Production Operative
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Position Overview & Specifications
Due to expansion, Cotteswold Dairy - a family business with 85 years’ history - are looking for enthusiastic and reliable individuals to join the Production Team. We process locally sourced milk, which is packaged at the Tewkesbury plant and delivered to our local depots who service our doorstep and retail customers nationally
Experience of working in food production would be ideal, however candidates who are proactive with the ability to work accurately and with precision in a fast-paced environment will also be considered
This is an excellent entry-level role to kick start a career in the Production Department
Production Operative Training
As a Training Centre with a dedicated Learning & Development Coordinator, and clear progression pathways, we offer development opportunities within the role to broaden your skillset and the ability to gain recognised qualifications. We strongly encourage progression within the business, and there are many additional skills you can gain in Production to further your development
IMPORTANT - This physically active role requires manual handling
The Production Operative Role
This role is hands-on in rotating roles across the factory. Key duties will include:
- Operating a variety of machinery to package products, and subsequently moving these units into cold storage ready for distribution
- Working across the production lines within the factory in line with your current level of training, operating machinery for the processing and filling of milk products
- Adherence to all site policies regarding food hygiene and health and safety, while maintaining a clean and hygienic work station*
- Due to food hygiene regulations only one solid wedding band is permitted. No earrings, studs, bracelets, necklaces, makeup, strong smelling deodorants or perfumes are permitted in the production area
Production Operative : Working Hours †
Early shift: 0600 - 1500; Late shift: 1400 – 2200 (Monday - Friday);
Early shift: 0600 - 1500 (Saturday)
† This is an example only – a degree of flexibility is required; days off are on a rota basis
** In order to meet the shift times you will need to have your own transportation or live within walking/cycling distance of the depot. Please note that Public Transport from Cheltenham, Gloucester or Worcester does not arrive at the depot early enough **
You will be forward thinking, have a positive attitude, and have a keen eye for detail; coupled with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, be reliably able to commute to work at the shift times indicated, and be flexible to work the full shift pattern
Company Benefits
We also offer benefits including:
- Competitive salary with scope to train and advance within the business
- 30 days’ holiday inclusive of Bank Holidays
- Additional day of holiday after 3 years’ service
- Refer a friend – receive up to £500 per referral
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted products, including doorstep delivery where available
- Group personal pension scheme via Aviva
- Health and wellbeing benefit with Simply Health
To be considered for this fantastic opportunity as a Production Operative please click apply now
Candidate Selection & Onboarding Process
Application & Resume Screening
Submit your tailored CV/Resume directly to the talent acquisition portal.
Technical & Competency Interviews
Virtual interviews with the hiring manager and multidisciplinary team.
Formal Offer & Benefits Negotiation
Written agreement outlining compensation, equity, retirement vesting, and relocation allowances.
Onboarding & Corporate Integration
Equipment provisioning, team orientation, and commencement of duties.
United Kingdom Right to Work & Skilled Worker Visa Guide
Employment in the United Kingdom requires legal Right to Work verified under the Home Office Points-Based Immigration System:
Sponsoring employers must hold an active Home Office A-rated Sponsor License and assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Role must meet the general minimum salary threshold (£38,700) or occupation going rate.
Continuous employment under Skilled Worker status establishes eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years, leading to British Citizenship.
Candidate Preparation Blueprint: Shipping & Trucking
Based on transatlantic hiring benchmarks for Production Operative roles across Cotteswold Dairy's corporate sector, successful applicants typically excel across three core dimensions:
Demonstrated portfolio evidence, architecture/system design case studies, or validated professional certifications directly applicable to Shipping & Trucking.
STAR method competency responses highlighting cross-functional leadership, conflict resolution, and delivering measurable enterprise ROI under tight timelines.
Total compensation expectation aligned within the benchmarked £11 - £11 bracket, including retirement vesting and health parity.
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