Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Seasonal Utility Operator, working 12-hour shifts to ensure smooth sugar production.
- Company: British Sugar has been a leading sugar producer in the UK for over 110 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, annual leave bonuses, and a pension scheme with matched contributions.
- Why this job: Be part of a historic factory, gain hands-on experience, and work in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in machine operations or food processing is preferred; safety awareness is essential.
- Other info: Availability over Christmas is required, with a bonus for bank holiday work.
Job Description
British Sugar is a world class sugar producer and has been a major player within UK agriculture for over 110 years.
Cantley factory, located in the heart of the Norfolk Broads just 30 minutes from Norwich, was the first beet sugar factory in the UK and has been producing sugar on site since 1912. Each September we begin our sugar production cycle; we are currently recruiting six Operatives to join our team during this busy time.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for individuals to join our team on a fixed-term contract from October 2025 to the end of March 2026.
Ideally you will have experience of:
- Machine operations
- Manual handling
- Food processing or heavy industries
- Pedestrian operated pallet truck
If you understand the priority of safety, are a self-motivator, a great communicator, can follow instructions and site procedures, we want to hear from you.
What you'll be doing
This role follows a 4-on, 4-off shift pattern, with each shift lasting 12 hours.
Key duties include:
- Manually changing slicer blocks into and out of the slicing machines and use of the hand tools to change cutting blades in slicer blocks to ensure the quality & quantity of sliced beet is maintained.
- Cleaning duties within the slicing area and across the factory. Includes use of pressure washing equipment and physical cleaning methods such as brushing/shoveling.
- Inspection of filtration equipment and manually cleaning the equipment, including replacement of filter cloths.
- Walking the plant and looking out for any issues to raise to the site process team.
- Assisting with laboratory analysis, getting samples, and performing tests
You will be required to be available to work over the Christmas period, however a bank holiday bonus will be awarded if you are required.
Due to the nature of this role, you may be required to change your working pattern however notice will be given.
What we can offer you
- A competitive salary £14.44 – £18.19/hr
- Annual leave is pro-rated over duration of contract and paid as a bonus at the end of contract.
- A 'Retention' bonus is available based on attendance and performance – paid at end of contact.
- Overtime (not guaranteed but may be available (£22.06/hr). Incentive for any bank holidays worked)
- 4% pension matched.
- PPE provided.
We are committed to creating an environment where all our people are treated with respect and given the opportunities to succeed. We want British Sugar to be a great, inclusive place to work for everyone.
A NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES:
We prefer to hire people directly, but we do have a preferred supplier list for when we need a helping hand. We'll be in touch directly if we need you!
Req ID: ((id))
Seasonal Utility Operator employer: British Sugar PLC
Contact Detail:
British Sugar PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Utility Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific machinery and processes used in sugar production. Understanding how slicing machines operate and the importance of maintaining quality will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in manual handling or food processing during your conversations. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the physical demands of the job and your understanding of safety protocols.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your availability, especially over the Christmas period. Showing flexibility and a willingness to work during peak times can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Emphasise your communication skills and ability to follow instructions. Being able to effectively communicate with team members and adhere to site procedures is crucial in a factory environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Utility Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Seasonal Utility Operator position. Highlight your relevant experience in machine operations, manual handling, or food processing in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the job. Emphasise any previous experience that aligns with the duties mentioned, such as cleaning duties, inspection of equipment, or working in a team environment.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation for applying and how your skills match the role. Mention your understanding of safety protocols and your ability to follow instructions, as these are crucial for this position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, proofread your application to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at British Sugar PLC
✨Show Your Safety Awareness
Since safety is a top priority for the role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you have implemented them in previous jobs. Share specific examples where you prioritised safety in machine operations or manual handling.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Seasonal Utility Operator, you'll need to communicate effectively with your team. During the interview, highlight instances where you successfully collaborated with others or followed instructions to achieve a common goal.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to emphasise any experience you have in food processing, heavy industries, or operating machinery. Be ready to discuss specific tasks you've performed that relate directly to the duties outlined in the job description.
✨Be Flexible and Adaptable
The role requires a willingness to change working patterns and work over the Christmas period. Express your flexibility and readiness to adapt to the needs of the factory, and mention any past experiences where you successfully adjusted to changing circumstances.