At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate machines to produce high-quality animal food and ensure safety standards.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturer with a commitment to quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Earn £15.07 per hour, plus overtime and fantastic perks like gym discounts and free hot drinks.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with generous time off and a supportive, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that creates products pets love while enjoying great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing and ability to lift up to 25 kg required.
The predicted salary is between 32913 - 32913 £ per year.
Machine Operative – Extruder (Thirsk, UK)
Job reference: a792ea242d8ae632632b243d14569f47
Posted: 23.05.2026 – 07.07.2026
Responsibilities
- Responsible for extrusion of a variety of animal food, including dog, cat, and small animal dry kibble.
- Manage blending, mixing, and cooking of raw materials to ensure kibble meets specifications.
- Perform pre‑start checks and ensure safe working practices.
- Carry out hourly production checks and report any issues immediately.
- Maintain quality standards and comply with Food Safety legislation.
- Operate within the shift schedule (day or night).
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
- Experience in a similar manufacturing role.
- Live within 30‑mile radius of YO7 3HE and have own transport.
- Good standard of education; literacy and numerical skills.
- Manual handling ability – able to lift up to 25 kg.
- Food Hygiene Accreditation desirable.
What's on offer?
- £15.07 per hour (including shift allowance) – £32,913 annual salary plus overtime.
- 42 hours per week with shift patterns: day (6am‑6pm) or night (6pm‑6am). 4‑week cycle; 1–3 consecutive days off; 1 block of 7 days off.
Benefits:
- Overtime, enhanced pension, life assurance, enhanced maternity, paternity, sick pay, holiday buy options, healthcare cashback plan, Hertility at‑home fertility testing, discounted pet food & lifestyle benefits, retail & gym discounts, electric car scheme, free onsite parking & charging, onsite canteen, free hot drinks and modern facilities.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. We make hiring decisions based on talent, potential and the experience you bring. We are also committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring equitable access and opportunity for all.
Machine Operator in Dalton employer: Occupop
As a Machine Operator at our Thirsk facility, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to producing high-quality animal food in a supportive and inclusive environment. We offer competitive pay, generous benefits including enhanced pension and healthcare plans, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, all while enjoying modern facilities and a strong commitment to work-life balance. Our culture prioritises safety, quality, and diversity, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Operator in Dalton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even former colleagues who might have connections in the manufacturing sector. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Machine Operator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards. We want you to show off your expertise and how you can maintain quality standards in the production process.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your manual handling skills during interviews. Being able to lift and manage materials is crucial for this role, so let’s make sure they know you’re up for the task!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at getting noticed! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Machine Operator in Dalton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in manufacturing roles, especially any work with food production. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your literacy and numerical skills, as well as any manual handling experience. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to meet our quality standards.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to read and get straight to the point about why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Occupop
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of extrusion processes and animal food production. Familiarise yourself with the specific types of kibble you'll be working with, as well as any relevant food safety regulations. This will show that you're serious about the role and understand the industry.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous manufacturing roles and how they relate to this position. Highlight any experience you have with blending, mixing, or cooking raw materials. If you've done pre-start checks or quality control before, make sure to mention those skills!
✨Safety First
Since safety is a big part of the job, prepare to talk about your understanding of safe working practices. Think of examples where you've ensured safety in past roles, especially in a manufacturing environment. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe workplace.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the shift patterns, team dynamics, or any training opportunities available. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
