Senior Production Operative - Earlies or Lates

Puratos Group; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food ingredient company in Buckingham is seeking an experienced Senior Production Operative to lead a new team in their operations. The role involves overseeing production line efficiency, maintaining quality controls, and mentoring team members. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership and a customer-focused mindset. This position offers competitive compensation along with several benefits that promote well-being and professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Annual Bonus Scheme

Generous Pension Plan

Private Medical Insurance

Up to 5 Weeks Annual Leave

Enhanced Company Sick Pay

Structured Learning & Development Programs

Wellbeing Initiatives

Life Assurance

Income Protection

Loyal Service Awards

Employee Assistance Program

Refer a Friend Scheme

High Street Discounts

Monthly ‘Magic Star’ Awards

Cycle to Work Scheme

Responsibilities

• Lead the line by following production plans and meeting output targets.
• Prepare batches by following SOPs and collaborating with teams.
• Check and prepare raw materials for production.
• Complete quality checks and maintain traceability records.
• Coordinate the supply of materials and equipment for production.
• Work closely with operators and managers to resolve issues.
• Train and guide new team members.
• Act as the first line of technical support on the floor.
• Participate in Daily Operations Reviews to improve efficiency.
• Represent the team during audits and visits.

Skills

Customer Focus

Team Collaboration

Clear Communication

Continuous Improvement

Performance Driven

Job description

Job Detail

Senior Production Operative - Earlies or Lates

Location: GBR - Buckingham, United Kingdom

Working time: Full Time, Permanent

Req ID: 34577

Overview

Senior Production Operator, you’ll play a key leadership role in the launch of our expanded Buckingham site—helping to build, guide, and inspire a brand-new team from the ground up. You’ll be more than just an expert in our production processes; you’ll support the Team Leader and Trainer, stepping up to lead when needed and ensuring smooth, efficient operations across the floor.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of our operations, share your expertise, and grow your leadership skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. If you’re passionate about teamwork, continuous improvement, and making a real impact—this is your moment.

What you will do

• Lead the Line with Confidence - Follow daily production plans to meet output targets, ensuring every batch is delivered right-first time with precision and care.
• Be a Batch-Making Expert - Prepare batches by following SOPs and process instructions, collaborating with QA and R&D teams to ensure top-quality results.
• Own Raw Material Readiness - Check and prepare all raw materials before production starts, ensuring safe handling and full allergen control at every step.
• Champion Quality and Traceability - Complete all quality checks, CCPs, and traceability records—keeping our standards high and our products safe.
• Keep Production Flowing Smoothly - Coordinate the supply of materials and equipment to keep production running efficiently and without delays.
• Collaborate Across Teams - Work closely with Machine Operators, Shift Managers, and R&D to align production and packing, support trials, and resolve issues quickly.
• Support and Mentor Others - Help train and guide new team members, sharing your knowledge and setting the standard for excellence.
• Be the First Line of Technical Support - Act as the go-to person for technical issues on the floor—solving problems or escalating them to the right teams.
• Drive Continuous Improvement - Participate in Daily Operations Reviews (DOR), share insights, and help shape smarter, more efficient ways of working.
• Support Audits and High-Profile Visits - Represent the team with pride during audits and visits, ensuring our site always looks and performs at its best.

What we expect from you

At Puratos, we believe in more than just skills—we value the mindset and behaviours that drive success. Here’s what we expect from you:

• Customer Focus - You’re curious about what people need—whether they’re colleagues or customers—and you act with care and efficiency to make their lives easier. You champion a customer-first mindset in everything you do.
• Team Collaboration – You work with others in a spirit of trust and respect. You’re open to new ideas, build strong relationships, and aim for shared success—because we’re better together.
• Clear Communication - You tailor your message to your audience, whether it’s face-to-face, in writing, or on the shop floor. You make sure everyone’s on the same page.
• Continuous Improvement - You take pride in high standards and are always looking for ways to do things better. You embrace feedback, adapt to change, and never stop learning.
• Performance Driven - You’re ambitious, accountable, and resilient. You plan smart, use resources wisely, and stay focused—even when things don’t go to plan.

What you can expect from Puratos

We are a warm family company with a historical growth track record and a clear long-term vision for the future. We promote a caring, trustful and respecting work environment by putting people first. We cultivate an inclusive global workplace that fully embraces diversity and equal opportunities for all. We strive to reflect the richness of our customers, communities and society, accelerating our ability to innovate and deliver on our commitments.

The benefits with this role include:

• Competitive Salary – Reviewed annually to ensure we stay ahead of the market.
• Annual Bonus Scheme – 5% standard, with stretch potential up to 10%.
• Generous Pension Plan – Up to 7.5% employer contributions to support your future.
• Private Medical Insurance – BUPA single cover fully paid, with options to add family members.
• Up to 5 Weeks Annual Leave – Plus the flexibility to buy or sell additional days.
• Enhanced Company Sick Pay – Because your health matters.
• Learning & Development – Structured programs with a target of 5 learning days per year.
• Wellbeing Matters – Access to our wellbeing initiatives.
• Life Assurance – 2x your salary plus a 20% spouse pension.
• Income Protection – Financial support when you need it most.
• Loyal Service Awards – Celebrating your milestones with us.
• Employee Assistance Program – Confidential support for life’s challenges.
• Refer a Friend Scheme – Earn £500 for successful referrals.
• High Street Discounts – Save with Perkbox perks.
• Monthly ‘Magic Star’ Awards – Win £50 in vouchers for going above and beyond.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay healthy.

Important Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

If you’re excited about helping others grow and want to be part of something magical, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help us shape the future at Puratos.