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PRODUCTION OPERATIVE

Job Description

Probe Technical are looking to recruit a full time and permanent Production Operative to join a very busy manufacturing facility.  This is an excellent time to join due to business growth, with opportunities for career progression. 

The role will involve working as part of a team, requiring excellent communication and willing to take part in problem solving and continuous improvement exercises. Flexibility with a willingness to learn and embrace new skills will also form a fundamental requirement of the role.

You must be flexible to work 12-hour shifts, covering days and nights. 

The package details for the role of Production Operative:

  • Salary £34,500 (inc shift allowance) 
  • Mix of 12-hour day and nights 4 on 3 off. 
  • Company pension matched (will be disclosed at interview)
  • Enhanced Holiday 23 + 8 – Holiday increases with service 
  • Life Assurance 
  • Discretionary company bonus (% discussed at interview) 

Some duties for the Production Operative role include: 

  • Ensure all equipment is in a safe and serviceable condition.
  • Enforce and promote safety and housekeeping in your area of work.
  • To report safety and hazard faults.
  • Adhere to all health, safety, environmental, and quality regulations during product manufacturing.
  • Document process activities completely and promptly.
  • Oversee the operational state of equipment during production.
  • Notify supervisors when raw materials are required or finished products are ready for transfer to the warehouse.

The role of Production Operative is commutable from Derby, Burton on Trent, Swadlincote and Ashby-de-la-Zouch. 

Please Note: Candidates must have the right to live and work in the UK.

Our aim is to help you secure the best possible future for yourself & this is a totally FREE service to all our Candidates.

If you believe that your skills and experience match what we are looking for please call me or APPLY and I will be in touch.

Should you want to learn more about any of our MANUFACTURING & PRODUCTION vacancies, or should you just want to discuss your particular needs, then please do not hesitate to contact me to have an informal, confidential chat.

Probe Technical Recruitment, providing Manufacturing & Production Recruitment Support since 1994

SIMILAR JOBS

 

This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic and strategic Head of Operations to join a European leading business, where making a difference to people’s lives through the products that they design, manufacture and install is a daily occurrence. With 40 years’ experience under their belt, they are a leading provider in the UK, a market leader in Europe and have a presence in many other countries worldwide. They continue to expand rapidly in the UK and internationally, a business that has doubled in size these last few years.

They are proud of their fast-paced and dynamic manufacturing environment, where customer satisfaction and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything that they do.

Head of Operations, Salary, Hours and Benefits

  • £80,000 - £90,000+
  • Car allowance
  • Management Bonus Scheme
  • 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 3:00pm (with some flexibility)
  • 23 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Life insurance cover
  • Employee Assistance Programme

Essential Requirements

  • Proven Head of Operations / Operations Director experience within Manufacturing.
  • Experience of working for a business circa 50 million+ turnover.
  • An Engineering background, someone who has risen through a business.
  • Very much hands-on, but also strategic.
  • A business qualification would be advantageous. 
  • Deep understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Commercially astute with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems.

Head of Operations Key Responsibilities

  • The Head of Operations will provide strong, strategic leadership across operational functions to drive high performance and collaboration.
  • Championing a proactive Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality culture.
  • Maintaining profitability during rapid business expansion.
  • Using data-driven KPIs and metrics to guide planning and decision-making.
  • Driving Lean Manufacturing and operational efficiency - championing a zero-defect mindset to improve overall quality standards.
  • Leading and developing the Engineering function.
  • Managing growth across international operations.
  • Implementing effective production workflows to boost productivity and minimise waste.
  • Taking ownership of the post-sales process to enhance cross-team collaboration and service delivery.
  • Identifying cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality - embedding a culture of continuous improvement across all teams.
 

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Toolmaker to join an established, world renown iconic British manufacturer, a trusted name in quality, innovation, and tradition. 

As an employer, it blends deep-rooted values with forward-thinking design and engineering — offering a workplace where craftsmanship, creativity, and pride in product truly matter. 

Employees become part of a legacy that continues to shape the industry. For those who want to work with purpose, in a business respected worldwide for its authenticity and excellence, this is more than a job — it’s a place to grow, contribute, and be proud of what you help build.


Toolmaker Salary, Hours and Benefits

  • £45,000 dependant on experience
  • 39 hours per week on rotating shifts
     - Week 1: Monday to Thursday 6.00am – 2.00pm, Friday 6.00 – 1.00pm
     - Week 2: Monday to Thursday 2.00pm – 10.00pm, Friday 1.00pm – 8.00pm
  • 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
  • Company performance bonus
  • Life Assurance
  • Company Sick Pay
  • Company discounts
  • Free on-site parking


Commutable From: Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, Burton upon Trent, Newark

Role Function 

The Toolmaker will be a responsible for the manufacture, maintenance and continuous improvement of production press tooling, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and special purpose machinery.

Toolmaker Candidate Requirements

  • Time-served apprentice and NVQ or equivalent in Tool making or Machining
  • Strong background in precision engineering and toolroom operations
  • Skilled in operating Toolroom machinery (lathes, mills, grinders etc)
  • Experience with press tooling, fault diagnosis and tool repair
  • Ability to read technical drawings
  • CNC experience
  • Ability to produce jigs & fixtures
  • TIG welding experience desirable or willing to learn


Toolmaker Responsibilities

  • Manufacture and modify tooling, jigs, fixtures, and special-purpose machinery
  • Interpret and work from engineering drawings to determine the best manufacturing methods
  • Operate a full range of Toolroom machinery (milling, turning, grinding, CNC etc)
  • Assemble and disassemble press tools, check tolerances and ensure functional performance
  • Diagnose faults and carry out effective repairs


Onsite Capabilities

  • The Toolroom gives full control over the servicing and quality of company tooling. Equipped with an impressive range of machinery – HURCO 3 Axis CNC Miller, lathes, pillar drills, Lumsden and surface grinders – they can manufacture complex parts and maintain critical press tooling without relying on external suppliers.
  • In addition to maintaining existing tooling, the Toolroom team also designs and manufactures bespoke tools, jigs, and fixtures, ensuring precision and reliability in every part of production.
 

This is a great opportunity for an experienced Manual Machinist to join an existing team in their new facility.

The company offer a full Manual Machining Service for products, across Manufacturing, Fabrication and General Engineering.

To be considered for this role, you will be Apprentice Trained, with proven manual machining experience on both Lathes and Milling machines.  

Manual Machinist Role Benefits:

  • £36,400 - £40,560 dependant on experience (£17.50 - £19.50 per hour)
  • Paid overtime
  • Day time shift, 7am – 4pm, Friday’s 8:30am – 3pm (40 hours per week)
  • No tools required

This Manual Machinist position is commutable from: Derby, Burton, Nottingham, Ripley, Ashbourne, Matlock, Castle Donington and surrounding areas. 

Manual Machinist Candidate Requirements

  • Apprentice trained
  • It is essential that you have proven experience of setting and operating manual lathes and milling machines
  • Competency in milling, grinding, drilling and lathe work is all essential along with working to tight tolerances
  • Experience with sleeving, bushing housings, and stubbing shafts required
  • A good attitude to work
  • Driving Licence
  • No training provided, you must have the above skill set and ability to hit the ground running

Manual Machinist Duties

  • You will be required to operate Manual lathes and Milling machines and carry out repairs on various mechanical components from customers. 
  • You need to be capable of working to drawings and samples and generate drawings on occasions with the ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team. 
  • 50% of the work is working from drawings and 50% repair and breakdowns, where working of your own initiative is essential
  • Occasional customer site visits, to discuss future projects and urgent work. Possibly sketch the job if required – transport will be provided.
 

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading business who are in a period of exciting growth. They are a leading provider in the UK, a market leader in Europe and have a presence in many other countries worldwide. They continue to expand rapidly in the UK and internationally, a business that has doubled in size these last few years.

They are proud of their fast-paced and dynamic manufacturing environment, where customer satisfaction and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything that they do.


Planning Coordinator Pay, Hours and Benefits

  • £25,000 - £26,000 (possibly negotiable)
  • 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • 23 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Life insurance cover
  • Employee Assistance Programme


The Planning Coordinator role is commutable from the following areas: Derby, Nottingham, Sutton in Ashfield, Mansfield, Chesterfield.


Planning Coordinator Role Overview

If you are looking for a job where you can genuinely go home at the end of the day saying that you’ve made a positive difference to someone’s life, then this is the role for you! This is a role with a family-owned business who are expanding in the UK and internationally. Customer Care / the Customer Experience is key to this role - you will have the opportunity to see customers through the whole process to a successful outcome.


Planning Coordinator Candidate Requirements

  • A planning professional with excellent customer service and great organisational skills
  • Self-management with a ‘can do’ attitude
  • Excellent telephone manner
  • A genuine passion for helping people
  • Confidence using Microsoft Excel, Word, internet & email
  • Accuracy and attention to detail
  • Logical approach
  • Able to work to agreed process & procedures to meet and excel customer expectations


Planning Coordinator Key Responsibilities

  • Liaising with installation partners and customers to arrange installation of products
  • Planning and organising installations using our business system
  • Completing all documentation with the highest levels of accuracy and providing this to the relevant parties
  • Dealing with queries relating to installation and finding solutions
  • Dispatch and track products and update stakeholders of any issues
  • Maximising opportunities for installations
  • Ensuring all documentation is received following installations and actioned
     
 

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading business who are in a period of exciting growth. They are a leading provider in the UK, a market leader in Europe and have a presence in many other countries worldwide. They continue to expand rapidly in the UK and internationally, a business that has doubled in size these last few years.

They are proud of their fast-paced and dynamic manufacturing environment, where customer satisfaction and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything that they do.


Manufacturing Supervisor Pay, Hours and Benefits

  • £36,000 - £40,000 
  • 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 3:00pm (with some flexibility)
  • 23 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Life insurance cover
  • Employee Assistance Programme

The Manufacturing Supervisor role is commutable from the following areas: Derby, Nottingham, Sutton in Ashfield, Mansfield, Chesterfield.


Role Overview

The Manufacturing Supervisor will be responsible for managing the Fabrication, Welding, Machine shop and Paint shop teams to ensure the efficient manufacturing of quality products, playing a crucial role in driving performance improvements and ensuring targets are met. Championing continuous improvement in all activities and areas of responsibilities.


Manufacturing Supervisor Candidate Requirements

  • A minimum of HND in Engineering (ideally)
  • 4+ years of relevant manufacturing experience
  • Experience in a technical manufacturing environment
  • IOSH/NEBOSH Certificate
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and train teams
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and meet targets
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Strong understanding of ISO 9001
  • Knowledge of 5S an Lean manufacturing principles
  • Driving License


Manufacturing Supervisor Key Responsibilities (but not limited to)

  • Oversee daily operations to ensure production targets and quality standards are met.
  • Lead, motivate, and manage a team of production employees to ensure efficient and high-quality manufacturing processes.
  • Monitor production performance and identify opportunities for process improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental standards at all times.
  • Ensure all products meet quality standards and compliance requirements
  • Train and develop team members to enhance skills and efficiency
  • Coordinate with other departments (quality control, maintenance, etc.) to ensure smooth operations.
  • Conduct regular team meetings to discuss performance, safety updates, and key objectives.
  • Monitor production processes and implement continuous improvement initiatives
  • Address any operational issues promptly and work towards effective resolutions.
  • Ensure that production targets are met on time, while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
  • Support and drive lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
 

Role and Company Overview

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced CNC Machinist to join a bespoke and successful engineering business. A global supplier with several decades of experience, this is one of their most exciting periods, with an increase in demand for their product leading to growth and investment onsite.

The CNC Machinist role is a newly created position, you will be a key part of the current team.


CNC Machinist Salary and Benefits

  • £34,000 - £36,000
  • 37.5 Hours per week, 8:00am – 4:00pm Monday to Friday
  • Paid overtime
  • Private health scheme 
  • Company performance bonus
  • Sick pay
  • •Immediate Start available

This position is commutable from – Burton upon Trent, Tamworth, Cannock, Walsall, Lichfield, Burntwood


CNC Machinist Candidate Requirements 

  • Programming experience 
  • The CNC Machinist will ideally have experience of XYZ Lathe and Bed Mills
  • Exposure to ProtoTRAK control experience would be useful, but training could be provided if needed
  • Experience in manual turning, milling & drilling would be an advantage
  • Any experience with CMM would be an advantage
  • Haas operation experience would be a significant advantage
 

The Company

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Continuous Improvement Engineer to join an established, world renown iconic British manufacturer, a trusted name in quality, innovation, and tradition. 

As an employer, it blends deep-rooted values with forward-thinking design and engineering — offering a workplace where craftsmanship, creativity, and pride in product truly matter. 

Employees become part of a legacy that continues to shape the industry. For those who want to work with purpose, in a business respected worldwide for its authenticity and excellence, this is more than a job — it’s a place to grow, contribute, and be proud of what you help build.

Continuous Improvement Engineer Salary, Hours and Benefits

  • £43,000 dependant on experience
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Life Assurance & company sick pay
  • Company discounts
  • Supportive and collaborative culture
  • Opportunities for development

Commutable From: Coventry, Warwick, Stratford upon Avon, Redditch, Daventry, Rugby

Role Function 

The Continuous Improvement Engineer will play a key part in improving and maintaining the company manufacturing processes, making them safer, more efficient, and consistent. Whether it’s rolling out new systems, supporting product launches, or driving continuous improvement, you’ll be the go-to person for process excellence.

Candidate Requirements

  • Proven experience in a Continuous Improvement Engineer role or similar
  • Experience within a pressing, sheet metal or fabrication environment would be advantageous
  • Engineering degree or equivalent experience
  • Can-do attitude, flexibility and adaptability
  • Solid understanding of Lean tools and ISO 9001 quality standards
  • Confident using CAD and reading technical drawings
  • IT proficiency
  • Strong planning, problem solving and communication skills
  • Self-motivated, organised, driven and capable of managing multiple projects

Responsibilities

  • The Continuous Improvement Engineer will maintain and improve safe, efficient production processes
  • Spot and reduce workplace risks, supporting a culture of H&S
  • Lead and support improvement projects to minimise waste, boost output and improve delivery performance
  • Use lean tools to solve problems and increase efficiency
  • Create new layouts, workflows and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Support and evaluate process and design changes
  • Help bring new products into production
  • Improve quality control and process consistency
  • Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams
 

Due to enormous growth my client is in need of a number of production technicians to join them on a continental shift rota. As production technician you will be hands-on with the machinery, spotting faults and preventing downtime. So, we are looking for technically minded candidates who would like to be part of an amazing progressive company. You will start on a salary of £33,773 for the first 12 weeks of training, this rise will to £37,500 and then after 6-12 months will rise to £41,200. 

My client is investing millions every year into new technology, automation and progressive new projects. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, please apply now to avoid missing out. 

Production Technician Benefits: 

  • £33,733 - £41,200
  • Premium OT (x1.5/x2) 
  • 13% pension (5%/8%). 
  • 23 days holiday. 
  • Health cash plan. 
  • Health and life insurance. 
  • Tech schemes. 
  • Real training and development opportunities. 

Production Technician Duties include:

  • Continental shift rota. 
  • Ensure 100% compliance with industry standards. 
  • Fault finding, investigating issues and problem solving. 
  • Machinery start-ups and changeovers. 
  • Leading a line of machine operators and driving performance. 
  • Drive continuous improvement. 
  • Liaise with engineering teams on improvements. 

Production Technician Requirements include: 

  • Engineering qualifications would be a massive advantage. 
  • Technically minded. 
  • Competent to solve problems and issues. 
  • Worked previously on machinery or in an engineering environment. 
  • An effective communicator. 
  • Experience within a food environment would be beneficial. 

Please apply find out more about this fantastic role. 

This Production Technician position is commutable from: Telford, Shrewsbury, Market Drayton,  Wolverhampton, Bridgnorth, Newport,  and surrounding areas. 

 

CHEMICAL  ENGINEER

We are offering an exceptional opportunity for a CHEMICAL  ENGINEER.


This is an exciting Organisation to be part of, you would be joining a prestigious, state of the Art manufacturing organisation. Specialising in either high quality off the shelf modules, to individual new developments. We are very much at the forefront of brand -new technology.

We are considering both relevant Chemical Engineer  experience, or you might have recently graduated in Chemical Engineering and are looking for that first step on the ladder.

We have been providing pioneering technologies and products to our customers worldwide for a number of years now, out teams are accomplished teams of experts, highly specialised in the development, industrialisation and production.

MUST HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK

Commutable from Birmingham, Halesowen, Stourbridge, Worcester, Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Harbourne, Moseley, Droitwich, Walsall, Aldridge, Sutton Coldfield, Minworth, Willenhall, Dudley, Rowley Regis, Bearwood and Wolverhampton

KEY BENEFITS

  • Salary: £42,000 - £46,000
  • Free parking on site
  • Life Assurance
  • Generous sick scheme if needed
  • DAY position
  • Overtime Paid
  • Life Assurance
  • Large, stable well -established business
  • Super long- term prospects
  • Friendly supportive team

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure all Chemical Engineering is compliant
  • HAZOP assessments
  • Design, implement and commission plant modifications, modifications to existing plant
  • Hazard assessments
  • Working closely with the Projects team to help develop the plant design, layout, costings and proposals
  • Provide technical expertise
  • Developing new processes and existing ones
  • Exposure to COMAH regulations would be advantageous as would DSEAR methodology

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU!

  • A Degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
  • Ideally, you will have gained Chemical Process Engineering experience from within an engineering or manufacturing setting.

We can only consider applications with the right to work in the UK.  No Sponsorship can be offered.

 

This is your chance to join a global leader in heavy machinery design / bulk materials handling equipment, supplying innovative solutions to the mining and quarrying sectors for over four decades. With operations in over 10 countries and a reputation for cutting-edge engineering, the company is driving sustainable efficiency across some of the world’s most demanding industrial environments.

You’ll be part of a close-knit, highly skilled team shaping the future of bulk materials handling through precision engineering, robust innovation, and international collaboration. This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact within a specialist engineering business that blends heritage, technical excellence, and a forward-looking vision.

Role Location: Located offshore in the British Isles.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with a background in Bulk Materials Handling / Machine Design to contribute to the design, development, and optimization of the company engineering solutions. This role requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration with global teams. International travel will be required for site visits, client engagement, and project support.

Role Location: Located offshore in the British Isles.

Mechanical Engineer Pay and Benefits

  • Salary £55,000 - £85,000
  • Working Hours: 8:30am - 5:00pm with flexibility (100% office-based role)
  • Realistic career progression / career growth opportunities
  • 10% employer pension
  • Performance related bonus (company/individual)
  • Relocation package
  • Company will support Work Permits requirements where required 

Mechanical Engineer Candidate Requirements

  • Proven experience in product design within the Mining Industry / Bulk Materials Handling or similar. 
  • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and engineering analysis tools (FEA, DEM, CFD, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of mechanical principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
  • Knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, or automation systems.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and create technical drawings and specifications.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills, with experience working in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
  • Willingness and ability to travel internationally for project and client interactions.

Mechanical Engineer Responsibilities

  • Design and develop mechanical components and systems for engineering projects.
  • Conduct engineering calculations, simulations (FEA, DEM), and performance analyses.
  • Work closely with design, manufacturing, and project teams to ensure seamless execution.
  • Provide technical support for ongoing projects and client requirements.
  • Oversee the testing, validation, and commissioning of mechanical systems.
  • Ensure designs comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.
  • Collaborate with international teams, suppliers, and clients to optimize engineering solutions.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and improving existing products and processes.
  • Participate in international travel for site visits, project discussions, and technical support.
 

We’re working with a market-leading manufacturer and supply chain partner specializing in reusable plastic container systems — a growing segment at the heart of sustainable logistics and circular economy initiatives.

The company operates across the UK and international markets, supplying reusable packaging solutions to some of the world’s most recognizable retailers and food producers. It combines innovative product design with a strong operational footprint and a commitment to reducing single-use packaging waste.

Toolmaker Hours, Pay and Benefits

  • Salary £40,000 (including shift allowance)
  • Working hours. There are two options: 10:00am – 6:00pm Monday to Friday or 2:00pm -10:00pm Monday to Friday
  • 25 days holiday, plus statutory
  • Sick pay based on length of service, up to 24 weeks

Toolmaker Role Purpose 

The Toolmaker will repair and service the moulding machine tools, and related equipment, in a timely and efficient manner.

Commutable From: Leicester, Corby, Peterborough, and Grantham. 

Candidate Requirements

  • Time served toolmaker – for insurance purposes, Apprenticeship / Qualifications have to be from the UK
  • Proven Injection Mould / Plastics experience. 
  • Electrical experience is an advantage but not a necessity.
  • Experienced in the operation of toolmaking equipment, eg grinders, lathes, machining.
  • CNC Machining centre experience an advantage.
  • A base understanding on pneumatics and hydraulics.
  • Ability to understand technical drawings.
  • Computer literate.

Toolmaker Key Responsibilities

  • Build, repair and maintain tooling
  • Work to fine tolerances
  • Prove tooling and troubleshoot until running acceptably - target to enable the tools to run "right first-time" in a production environment
  • Able to understand technical drawings
  • Liaise with operational staff to understand tooling related issues
  • Maintenance of machinery on site
  • General tool making tasks
  • To be flexible in a “breakdown” scenario
 

Probe Technical are looking to recruit a full time and permanent shift Supervisor to join a market leading Manufacturing facility. We will consider someone that isn’t currently a supervisor but wanting that next step up.  Your role will be to assist within the Management team, supervising the Operatives and Fitters on shift. It is a very hands-on role, where some Engineering experience is beneficial as you will be required to do some Maintenance.  This is an excellent time to join due to business growth.   

You must be flexible to work 12-hour shifts, covering days, nights and weekends. 

The package details for the role of Shift Supervisor:

  • Salary £47,000 depending on experience.  
  • Company pension matched (will be disclosed at interview)
  • Enhanced Holiday – Holiday increases with service 
  • Life Assurance 
  • Discretionary company bonus (% discussed at interview) 

Along with a minimum requirement of a Level 2 in Engineering / Mechanical Maintenance Engineering, some duties and experience for the Shift Supervisor will involve:

  • Following Health & Safety regulations.
  • Reactive response to breakdowns within the factory. Hydraulic and Pneumatic experience is desirable. 
  • Work closely with production teams to ensure the plants are achieving efficiency 
  • Responsibility for the efficient operation of the production lines and associated activities.
  • Delegating work to Production Operatives and Maintenance Fitters / Engineers on shift 
  • Previous background / experience within a heavy manufacturing environment. 

The role of Shift Supervisor is commutable from Derby, Burton on Trent, Swadlincote and Ashby-de-la-Zouch