At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage production schedules and stock control for a leading dairy company.
- Company: Join Dale Farm, a top UK dairy co-operative with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension, life assurance, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and make a real impact in production planning.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in a similar role, strong IT skills, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Dale Farm Cooperative is a UK dairy farmer co-operative owned by over 1200 dairy farmers who supply us with fresh milk. Dale Farm has operations throughout the UK and Ireland producing and distributing a wide range of dairy products which it sells across the UK and Ireland as well as exporting to over 45 countries worldwide.
At Dale Farm, virtually every career discipline is represented in our workforce, from production, engineering and distribution, to sales & marketing and food technology/quality assurance, to Finance, HR and IT through to general management. Our standards are high and when we recruit we are looking for those with energy and drive, who are keen for responsibility and motivated to succeed with a record of achievement and with the potential to develop as the company grows.
Culture
Our culture is based on setting best in class standards, working towards and delivering on committed objectives, striving for constant improvement and involving everyone in the company. We strive to develop our people and harness everyone's contribution to deliver a winning team. The company is an Equal Opportunities employer and is committed to a safe, inclusive and relationship-based workspace.
In return, we offer a high degree of responsibility, plenty of challenge, good opportunities for learning and personal development and rewarding benefit packages, all within a fast-moving and results-oriented environment.
Production Planner - Maternity cover (9-12 months)
As site Production Planner, you will be an integral part of the team ensuring a robust production plan is maintained, alongside stock control management both internally and externally. You will become a key member of the site management team, working closely alongside the site Production Manager to facilitate all production scheduling.
The Role:
- Management of Weekly / Daily Production Schedules
- Management of Finished Good Stocks and movements
- Stock control of all raw materials and packaging
- Monitoring and reporting of sales vs forecast data to internal stakeholders
- Creation and management of POs for all materials purchased to meet business needs
- Responsibility for the management of any non-conforming goods
- Participating in weekly & monthly stock reconciliations, resolving any discrepancies
- Working closely with the central planning team and tracking of site planning performance
- Driving efficiencies and business improvement within the role
The Person:
- Good level of general education
- Understanding of stock management principles
- Strong IT skillset to include Excel and competency in working with various systems
- Strong communication skills and an ability to communicate effectively across a range of both internal and external stakeholders
- Strong attention to detail / analytical skills
- Ability to prioritise workflow
- 3+ years’ experience within a similar role
We are looking for a candidate that is self-motivated and will possess the drive to progress within this new role. The successful candidate will be flexible to adapt in their role as group requirements progress, and confident working within a fast-moving environment. This role represents an excellent career opportunity to join a leading local company. The Company also provides an excellent benefits package including competitive salary, contributory pension and life assurance.
Only applications from EU Nationals or those with a valid permit to work in the UK will be accepted. Completed application form must be received by 5pm on Tuesday 29th September 2026. Unsolicited CVs from Agencies will not be accepted.
Production Planner in Kilrea employer: Dale Farm
Dale Farm Cooperative is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees are encouraged to take on responsibility and contribute to a winning team. With a strong focus on personal development, competitive benefits, and a commitment to safety and inclusivity, Dale Farm provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about the food industry, particularly in the vibrant setting of dairy production. The cooperative culture fosters collaboration and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for motivated individuals to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Planner in Kilrea
✨Get Your Hands Dirty in the Industry
For a temporary role in manufacturing, don’t shy away from physically visiting local factories and production sites. A friendly walk-in can often lead to spontaneous interviews or valuable connections, and can really help you get a sense of the workplace vibe.
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Windows
Manufacturing often sees spikes in hiring during particular seasons, like summer when production ramps up. Keep an eye on local job boards and community centres, or even visit seasonal job fairs—they’re golden for snagging those temporary roles we’re after.
✨Join Industry-Specific Communities
Consider joining online forums and social media groups specific to manufacturing. Sites like Reddit or even LinkedIn groups can give you insights into open positions and allow you to connect with current employees who might give you an edge in the hiring process.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site!
With Dale Farm looking for temporary talent, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s often the fastest way to get your foot in the door, so make the most of it. Plus, it shows you're proactive—always a win!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Planner in Kilrea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Skills:In manufacturing and production, hands-on skills are key! Make sure your CV showcases any relevant experience with machinery, quality control, or assembly line work. If you’ve got certifications related to operating specific equipment, don’t forget to include those too!
Focus on Flexibility and Adaptability:For a temporary role, employers are looking for candidates who can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly and work well under pressure. Share any experiences where you've successfully adjusted to changing circumstances or tight deadlines.
Include Specific Measurements of Your Impact:Manufacturing roles often revolve around efficiency and productivity. If you’ve previously worked in similar roles, be sure to quantify your achievements. For example, mention how you improved production rates or reduced waste – numbers stand out and show you mean business!
Express Your Interest in the Industry:Temporary roles can be a great stepping stone for future opportunities! Take a moment in your application to express why you’re interested in manufacturing and production. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make a real difference and may keep doors open for upcoming positions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dale Farm
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
In the manufacturing and production world, they want to see that you can actually handle the tools and machines. Bring along any certifications you have or even pictures of projects you’ve worked on. We want to demonstrate that you're not just a theory person but someone who can jump right in.
✨Emphasise Safety Knowledge
Safety's a huge deal in manufacturing, so make sure you’re clued up about health and safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you've followed safety protocols in past roles. It's all about showing you can contribute to a safe working environment at Dale Farm.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since this is a temporary role, highlight your adaptability and willingness to step into different roles as needed. Share examples of times you’ve adjusted quickly to new situations or tackled varied tasks. We want to show you're the go-to person when things get busy!
✨Ask About Team Dynamics
In any temporary role, fitting in quickly is vital. Ask about team dynamics and collaboration processes during the interview. This shows you’re not only ready to contribute but also keen to blend into Dale Farm’s culture, making you a valuable asset.
