Packhouse - Jobs.

Our growing business has been all about British apples and pears since 1947.

From father to son, every day for over 75 years, our family business is growing. We innovate and change but our values always stay the same. We’re a team who pride ourselves on the Goatham’s way, passionate about growing the very best quality British apples and pears.

An opportunity has arisen for an In-House Machine Operator and Machine Setter Trainer. The role is integral to the development of our team, focusing on training and continuous skill improvement of staff operating and setting advanced machinery. This position will play a pivotal role towards improving productivity and ensuring operational excellence across all AC Goatham packhouses.

Responsibilities may include:

1.Training and Development:

Deliver, and manage training programs for machine operators and setters on the following equipment:

• MAF RODA: In-feed robots, in-feed - flow wrapping lines, crates de-stacking machines, palletiser, and strapping machine.
• ULMA: Atlanta and Sienna flow packing machines.
• EGATEC: Automated case packers.

Provide tailored training for new hires, as well as continuous professional development for existing staff.

Help with creating training materials, including manuals, checklists, and step-by-step guides, aligned with operational needs.

Evaluate operator performance and implement refresher training sessions as required.

2. Operation:

Collaborate with the Maintenance team and machine suppliers to gain an in-depth understanding of equipment capabilities and upgrades.

Support troubleshooting and provide advanced training for operators on resolving technical issues.

Work closely with the Production and Maintenance teams to identify productivity bottlenecks and propose solutions.

Ensure machinery is operated safely, efficiently, and in compliance with operational standards.

3. Compliance and Safety:

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and certifications in the areas listed below. However, full training will be provided if required.

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).
• Food Hygiene and Food Safety Level 2 or above.
• Health and Safety (IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent).
• Manual Handling, Machinery Safety, Machinery Safety, Machinery Safety and First Aid at Work.

4. Future Development:

Foster a culture of learning and professional growth within the team.

Identify high-potential employees for advanced training and leadership development opportunities.

Collaborate with external training providers and machine suppliers to incorporate the latest technological advancements into training programs.

Our perfect In-House Machine Operator and Machine Setter Trainer would have:

Extensive experience operating and setting machinery in a high-paced production or packhouse environment.

Expertise in training machine operators and setters, with the ability to simplify complex concepts.

Strong understanding of BRC Global Standards.

Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Ability to collaborate effectively with all teams, including Maintenance and external suppliers.

Proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.

What else we can offer you:

28 days holiday including bank holidays (with an opportunity to earn more holiday based on your length of service)

Pension scheme

Fortnightly pay

Learning and development opportunities

Discretionary Christmas bonus

Free onsite parking

Access to free Wi-Fi

Free fresh fruit!

Working hours 7am-5pm, Monday-Friday with potential OT after 40h

Our growing business has been all about British apples and pears since 1947.

From father to son, every day for over 75 years, our family business is growing. We innovate and change but our values always stay the same. We’re a team who pride ourselves on the Goatham’s way, passionate about growing the very best quality British apples and pears.

About the Role

The Pre-Sizer Line Leader is responsible for managing the daily operations of a production pre-size line, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality throughout the manufacturing process. As a vital part of the production team, you will supervise packing operatives, coordinate with other departments, set up machines, and manage the schedule in line with the production plan. You will also contribute to achieving production targets, maintaining equipment functionality, and promoting a safe work environment.

Working Days: 5 days per week on rotation – this role requires flexibility in working days and hours.

Shifts:

06:00–16:00

14:00–00:00

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and monitor a team of production operatives to ensure optimal performance.

• Execute daily tasks based on the production plan.

• Train and support team members to enhance their skills and efficiency.

• Set up and adjust pre-sizer equipment to align with product specifications.

• Achieve production targets, ensuring timely output and adherence to quality standards.

• Monitor production processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions.

• Adapt processes to meet shifting production demands.

• Collaborate with other production teams to ensure the smooth flow of raw materials and pre-sized bins.

• Conduct regular inspections of fruit and equipment to maintain compliance with quality standards.

• Address quality issues promptly and implement corrective measures.

• Maintain accurate quality documentation.

• Update sorting parameters in MAF’s GlobalScan 7 and Orphea systems to meet customer requirements.

• Enforce adherence to safety procedures and regulations on the production floor.

• Conduct regular safety checks and address potential hazards swiftly.

• Train staff in safety protocols and emergency procedures.

• Promote a culture of safety within the team.

• Ensure compliance with food safety standards.

• Monitor equipment performance and collaborate with maintenance teams to resolve mechanical issues.

• Troubleshoot production problems to minimize downtime.

• Maintain and clean machinery to prevent malfunctions.

• Liaise with external suppliers, such as MAF Roda, for technical support.

• Identify opportunities to optimize machine performance through settings adjustments.

• Maintain accurate records of production activities, including output, downtime, material usage, and quality issues.

• Report progress and concerns to the Production Managers.

• Provide regular feedback on production performance and propose efficiency improvements.

• Create detailed production reports.

Qualifications & Skills

• Previous experience in a production environment, ideally in a QC or leadership role.

• Experience with pre-sizing or sorting using MAF Roda systems is highly desirable.

• Familiarity with stock control systems is advantageous.

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Effective problem-solving and analytical thinking.

• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

• Time management and task prioritization skills.

• Familiarity with production equipment and machinery.

• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and moving materials.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with varying demands.

• Capable of working in different environmental conditions (e.g., cold, noise).

• Exposure to machinery, assembly lines, and potential safety hazards on the production floor.

• Strict adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and safety protocols.

• Flexibility to assist in other areas of the packhouse as needed.

What else we can offer you:

• 28 days holiday including bank holidays (with an opportunity to earn more holiday based on your length of service)
• Competitive salary
• Pension scheme
• Fortnightly pay
• Learning and development opportunities
• Discretionary Christmas bonus
• Free onsite parking
• Access to free Wi-Fi
• Free fresh fruit!

Job Type: Full-time