At a Glance
- Tasks: Support production, ensure quality, and assist with machine maintenance in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Graphic Packaging International, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy training, career progression, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract with potential for extension and excellent work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing skills in a global business.
- Qualifications: Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a positive team player attitude.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Join a global leader in sustainable packaging and build your future with us. At Graphic Packaging International, we don’t just produce packaging—we create innovative, sustainable solutions for some of the world’s most recognised food, beverage, and household brands. With a strong global presence and proud local roots, our Gateshead and Newburn sites are at the heart of high-quality, fast-paced manufacturing.
Our Newburn facility specialises in fresh food packaging, delivering smart, tailored solutions, while our Gateshead site produces premium printed paperboard packaging. Across both, you’ll find a culture built on teamwork, ambition, and continuous improvement.
We’re looking for motivated, curious, and driven individuals—people who take pride in their work, thrive in a team, and want to build a career in a growing global business.
About the Role
As a Finishing Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in keeping our production running smoothly—helping deliver quality products efficiently while learning and developing new skills along the way.
Shift Pattern
This is a fixed-term contract for 3 months, with the potential for extension based on performance and business needs. The role operates on a continental shift pattern, working:
- 6:00am - 6:00pm (day shifts)
- 6:00pm - 6:00am (night shifts)
You’ll follow a structured rotation that offers longer blocks of time off between shifts, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a better work-life balance and plan your time effectively. This pattern is ideal for individuals who enjoy a predictable schedule, value extended rest periods, and are looking for a role that fits around their lifestyle.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting the smooth running of production machinery
- Carrying out quality checks to ensure high standards are consistently met
- Working alongside Team Leaders on continuous improvement initiatives
- Assisting with basic machine maintenance (TPM activities)
- Ensuring all products meet customer specifications (colour, glue, alignment, finish, etc.)
- Maintaining excellent housekeeping, hygiene, and safety standards
- Completing in-process inspection documentation accurately
- Building strong working relationships across teams
- Providing support across shifts, including holiday/sickness cover
What We’re Looking For
We’re not just looking for experience—we’re looking for attitude and ambition:
- A strong work ethic and willingness to learn
- Excellent attention to detail and pride in quality
- A team player with a positive, can-do mindset
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- Reliable, punctual, and flexible
- Clear communication skills
- Self-motivated with a proactive approach
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a global business with real local impact
- Work in a supportive, team-driven environment
- Access training, development, and career progression opportunities
- Contribute to sustainable packaging solutions
- Be encouraged to bring ideas and drive improvement
Health & Safety Matters
We take safety seriously. You’ll be expected to follow all HSE standards, maintain a clean and safe workspace, and report any hazards or incidents immediately.
Our Values - Everything we do is guided by our core values: Act with Integrity, Be Accountable, Build Trust & Respect, Drive Continuous Improvement, Work as One Team. This is a no smoking site.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and join a company that values its people as much as its performance—apply today!
Address: Newburn, 19 Riversdale Court, Newcastle, NE15 8SG
Finishing Assistant - Newburn in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Gateshead/ Newburn
Graphic Packaging International is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and team-driven environment at our Newburn site, where you can contribute to innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide access to training and career progression opportunities, all while promoting a healthy work-life balance through our structured shift patterns. Join us to be part of a global leader that values integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finishing Assistant - Newburn in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Graphic Packaging International on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. Show us how your attitude and ambition align with their mission of sustainability and teamwork. We love candidates who resonate with our core values!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and quality standards. We want to see your strong work ethic and attention to detail shine through in your answers!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Newburn site!
We think you need these skills to ace Finishing Assistant - Newburn in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Finishing Assistant role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for, like teamwork and attention to detail.
Show Your Enthusiasm:We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the opportunity! Let your passion for sustainable packaging and working in a team shine through in your application.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your personality, so don’t be afraid to let it show!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure you apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gateshead/ Newburn
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research Graphic Packaging International. Understand their commitment to sustainable packaging and the specific role of the Newburn site in fresh food packaging. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is a big part of the culture at Graphic Packaging, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before. Highlight your positive attitude and willingness to support your colleagues, as this aligns with what they’re looking for in a Finishing Assistant.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
As a Finishing Assistant, quality checks are crucial. Be ready to discuss your experience with maintaining high standards and any relevant examples where your attention to detail made a difference. This will show that you take pride in your work and understand the importance of quality in production.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. Inquire about the training and development opportunities available, or ask how the team approaches continuous improvement initiatives. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also your desire to grow within the company.
