Job Description:

Production Operator
Location: Ballymena, Northern Ireland
Pay Rate: £16.35 per hour (up to 40 hours) | £25.53 per hour for hours worked over 40
Hours: 40 hours per week, rotating shifts (Early/Late)

Production Operator – Animal Feed Manufacturer
Our client is looking for a reliable and motivated Production Operator to join their busy manufacturing team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with manufacturing, production, or warehouse experience who enjoys working in a hands-on environment and takes pride in maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
Working as part of the production team, you will be responsible for operating production equipment, monitoring product quality, handling raw materials, and ensuring production areas are maintained to a high standard.
Key Responsibilities
Mixing & Blending

• Schedule and input production orders in line with cross-contamination procedures.
• Monitor and oversee a computer-controlled batching system throughout production.
• Take samples of finished products and carry out physical quality checks.
• Monitor raw material stocks and replenish supplement bins as required.
• Accurately weigh and manually add premixes, supplements, and other ingredients.
• Maintain clean, tidy, and safe production areas.

Pelleting & Machinery Operation

• Schedule production runs in accordance with cross-contamination procedures.
• Operate two pelleting press lines using computer-controlled systems.
• Sample finished products and assess product quality.
• Carry out basic machinery maintenance and end-of-shift cleaning.
• Maintain good housekeeping standards throughout the production area.

Additional Duties

• Operate bulk raw material intake systems.
• Receive, book in, and store bagged raw materials.
• Load finished products for dispatch in bulk or mini-bulk formats.
• Support other areas of the business when required.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience in manufacturing, production, or warehousing is desirable.
• Good attention to detail and a commitment to product quality.
• Ability to follow procedures, including cross-contamination and safety requirements.
• Confidence working with machinery and computer-controlled systems, or a willingness to learn.
• Ability to handle raw materials and carry out manual weighing and tipping tasks.
• A reliable, flexible, and proactive approach to work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Pay, Hours & Benefits

• £16.35 per hour for up to 40 hours per week.
• £25.53 per hour for hours worked over 40 per week.
• 40-hour working week, including a paid 30-minute break each day.
• Rotating shifts: 6:00am–2:00pm and 2:00pm–10:00pm.
• Overtime opportunities, including extended hours and Saturdays, depending on production demand.
• 29 days' annual holiday, including 8 bank holidays.
• Workplace pension in accordance with statutory requirements