioritises job satisfaction and career development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT room Production Operator - Lockerbie
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like ARLA, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace VAT room Production Operator - Lockerbie
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to ARLA specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARLA
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with ARLA, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like ARLA value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
