Production Operative (Multi Skilled Operative)

Company Description

Sonoco is a global leader in sustainable metal and paper packaging, serving many of the world’s best-known consumer and industrial brands. Founded in 1899, the company generates billions in annual net sales and operates with approximately 22,000 employees across 265 sites in 37 countries. Guided by the purpose “Better Packaging.

Better Life.” Sonoco focuses on innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence to deliver integrated packaging solutions that enhance products and customer experiences. The company is widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability and responsibility, earning repeated honours as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies and one of America’s Climate Leaders.

Sonoco continues to invest in products, services, and programs that support a more sustainable future for customers, employees, and communities.

Role Description

The Production Operative (Multi Skilled Operative) role is a full-time, on-site position based in Holywell Green. Working 33.6 hours per week (£21.63 p/h) over a 5-week shift rota. Required to work 2 consecutive weekends out of 5 in accordance with the shift rota. Annual leave is rostered time off as part of the shift rota. 9 consecutive days off every 5th week.

This role involves operating and monitoring production machinery, supporting production runs, and ensuring efficient, safe, and continuous manufacturing processes. The operative will perform routine equipment checks, carry out basic maintenance tasks, and promptly report any issues or downtime to supervisors.

Day-to-day responsibilities include following production plans, maintaining quality standards, completing documentation, and handling materials and finished goods in line with safety and housekeeping requirements. The role also involves collaborating with team members, supporting cross-training activities, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives within the plant.

Skills & Experience

• Experience of working in a production or continuous manufacturing process.
• FLT counterbalance license desirable.
• Ability to support Production Planning and coordinate workflow to meet production schedules and targets.
• Strong Communication skills for effective collaboration with teammates, supervisors, and cross-functional partners.
• Experience with Quality Control processes, including inspections, measurements, and adherence to product specifications.
• Understanding of health, safety, and environmental standards in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to learn machine operation and troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and willingness to work shifts or flexible hours as needed.

Employee Benefits

• Workplace pension scheme - matched contribution up to a maximum of 11% employer contribution.
• Employee assistance programme - Operated by ComPsych, one of the largest workplace providers of mental health services and recourses.
• Cycle to work scheme - Available after 12 months employment.
• Healthcare plan - Enrolled after 12 months employment.
• Sports & Social club, including on site gym (Small employee contribution required)
• Excellent life assurance cover whilst opted into the pension scheme.