Job Description

37.5hrs hours per week, (Monday to Friday, 06:00-14:00, 14:00 - 22:00 rotating)

We are seeking a suitably experienced and professional Production Operative to join as a key member of our dedicated Cutting Centre team.

To support the efficient operation of the Cutting Centre by undertaking a range of production activities operating cutting machinery and production equipment to process plastic sheet, rod, and tube materials accurately and safely, ensuring all products meet quality, safety, and customer specifications.

Key Responsibilities

1. Machine Operation

Operate and support the setup of plastic cutting equipment, which may include:

Panel and wall saws Vertical and horizontal band saws Beam saws CNC routers or CNC saws (if trained) Chop Saws
Tasks include:

Loading and securing sheets/blocks safely Selecting correct tooling/blades Adjusting settings, dimensions, and cutting parameters in line with cut plans. Monitoring cutting accuracy and machine condition

2. Material Handling & Preparation

Read cutting lists, job cards, and production orders. Identify material grades (acrylic, polycarbonate, HDPE, polypropylene, PVC, ABS, etc.). Check material thickness and tolerances before use. Safely move materials using manual handling techniques, lift-assist equipment, jib cranes, trolleys, or forklifts (if trained).

3. Quality Control

Confirm dimensions using tapes, vernier callipers, micrometers, squares, and gauges. Inspect edges, optical clarity (if applicable), and surface finish. Record measurements on job cards or digital systems. Reject or report defects in raw materials or finished parts.

4. Health & Safety (UK Workplace Standards)

Follow PUWER, COSHH, and site safety procedures. Use required PPE: gloves, safety eyewear, anti-static wear (where required), cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection. Ensure correct use of extraction, dust/fume control, and coolant systems. Maintain safe handling of sharp edges, hot edges, swarf, chips, and offcuts. Keep work area tidy and free from obstructions, operating clean as you go habit.

5. Workflow & Productivity

Maintain efficient throughput to meet production deadlines. Coordinate with colleagues for staging, packing, and dispatch. Keep accurate records: batch details, job completions, scrap levels. Support continuous improvement--lean, waste reduction, and 5S activities.

6. Maintenance & Housekeeping

Perform basic machine checks: blade condition, guides, coolant, and extraction. Clean machines and surrounding areas daily. Report faults immediately for maintenance intervention.

Skills & Experience Required

Essential

Experience in a workshop, manufacturing, plastic fabrication, woodworking or cutting environment. Comfort using production machinery. Ability to read measurements, cutting lists, and simple technical drawings. High attention to detail and commitment to safety.

Desirable

Background in plastics (sheet, rod, tube materials). CNC or laser cutting experience. Forklift truck licence (valid UK). Knowledge of tolerance control and batch production.

Personal Attributes

Reliable and punctual Team oriented Good communication Quality focused Positive and proactive attitude Able to work safely without constant supervision
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 13.45-14.22 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site gym On-site parking Profit sharing
Work Location: In person