At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead shift operations and manage a team to achieve production targets safely.
- Company: Join px Group, a leader in chemical manufacturing with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a boosted pension scheme, staff meals, and onsite parking.
- Other info: Shift role with a unique pattern and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in chemical manufacturing and a technical qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 28 September 2026
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Wyke
Reporting To: Operations Leader
Description
Our Business px PEOPLE, their commitment to excellence, innovation and teamwork, are the reason for px Group’s continuing growth and success story. We aim to be the elite provider of operations management, engineering services and energy management solutions in high hazard, highly regulated industries nationally and as we grow, across Europe and globally.
Located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, px Group’s Wyke Agrichemicals Manufacturing Plant site is one of the UK’s leading crop protection manufacturing facilities and an important part of px Group’s Chemical division. The site manufactures and supplies products that help farmers protect crops and produce more from the land. Wyke is a Top Tier COMAH site, operating a complex chemical manufacturing environment where safety, reliability and operational excellence are fundamental to everything we do.
The Opportunity
We are now recruiting for a First Line Manager. As a First Line Manager, you will play a critical role in delivering safe and reliable production by leading shift operations within your production area. You will manage day-to-day manufacturing activities, make operational decisions within your remit, and lead a team of operators to deliver the short-term production plan while meeting quality, safety and environmental standards.
You’ll be supported with personalised on the job training, coaching, mentoring and twice-yearly development and performance reviews to help maintain & develop your contributions and competence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead shift operations to ensure production targets are achieved safely and to quality standards
- Directly manage, train and develop a team of Operators, including competence validation
- Maintain high levels of SHE and process safety awareness and compliance at all times
- Ensure operations are carried out in line with standard operating procedures and permits
- Coordinate with Maintenance, Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics and QC to minimise downtime
- Participate in safety audits, risk assessments, HAZOPs, COSHH reviews and incident investigations
- Prepare plant and permits for maintenance, engineering work, hot work and confined space entry
- Maintain accurate production, raw material and inventory records within the ERP system
- Support emergency response activities as part of the site Emergency Response Team
- Drive housekeeping standards, 5S ownership and waste minimisation within the area
Minimum Requirements
We’re looking for someone with hands-on experience in a chemical or process manufacturing environment who is ready to take responsibility for people, plant and performance on shift. A technical qualification (HND/ONC or equivalent experience) is essential, with supervisory or leadership experience highly valued. You’ll be confident working within strict safety and process controls, comfortable making decisions under pressure, and motivated to continuously improve performance. This role is a shift role working 2-day shifts (12 hours) 2 nights shifts (12 hours) then 4 off. This repeats 7 times then there is an 18-day break. Holidays are included in the shift pattern.
What you will receive from us
- A boosted pension scheme – we’ll match 1.25% to every 1% you pay (up to 8%)
- Simply Health Cash Plan
- Staff Meals
- Onsite parking
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Please note this role may close early or be extended depending on the volume of applications.
First Line Manager employer: px Group
At pxFairport, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. As a Finance Coordinator, you will benefit from personalised training, regular performance reviews, and a range of perks including generous holiday allowance and flexible benefits, all within a dynamic environment that values your contributions and fosters growth in the thriving sectors we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land First Line Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like px Group, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace First Line Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to px Group specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at px Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with px Group, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like px Group value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
