Smurfit Westrock the global leader in paper-based packaging is offering opportunities at their Belfast based plant (Mallusk Newtownabbey) The Belfast plant is the largest pharmaceutical packaging facility in Ireland and has been in existence for over 100 years. We offer secure full-time employment with excellent career development opportunities, highly competitive salary and employee incentives. The Belfast site has an annual turnover >£40 million and 170 FT employees. Due to continued growth, we are seeking to fill the role: Machine Operator Pharmaceutical Packaging Are you an experienced Machine Operator looking for a role where your technical skill, problem-solving ability, and leadership really matter? Were looking for a proactive, quality-driven operator to run and maintain our finishing machinery, playing a crucial role in producing high-quality pharmaceutical packaging. If you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoy taking responsibility for output, quality, and continuous improvement, this is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career. Job Purpose You will take ownership of the final finishing stage of our production process, ensuring pharmaceutical packaging products are completed to the highest standards. This includes full machine setup, operation, and optimisation, while leading a small crew and maintaining strict compliance within industry standards. Key Responsibilities Maintenance & Machine Care Carry out machine setup, routine checks, and planned maintenance in line with the company maintenance programme Maintain excellent housekeeping around the machine and work area Work closely with engineering to report faults and improve machine reliability Assist with fault-finding and resolving machine issues Production & Quality Set up and run finishing machines to optimum performance Complete the final stage of producing pharmaceutical packaging products Meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets Maximise machine efficiency and minimise downtime Support continuous improvement and participate in improvement projects Work in accordance with company procedures to comply with Health & Safety requirements Knowledge, Skills & Experience At least 1 years experience in setting up, operating, and carrying out basic maintenance on machinery within a manufacturing or print/packaging environment Experience with Bobst and/or Heidelberg machines is a strong advantage Ability to take ownership of output and product quality Person Specification Results-driven with a strong focus on quality Flexible and able to work a double-day shift pattern, Monday to Friday Ability to work independently and as part of a team Strong communication skills Confident problem-solver with a proactive mindset Adaptable and open to change Salary Competitive salary: £36,000 £40,000 (depending on experience) Opportunities for Progression Skilled operators who demonstrate initiative, leadership, and strong technical ability will have opportunities to progress into: Senior Machine Operator roles Crew Leader or Shift Leader positions Technical specialist or trainer roles Continuous improvement or project roles Benefits Free onsite parking Enhanced pension contributions 195 hours flexible holiday allowance, plus 8 annual bank holidays Cycle to work scheme Company sponsored education opportunities Employee perks and discount platform Employee Assistance Programme Long service awards Reward and recognition initiatives Shift premium paid in addition to basic salary