We’re looking for a proactive and hands‑on Lead Operator to join our team at Palethorpes Bakery. This is a key role on the factory floor where you’ll not only operate machinery but also support the Group Leader in driving efficiency, safety, and quality standards.
You’ll act as a role model for the team—leading by example, supporting colleagues, and ensuring production runs smoothly and effectively.
Job Details
Job title: Lead Operator
Location: Palethorpe’s Bakery, Market Drayton, TF9 3AL
Salary: £17.19 per hour
Shift Pattern: 4on 4off 17:00 – 05:00
What You’ll Be Doing
- Work in line with all Health & Safety standards and procedures
- Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards
- Monitor and manage Critical Control Points (CCPs)
- Check that procedures and paperwork are completed accurately
- Promote high standards of CAYG (Clean As You Go) and GMP
- Carry out regular verification checks and sign off documentation
- Support the Group Leader with staff rotation, breaks, and changeovers
- Ensure all team members are trained on relevant Safe Systems of Work (SSOWs)
- Train and guide new starters and team members
- Step in to provide day‑to‑day supervision when required
- Create a positive team environment where people feel supported and confident to ask questions
- Run the production line efficiently, ensuring correct staffing and materials
- Monitor and report on line performance and efficiency
- Set up and operate machinery, ensuring fast and accurate changeovers
- Use your technical knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve issues
- Identify and support continuous improvement initiatives
- Liaise with engineers and leadership on equipment issues
- Maintain control of materials and resources within your area
- Work flexibly across different roles as needed
What We’re Looking For
- Leadership: Able to lead by example and inspire your team to perform at their best.
- Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of machinery and processes, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
- Attention to Detail: High standards in housekeeping, safety, and documentation.
- Team Player: Motivated, enthusiastic, and committed to fostering a collaborative environment.
- Flexibility: Adaptable to the demands of a fast‑paced factory environment.
Benefits
- Heavy discounted staff shop
- 24 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- 2 Employee Volunteering Days per year
- Employee well‑being and community support groups
- Informal and Formal training opportunities with personalised online LMS platform
- Charity Initiatives and Team events
- 24/7 Access to Grocery Aid (Free Financial, Emotional and Practical Support)
- Physical Wellbeing Benefits – Free on demand exercise hub and various gym discounts.
- Free Financial wellbeing – mortgage calculators, budget tools, financial aid tools
- Holiday Discounts via Online Retail Discount
Recruitment & Equality
We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer and are committed to Fairness, Equity, Inclusivity, and Respect. If you need a reasonable adjustment at any stage of our recruitment process, just let us know, we’ll support you — confidentially and with care.
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