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- Tasks: Operate machinery, ensure quality, and maintain hygiene standards in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a leading food manufacturing company committed to quality and safety.
- Benefits: Full-time hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for training and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values innovation and continuous improvement in food production.
- Qualifications: Experience in food manufacturing and knowledge of food safety standards preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with a focus on teamwork and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Contract type & hours: Permanent, Full-time 07.30-15:30
Role Purpose: To ensure customers are supplied with goods on time, maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and assist in smooth running of all departments. This role supports the manufacturing process by operating machinery, monitoring quality, and maintaining hygiene standards to deliver consistent product output and protect brand reputation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate production machinery and equipment to meet daily output targets while maintaining zero safety incidents.
- Driving of FLT for picking/packing, unloading of lorries.
- Order processing or orders onto ERP system.
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and food safety protocols (HACCP, allergen control, hygiene) to ensure 100% compliance.
- Conduct quality checks (weight, temperature, visual inspection) at defined intervals; elevate deviations immediately to maintain customer and regulatory standards.
- Maintain accurate production records (batch numbers, downtime, waste) in ERP or manual logs; ensure traceability compliance for audits.
- Perform cleaning and hygiene tasks (CIP, workstation sanitisation) to meet BRC/IFS standards and prevent contamination.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives (reduce waste, improve line efficiency); contribute ideas and implement agreed changes.
- Manage raw material usage to minimise waste and maintain stock integrity; report shortages promptly.
- Adhere to Health & Safety requirements (PPE, manual handling, machine guarding); report hazards and near misses within 24 hours.
- Collaborate with team leaders and QA to resolve production issues quickly; maintain positive communication across shifts.
- Attend and contribute to required meetings: daily production huddles, quality briefings, and safety talks.
- Participate in training for food safety, allergen awareness, and machinery operation; maintain 100% training compliance.
- Contribute to DEI, sustainability, and wellbeing initiatives, including waste reduction and safe working practices.
Experience: Experience in food manufacturing or FMCG production environment, delivering consistent output and quality. Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, allergen control, hygiene) and ability to follow SOPs.
Skills: Attention to detail, teamwork, problem-solving, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Compliance awareness: Health & Safety, Food Safety Regulations, allergen handling, and hygiene protocols. Physical capability: able to stand for long periods, lift moderate weights, and work in chilled or ambient environments. Communication: clear verbal skills for reporting issues and following instructions. Flexibility of shift change (occasionally) to support operation needs. Familiarity with ERP systems for production reporting. Knowledge of BRC audit requirements. Basic understanding of continuous improvement tools (5S, Kaizen). Food hygiene certification (Level 2 or above).
Behaviours & Our Core Values:
- Integrity and Respect in Action — acts fairly, is honest, and creates an inclusive environment.
- Ownership and Responsibility — takes accountability, learns from feedback, follows through.
- Going Beyond, Every Time — goes the extra mile for colleagues and customers; raises the bar.
- Innovation with Purpose — tests practical ideas, measures impact, scales what works.
- Champions of Change — communicates clearly, brings people with them through change.
- Passionate Pursuit of Success — outcome-focused, balances pace with quality.
Must attend: team huddles (daily), 1:1 with line manager [monthly], functional ops review [monthly], H&S/Toolbox talks [per rota], H&S Meetings (as required), training/refresher sessions [per schedule].
Preparation: circulate updates 24h prior; bring data/KPIs; record actions and follow through. Work safely and follow training, method statements, SSOW and risk assessments at all times. Report hazards, near-misses and incidents immediately; support investigations (incl. RIDDOR where applicable). Use, maintain and store PPE correctly; keep work area safe and tidy. Complete all mandatory H&S training and refreshers on time. Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings and H&S Committee activity as required.
Food Safety Requirements: To carry out all employee obligations with the Food Safety Act 1990 and all other subsequent legislation relating to Food Safety, including full compliance with Zeelandia food safety policies and internal procedures. Where necessary, liaise with the Technical Manager/Quality Manager regarding food safety, quality or legality issues and report any issues to the site Technical / Quality Manager. Ensure a high level of hygiene standard is consistently achieved and good practices are maintained throughout your area of the business with continuous improvements made, where applicable. Support activities to maintain BRC Certification for the site. Identify training requirements and implement/organise/ undertake training. Report Food Safety incidences immediately.
General Operative in Colchester employer: Zeelandia UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
Zeelandia UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Operative in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on their values and how they operate. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills match the job description, especially around teamwork and problem-solving.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your experience! Think of specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to follow SOPs, maintain hygiene standards, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a couple of thoughtful questions prepared. This shows your interest in the role and helps you figure out if the company is the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace General Operative in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in food manufacturing or FMCG. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since this role involves adhering to food safety standards and health regulations, it’s a good idea to mention any certifications you have, like Level 2 Food Hygiene. We love candidates who understand the importance of compliance!
Highlight Teamwork and Communication Skills: This position requires strong collaboration with team leaders and colleagues. Share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team and communicated clearly in past roles. We value those who can keep the lines of communication open!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zeelandia UK Ltd
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description. Familiarise yourself with key responsibilities like operating machinery, following SOPs, and maintaining hygiene standards. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in food manufacturing or FMCG environments. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully met output targets, conducted quality checks, or adhered to safety protocols. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the position.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions about teamwork, problem-solving, and how you handle fast-paced environments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This approach will help you provide clear and concise responses that showcase your skills and behaviours aligned with the company's values.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, continuous improvement initiatives, or training opportunities. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
