At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and maintain chocolate processing machinery while ensuring quality control.
- Company: Join Kinnerton Confectionery, a leading name in the sweet treats industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health cash plans, life insurance, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment producing iconic confectionery products.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just a passion for mechanics and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 28634 - 34977 £ per year.
Overview
Kinnerton Confectionery has multiple permanent job opportunities within our production team. In these roles, you will be trained to set up, operate and monitor a range of food processing and packing machinery. If you have prior factory experience, that’s a bonus, but if not, an interest in mechanics and how things work could be suitable for these roles as well.
Position type: Full time, permanent
Shift Pattern: 4 on 4 off – Days or Nights available
Pay range: £13.59 - £16.60 per hour (£28,634.67 - £34,976.86 annually). Your starting pay grade is allocated depending on skillset.
- 4 on 4 off days: covers 7 days a week, 4 days on and 4 days off, 6am-6pm:
- Grade 3 £13.59 per hour
- Grade 4 £13.99 per hour
- Grade 5 £14.49 per hour
- Grade 6 £14.99 per hour
- 4 on 4 off nights: covers 7 nights a week, 4 nights on and 4 nights off, 6pm -6am:
- Grade 3 £14.70 per hour
- Grade 4 £15.13 per hour
- Grade 5 £15.72 per hour
- Grade 6 £16.60 per hour
Responsibilities
- Set up, operate, and maintain Kinnerton's chocolate processing and packing machinery.
- Conduct quality checks and accurately complete documentation.
- Support with packing products by working on the packing lines as and when required.
- Ensure excellent plant standards are maintained, adopting our 'clean as you go' policy.
- Complete all required training such as Food Safety, Health & Safety, Allergen Awareness, Physical Hazards Awareness and Pest Control.
Qualifications
- Ability to operate, monitor, and adjust machinery to maintain production efficiency.
- Understanding of health and safety regulations and adherence to hygiene standards.
- Strong attention to detail to ensure quality control and minimise waste.
- Good problem-solving skills.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and production schedules.
- Basic computer literacy for data entry and machine monitoring.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently when required.
- Good communication skills to report issues and collaborate with Production Operatives, Team Leaders, Management and other departments.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
- Previous experience in a manufacturing environment is beneficial.
Rewards Benefits
- Pension – 4% employer plus Life Assurance at 4 times salary.
- 20 days of annual leave, increasing to 23.5 days with service.
- Paycare Health Care Cash Plan – annual allowance for your dental, optical, chiropractic, counselling and much more!
- Salary sacrifice schemes, including cycle to work and electric car schemes. (subject to criteria).
About Us
Our Fakenham site operates across three key production areas - Novelty, Nut, and Moulding, each led by a Plant Manager and supported by dedicated Shift Managers working on a 4 on 4 off pattern across days and nights. The site is a 11,000m² facility producing over 8,500 tonnes of confectionery annually, including NOMO – the UK’s #1 free-from chocolate brand. With advanced technology and a nut-safe promise, we supply major retailers and co-manufacture for some of the world’s biggest confectionery brands. Every year, we produce over 5 million advent calendars and 30 million Easter eggs – making this a fast-paced, innovative environment where no two days are the same.
Application & Interview Process
Please apply online via our careers portal: create your account, upload your CV, and answer all requested questions. You will then be contacted by our Talent Acquisition team to discuss your application and assess suitability. If you are successful after this stage, you will be invited to attend an on-site interview and factory tour with one of our experienced Shift Managers. Kinnerton Confectionery is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Please let us know if you require any special arrangements or adjustments to be made for your interview by speaking with the Talent Acquisition team at application stage.
Process Operative employer: Zertus UK & Ireland
Zertus UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises innovation and sustainability in the confectionery industry. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development, including training and qualifications, alongside competitive benefits such as hybrid working, an annual bonus plan, and a comprehensive healthcare cash plan. Located in Fakenham, our team enjoys a collaborative environment where creativity thrives, making it an ideal place for those looking to build a meaningful career in procurement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Operative
✨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 Zertus UK & Ireland, 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 Process Operative
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 Zertus UK & Ireland 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 Zertus UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Zertus UK & Ireland, 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 Zertus UK & Ireland 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.
