Process operative

Process Operative (Extrusion & Milling)

Location: Lincoln
Salary: £14.46 - £15.10 per hour
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Hours: 4 on 4 off, 6am to 6am and 6pm to 6am

The Role Are you looking for a technical production role where you actually oversee the manufacturing process from start to finish? We are seeking a Process Operative to join a market-leading pet nutrition facility.

Reporting to the Shift Manager, you will be responsible for the "cook" process-milling, extruding, drying, and coating animal food. This is a vital role in the factory where you manage the machinery that transforms raw ingredients into high-quality finished products.

What You'll Be Doing * Milling & Grinding: Loading bulk ingredients via FLT and adding hand-ingredients for grinding.

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  Technical Machine Operation: Running the extruder, dryer, coater, and cooler systems.
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  Quality Control: Conducting vital technical checks and recording data to ensure the product meets safety standards "right first time."
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  Efficiency Management: Monitoring asset speeds to reduce waste and resolving minor issues to keep the line moving.
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  Hygiene & Safety: Maintaining a clean and controlled "clean as you go" environment and segregating waste for rework.
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  Team Collaboration: Working closely with Shift Engineers and QA teams to maintain peak performance.

What We're Looking For * Background: Experience in a manufacturing environment (Food, Pet Food, or FMCG is highly preferred).

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  Qualifications: Food Safety Level 2 and an awareness of BRC standards.
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  Safety Mindset: IOSH Working Safely is a major advantage. We pride ourselves on a "safety-first" culture.
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  Skills: You must be comfortable with technical recording and have a "can-do" attitude toward problem-solving.
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  Personal Attributes: We're looking for honest, empathetic team players who are open to change and willing to learn new processes.

Benefits

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Birthday day off
• Discounts at major supermarkets and retailers
• ShareSave scheme & enhanced pension contributions
• Death in service cover
• 24/7 virtual GP access
• Buy extra holiday if you need it
• Financial & legal support
• Free parking
• Employee referral scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Lincoln City FC ticket draws
• Long service awards
• Medical screening & care concierge

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies Privacy Notice.