At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate machinery to produce delicious chocolates and snacks while ensuring quality and efficiency.
- Company: Join a fast-growing company known for innovative brands like Forest Feast and Acti-Snack.
- Benefits: Earn £12.75 - £13.55 per hour, enjoy 30 days holiday, and access a Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making tasty products that everyone loves!
- Qualifications: Experience in food manufacturing and strong attention to detail are essential.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available with opportunities for career growth and recognition.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 14 £ per hour.
Our company is growing and expanding and we have many opportunities to join our production team in our fast-growing business that makes innovative chocolates, snacks & granola under our Forest Feast, Acti-Snack & Just Live a Little brands, sold throughout the UK & Ireland. We are hiring experienced Machine Operatives for Days, Evening & Night Shifts. These are key roles within our production team, operating automated packing and processing equipment and responsible for:
- Running machinery and equipment to customer specifications
- Interpretation of production plan to maximise efficiencies and assist with LEAN projects to reduce waste and cost
- Prepare essential paperwork to ensure full traceability of production from raw material to finished and packed goods
- Working in a safe manner with due consideration for personal Health & Safety and that of co-workers at all times
- Allergen, food hygiene, HACCP, Pest Control, LEAN and BRC (training will be given)
- Cleaning of area on a routine basis
- Any other duties as required to fulfil the company needs
What you’ll need to succeed: You should have previous experience in a food manufacturing environment, operating machinery and can take ownership for driving continuous improvement in the role. You must have good organisational skills with strong attention to detail to make the best quality products. You should be able to work independently whilst being a good team player working cross-functionally with all departments.
What you’ll get in return:
- Competitive Salary of £12.75 - £13.55 per hour, with shift allowance for Evening Shift
- 30 days holidays, rising to 33 days on length of service
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Long Service Award Scheme
- Life Assurance
- Pension
- Culture of recognition
Hours of work: we have vacancies on all our shifts. Day Shift: Monday to Friday; Evening Shift: Mon to Thursday 16.00 - 00.30, Friday; Night Shift: Monday to Thursday. This is a full-time post with flexibility for the right candidate.
What to do next if you are interested: Please forward your CV demonstrating how you meet the skills required by Friday 23rd January 2026. It is important to demonstrate that you meet all the criteria for the role.
Skills: Attention to detail, Teamwork, Continuous Improvement, Organisational Skills, Motivated.
Machine Operative employer: Kestrel Foods Ltd
Contact Detail:
Kestrel Foods Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research their brands like Forest Feast and Acti-Snack. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your approach and show them you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about the role and even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to machine operation and food safety. Think about examples from your past experience that highlight your attention to detail and teamwork skills—these are key for the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fast-growing production team. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Machine Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Machine Operative role. Highlight your experience in food manufacturing and operating machinery, as well as any relevant skills like attention to detail and teamwork. We want to see how you fit into our production team!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your duties; showcase your achievements! If you've driven continuous improvement or maximised efficiencies in previous roles, let us know. We love seeing how you’ve made a difference in your past positions.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, be clear and concise. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the point without fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kestrel Foods Ltd
✨Know Your Machinery
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the machinery you'll be operating. Familiarise yourself with the specific equipment mentioned in the job description and be ready to discuss how you've successfully operated similar machines in the past.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Since attention to detail is crucial for this role, prepare examples that highlight your ability to maintain high standards in production. Think about times when your meticulousness led to improved quality or efficiency.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
This position requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Be ready to share experiences where you collaborated effectively with others, as well as instances where you took initiative and drove improvements on your own.
✨Understand Health & Safety Protocols
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to food manufacturing. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work and any training you've had in areas like HACCP or allergen control.