At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to support food production and packaging in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Kinnerton Confectionery, a leading UK manufacturer of character chocolate.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health cash plan, life insurance, and holiday purchase schemes.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, structured training, and great career growth opportunities await you!
- Why this job: Be part of a fun team making delicious treats while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 26915 - 30767 £ per year.
Overview
Production Operative (Multiple Vacancies Available) at Kinnerton Confectionery, Fakenham (Norfolk).
Key Benefits:
- Structured training plans to increase pay grade
- Wellbeing health cash plan benefits of up to £495 per annum
- Free life insurance (4x salary)
- Contributed pension
- Holiday purchase schemes
- Various salary sacrifice schemes (inclusive of cycle to work and electric car scheme)
We are excited to announce that we’ll be hosting a recruitment event, including a factory tour, with interviews taking place on Tuesday 2nd June or Wednesday 3rd June at either 08:45 or 10:45. If you’re unable to attend at those times, you are still encouraged to apply so we can arrange an alternative slot.
As a Production Operative at Kinnerton, you’ll play a key role in our manufacturing and packing processes, ensuring products are made to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
Position type: Full time, permanent
Shift Pattern: 4 on 4 off – Days or Nights available
Pay range: £12.86 - £14.70 per hour (£26,915.98 - £30,767.10 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 1 £12.86 per hour
- Grade 2 £13.19 per hour
- Grade 3 £13.59 per hour
4 on 4 off nights: covers 7 nights a week, 4 nights on and 4 nights off, 6pm -6am:
- Grade 1 £13.85 per hour
- Grade 2 £14.28 per hour
- Grade 3 £14.70 per hour
Closing date: Thursday 28th May 2026
Responsibilities
- Supporting the processing, assembly, and packaging of food products on the production line (packing, stacking, palletising, operating basic machinery, etc.) keeping pace with fast-moving lines.
- Ensuring that workstations and equipment are kept clean and compliant with health, safety, and food safety standards.
- Performing repetitive tasks, following strict guidelines to meet production specifications, and assisting with packaging, labelling, and stacking finished products for distribution.
Qualifications
- Previous experience working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment is advantageous.
- Training will be provided, including food safety and health & safety requirements.
- A basic understanding of food safety and health and safety will be advantageous.
- Strong work ethic with excellent attention to detail.
- Good communication skills and a team-focused attitude.
- A willingness to learn and grow within a fast-paced production environment.
Rewards Benefits
- 20 days of annual leave, increasing to 23.5 days with service.
- Pension & Life Assurance Scheme at x4 basic salary.
- Health Care Cash Plan via Paycare.
- Holiday Purchase Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
- Cycle to Work Salary Sacrifice Scheme (subject to meeting minimum criteria).
- Annual engagement calendar, charity and volunteering opportunities.
- Monthly employee recognition scheme via the ‘Zertus Values Awards’.
- Recruitment Refer a Friend rewards.
- Training and Development Opportunities.
About Us
Kinnerton is a leading UK confectionery manufacturer known for pioneering character chocolate and producing millions of seasonal treats each year.
Application & Interview Process
Kinnerton is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Interview Process
- A call with our Recruitment team.
- A 1-hour on-site interview with the Shift Manager.
- Includes a formal interview with structured questions.
- A factory tour to give you a real sense of the environment.
- PPE and safety shoes will be provided. Please note: no jewellery, piercings, nail varnish, false nails, or false eyelashes are permitted during the tour.
- We are a nut-free site.
Following your interview, we’ll contact you with feedback. If successful and you accept the offer, you’ll be invited to join the next available Wednesday induction session.
Production 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 Production 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 Production 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.
