Machine Operator

Position: Machine Operator - DAYS
NEW VACANCY! (PK9088)

MACHINE OPERATOR - DAYS

ESSEX

SALARY £14.90 PER HOUR + Overtime Available + 22 Days Holiday plus Bank Holidays + Life Insurance 2x Salary

MONDAY TO THURSDAY: 7.30AM TILL 4PM / FRIDAY: 6AM TILL 12PM

Our client is an independent manufacturer of bespoke cardboard tubes and cores producing millions of tubes annually, ranging from small diameters to large custom sizes, serving a wide range of sectors from industrial packaging, postal tubes, display/film props and carpet cores.

They are looking for an experienced Machine Operator to join their printed and labelled cardboard tube production team. You will be responsible for setting up, operating and maintaining winding, labelling and finishing machinery, ensuring all packaging meets their high-quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Responsible for setting up, operating and monitor machinery for winding, cutting, labelling and finishing cardboard tubes
Adjust machine settings (speed, tension, alignment, adhesives) to meet targets
Perform start-up, shutdown and changeover procedures efficiently
Load materials (cores, labels, adhesives, wraps) & maintain continuous machine operation
Inspect tubes for print alignment, label placement, cuts, seams, and overall finish
Measure product dimensions to ensure compliance with specifications
Identify and reject out-of-spec products, escalating issues as needed
Accurately record production and quality data
Routine machine maintenance (lubrication, cleaning, blade changes, alignment checks)
Report mechanical issues promptly to the maintenance team
Maintain a clean, safe, and organised work area in line with 5S standards
Adhere to all company safety policies and procedures
Wear required PPE and participate in safety training
Report hazards, near misses, and incidents immediately
Collaborate with colleagues to achieve production targets
Support lean manufacturing initiatives and efficiency improvements
Contribute ideas to reduce waste and increase throughput

Requirements:

Previous manufacturing or machine operation experience (packaging, print, converting, labels, tissue, cardboard, or similar industries preferred)

Experience with tubular winding machines, label applicators, or cutting/finishing equipment (Desirable)
Basic maintenance or engineering skills (Desirable)
Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new machinery
Strong attention to detail with high-quality awareness
Ability to follow technical instructions and production specifications
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Good communication skills and ability to work in a small, collaborative team