At a Glance
- Tasks: Set up and operate machines to ensure efficient production of quality food products.
- Company: Join Finnebrogue, a leading family-owned food business with a commitment to innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy subsidised meals, free breakfast, gym membership, and extra holiday for your birthday.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment recognised as a Best Place to Work.
- Why this job: Be part of a team making a real impact in the food industry while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Team player with good communication skills; previous food production experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 14.2 - 14.2 £ per hour.
As a Machine Operator at the bacon site (FBR) you will play a key role within the production team. We have four roles available on NIGHT SHIFT.
Job Purpose
You will be responsible for setting up and operating the machine to ensure it is configured to the correct product specifications, enabling efficient production and consistent product quality. The role also involves maintaining accurate product traceability through correct machine settings and production records, while ensuring all work is carried out in line with food safety, quality, and health and safety standards. Machine refers to a Slicer, Injection or Thermoformer.
Duties (may vary depending on machine being operated)
- Set up and operate machinery in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and health and safety requirements.
- Read and interpret product specifications, production plans, and work instructions to ensure efficient and accurate production.
- Carry out product and packaging changeovers in line with production schedules.
- Ensure products meet specification, including quality, weight, coding, packaging, and presentation.
- Complete product quality checks and accurately maintain production and traceability records.
- Monitor machine performance, make routine adjustments where trained, and support the achievement of production targets and KPIs.
- Carry out routine machine checks, basic maintenance, and report any equipment faults or quality concerns promptly.
- Minimise downtime and waste by responding quickly to stoppages and resolving minor issues where trained.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, housekeeping, and health and safety within the work area.
- Complete all required training and competency assessments.
What it takes
- Readiness to work and successfully complete all required training.
- Ability to work as part of a team, with self-motivation to succeed.
- Good communication skills.
- Demonstrate a high level of manual dexterity and be capable of meeting the physical demands of the role, including manual handling, lifting, and remaining on your feet throughout the working shift.
- It is desirable to have previous experience within a food production environment.
- All candidates should demonstrate core values at all times (Integrity, Respect and Accountability) and have an understanding of and commitment to our Equality and Diversity Policy and ability to promote this day to day.
Hours of work
- Sunday - Thursday, night-shift
- Machine Operator (Injection) 8:00pm - 6:00am
- Machine Operator (Slicer) 6:00pm - 4:00am
- Machine Operator (Thermoformer) 6:00pm - 4:00am
Rate of pay is from £14.20 per hour plus an additional 50p per hour night shift premium.
Benefits
- Enjoy subsidised meals and free breakfast options in our restaurant-style canteen.
- Free onsite parking with EV charging.
- Up to five free products each week through our award-winning Food Shack.
- A calendar of wellbeing, social and sporting events.
- Gym membership and a healthcare plan.
- Cycle to Work scheme and electric car scheme.
- An extra day's holiday for your birthday.
*Subject to qualifying service.
About us
Finnebrogue is part of Sofina Foods Europe, a family-owned global food business employing over 8,000 people across the UK and the Island of Ireland. United by a shared purpose of making food the best it can be, we combine innovation, quality and sustainability to create products that are better for people and the planet. Founded in County Down, Finnebrogue site has built a reputation for challenging convention and leading positive change in the food industry. Operating four state-of-the-art facilities in Downpatrick, we produce a wide range of premium bacon, sausages, burgers and plant-based products for leading retailers, alongside our award-winning Naked brand. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where colleagues can develop their skills, build rewarding careers and make a real impact. This commitment has earned us recognition as a Best Place to Work and Best Wellbeing in the Workplace, and Grocer Gold's Employer of the Year.
Skills: Food Safety, Leading a team, Machine operation
Machine Operator (various) employer: Finnebrogue
Finnebrogue in Downpatrick is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for those looking to join our seasonal production team. With benefits such as subsidised meals, free parking, and mental health support, we prioritise employee wellbeing while providing extensive training opportunities for personal and professional growth. Join us in creating high-quality food products and be part of a culture that values communication and continuous learning.