Synthomer is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection – growing markets that serve billions of end users worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK and publicly listed there since 1971, we employ c.3,900 employees across our 5 innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites across Europe, North America and Asia. Around 20% of our sales volumes are from new and patent protected products.
At our innovation centres of excellence in the UK, Germany, China, Malaysia and Ohio, USA we collaborate closely with our customers to develop new products and enhance existing ones tailored to their needs, with an increasing range of sustainability benefits. Since 2021, we have been proud holders of the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which recognises green technology businesses making a significant contribution to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated and adaptable Trainee Plant Operator to join our manufacturing team in Harlow. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with previous manufacturing or plant experience who is looking to develop a long-term career within a production environment.
During your first 8–10 months, you will complete a structured training programme across our Alcotex and Specialities plants. This period will give you exposure to a variety of production processes, equipment and operational responsibilities, allowing you to build a broad understanding of our manufacturing operations.
Following successful completion of the training programme, you will be positioned to move into a permanent Shift Operator role when vacancies arise.
Location: Harlow, Essex
Hours: Initial Training Phase (8–10 months):
Rotating Days
Week 1: 7:00am – 4:00pm (Fridays 7:00am - 3:00pm)
Week 2: 1:00pm – 10:00pm (Fridays 14:00 - 10:00pm)
Future Progression: Shift Operator Role, will be on full day/night shifts with a shift allowance
What You'll Be Doing
As part of your training, you will gain experience in:
Packing operations across Alcotex, LHA, Specialities and Tower areas
Alcotex bead operation
K9 and K10 operations
Supporting Tower operational checks when in operation
Supporting LHA and MAM tanker offloading activities
Maintaining production and batch documentation
Assisting with housekeeping, labelling and 5S activities
Providing support across both Harlow production plants as business needs require
You may also be required to provide additional operational support or cover for long-term absences within the production shift teams.
Safety, Health & Environment
Safety is our highest priority. You will be expected to:
Follow all Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) policies and procedures
Adhere to standard operating procedures and work instructions
Comply with COSHH assessments and safe working practices
Support continuous improvement initiatives relating to quality, safety and environmental performance
Report accidents, incidents and non-compliances promptly
Participate in root cause investigations where required
Wear appropriate PPE at all times
Maintain excellent housekeeping standards
What We're Looking For
Essential
Minimum of 2–3 years' experience working in a manufacturing, production or plant environment
GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths and English
Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Flexibility to work across different production areas and shift patterns
Strong commitment to safety and quality standards
Desire to develop into a Shift Operator role and build a long-term career within manufacturing
Desirable
FLT (Fork Lift Truck) licence
Experience within a chemical, process manufacturing or industrial production environment
What We Offer
Structured training programme across multiple plant operations
Hands-on experience with a variety of manufacturing processes
Opportunity to develop your technical and operational skills
Clear progression pathway into a permanent Shift Operator position
Supportive and experienced team environment
If you're looking for a role where you can learn, grow and develop a career in plant operations, we'd love to hear from you.
🌍 Global Benefits Overview
💰 Competitive, market-aligned compensation
🎯 Discretionary global bonus scheme
📈 Discretionary Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) – for senior positions
🚗 Company car or car allowance – varies by region and role
🩺 Healthcare – tailored to regional locations
👶 Parental leave and family support – maternity, paternity, adoption (aligned with regional policies)
🏡 Working options – flexibility where it matters, based on role and business needs
📚 Learning & development opportunities – training, online platforms, buddy/mentorship programs, Internal Synthomer University with L&D offers
💙 Wellbeing support – employee assistance program (EAP), mental health resources, wellbeing initiatives
🌱 Retirement / pension contributions – plans vary by country
🤝 Culture of Inclusion – where everyone can thrive
🏆 Performance culture, global reward & recognition programmes
Chemical Production Operator Trainee employer: Synthomer
At Synthomer in Harlow, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that prioritises safety, operational excellence, and employee development. Our collaborative work culture fosters continuous improvement and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a high-hazard manufacturing environment. With competitive compensation and a commitment to team success, we offer a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
