Job Description
Assistant Machine Operator – Manufacturing
Shift Pattern: 5-Shift Rotation 7 on 2 off 7 on 2 off 7 on 10 off, days nights and afters
Location: Rotherham
£41,000
The Role
An opportunity has arisen for an Assistant Machine Operator to support production operations within a high-volume manufacturing environment. The role involves safe machine operation, quality monitoring, fault diagnosis, housekeeping, and supporting production teams to achieve performance, safety, and quality targets.
This is a hands-on position requiring strong technical awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively within a shift-based operation.
Key Responsibilities
* Operate production machinery safely and in line with company procedures and standard operating practices.
* Support machine operators during operation as directed by shift supervision.
* Identify, diagnose, and correct product and process faults.
* Maintain a clean, safe, and hazard-free working area around production equipment.
* Accurately record machine actions, process parameters, and quality checks in manual and electronic systems.
* Carry out routine quality and gauging checks and record results as required.
* Communicate production or quality issues to downstream processes using internal systems.
* Handle tooling and production equipment carefully to avoid damage or downtime.
* Replace consumable items from stores as required.
* Take readings and measurements at key stages of production when directed.
* Assist with housekeeping at the start and end of shifts, including enhanced cleaning tasks on night shifts.
* Work to departmental targets and act on information provided in production schedules or shift communications.
* Support continuous improvement activities and team objectives.
* Undertake any other reasonable duties within skill set and training.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
* Strong knowledge of production faults and problem-solving techniques.
* Previous experience operating and/or setting machinery in a manufacturing environment.
* Experience of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement activities.
* Good technical understanding with the ability to troubleshoot machinery-related issues.
* Confident user of PC-based systems for data input and process monitoring.
* Good written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to safely operate machinery controls from the production floor.
Qualifications & Training
* Mechanical qualification (City & Guilds or equivalent).
* Health & Safety qualification (e.g. IOSH or equivalent).
* Educated to GCSE level or equivalent, including Maths, English, and a science subject.
* Motivated, professional, and results-driven with a strong safety focus.
* High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
* Logical and analytical approach to work.
* Resilient and able to work in a fast-paced, pressurised environment.
* Strong interpersonal skills; confident working with a wide range of colleagues.
* Proactive, adaptable, and open to change.
* Willing to take ownership and responsibility.
* Actively promotes safety, standards, and continuous improvement.