What are a Production Operative's Job Responsibilities?

A production operative works on the production line, assembling, monitoring, and inspecting products. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and a focus on quality and safety.

Production Operative’s Key Tasks:

  • Operating production machinery and equipment
  • Assembling and packaging products
  • Ensuring products meet quality standards
  • Monitoring production processes and adjusting as needed
  • Keeping work areas clean and organised
  • Following health and safety procedures
  • Reporting any production issues or equipment malfunctions
  • Assisting with inventory control and stock management
What are a Production Operative's Job Responsibilities?
Production Operative Essential Skills

While no formal qualifications are typically required, employers value skills like:

  • Strong attention to detail and quality control
  • Ability to work efficiently and meet production targets
  • Basic understanding of machinery operation
  • Teamwork and communication skills
  • Physical stamina for standing, lifting, and manual labour
  • Problem-solving ability for troubleshooting minor production issues
Production Operative Essential Skills
Production Operative Typical Work Environment

Production operatives work in factories, manufacturing plants, and production lines. These roles often require working with machinery, in a team, and in environments that could involve noise, heat, or cold. Shifts can vary, with some employers offering day, evening, and night shifts.

Production Operative Typical Work Environment
Production Operative Career Progression

Many production operatives move up to supervisory roles or become machine operators, quality control specialists, or production managers with more experience. Further training and certifications can lead to advancement in areas like health and safety or machine maintenance.

Production Operative Career Progression
Production Operative Job Vacancies in Essex and Suffolk
We frequently recruit for production operative roles across Essex and Suffolk. Whether you’re experienced or just starting, we have positions available that offer opportunities for career growth.
Permanent Production Operative

Job Title: Production Operative Location: Braintree Salary: £35,000 per annum Contract: Permanent Hours: Monday - Thursday 7.15am -5.15pm, Friday 07.15am - 15.15pm

£35,000 - £35,100 p/a
Braintree, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: ACABW_1780583290 View
Temporary Cleaning Operative

Cleaning Operative - Temp Location: BraintreePay: £13.50. per hourHours: Monday to Friday 9-3

£13.50 p/h
Braintree, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: ACHAB_1780577486 View
Permanent Warehouse Manager

Prime Appointments are recruiting for an experienced and hands-on Warehouse Manager to join a busy and growing food manufacturing company based in Witham, Essex.

£36,000 - £40,000 p/a
Witham, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: SK/HQ048_1780572081 View
Permanent Forklift Driver

Prime Appointments are recruiting for a Forklift Driver to join a busy and growing FMCG company based in Witham, Essex.

£28,500 p/a
Witham, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: SK/HQ047_1780571324 View
Permanent Estimator

Estimator role in Braintree for specialist steelwork: read drawings, run take-offs and price from first principles without software on bespoke projects with real ownership.

£30,000 - £40,000 p/a
Braintree, Essex
Depending on experience
Engineering
On-site
Job ref: 96363_1780570729 View
Temporary Bookkeeper

Temporary Bookkeeper required in Chelmsford for 2-3 months cover. Full-time, office-based, Sage 50 experience essential, sole charge role handling all accounts duties.

£15.00 - £18.00 p/h
Chelmsford, Essex
Accountancy & Finance
On-site
Job ref: 96635_1780569421 View
Permanent Senior Recruitment Consultant

Take ownership of an established recruitment division with over 30 years of market presence, existing client relationships and the opportunity to drive its future growth.

£34,000 - £36,000 p/a
Witham, Essex
uncapped commission
Office & Administration
On-site
Job ref: RHOFFICEFINSENREC_1780566548 View
Temporary Draughtsperson

Are you an experienced Draughtsperson looking for a new role? Look no further and apply today to learn more about this exciting opportunity, £19.23 p/h.

£18.00 - £19.23 p/h
Harwich, Essex
Engineering
On-site
Job ref: 96581_1780563883 View
FAQs About Production Operative Jobs
What skills and experience do I need?

No formal qualifications are required for entry-level production operative roles, but experience in manufacturing or a fast-paced environment is beneficial. Employers look for attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety procedures.

How much does a production operative earn in Essex and Suffolk?

Hourly pay typically ranges from £12.21 to £12.50 per hour, depending on experience and shift patterns. Overtime and night shifts may offer higher pay rates.

What are the working hours for a production operative?

Production operative shifts can vary, including early morning, evening, and weekend shifts. Some roles are on rotating shifts, while others follow regular working hours.

Is production operative work physically demanding?

Yes, this role involves standing for long periods, lifting and handling materials, and sometimes working in noisy or hot environments. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a team are important.

Do I need any qualifications for a production operative role?

No formal qualifications are usually required. However, employers often look for previous experience in manufacturing, production, or warehouse environments.

What are the safety requirements for production operatives?

Production operatives must follow strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear, adhering to machinery guidelines, and following manual handling techniques. Employers provide necessary safety training.

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