Food Production Recruitment Agency

Food Production Recruitment Agency

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Specialist Recruitment for the Food Production Industry

Need reliable food production staff or searching for jobs in food manufacturing? Quest Employment connects businesses with skilled, semi-skilled and entry-level workers for the fast-paced food production sector.

We understand that quality, compliance and efficiency are critical in food production. That’s why we supply fully trained and compliant candidates ready to meet both seasonal peaks and long-term staffing demands.

View our current food production vacancies

Roles We Recruit For:

  • ✔Food Production Operatives - Sorting, preparing & processing food items

  • ✔Quality Control Inspectors - Ensuring high production standards

  • ✔Machine & Line Operators - Running and maintaining production machinery

  • ✔Packing Operatives - Weighing, labelling & packaging food products

  • ✔Hygiene & Sanitation Operatives - Maintaining cleanliness & food safety compliance

Looking for expert food production recruitment or job opportunities?

Contact us today or visit your nearest Quest Employment branch, we’re ready to help you find the perfect fit.

Check out our branches

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of food production jobs do you offer?

We recruit for a variety of roles within food production, including positions for production operatives, packaging operatives, machine operators, supervisors and quality control inspectors.

Do you recruit for seasonal food production jobs?

Yes, we often have opportunities for seasonal food production roles, particularly during peak times in the food industry. These can range from temporary roles during holiday seasons to positions needed for large-scale production runs.

What are the typical working hours for food production roles?

Working hours vary depending on the specific role and employer. We offer day shifts, night shifts as well as part-time and full-time opportunities.

Is experience required to apply for food production jobs?

While previous experience in food production is an advantage, many of our clients are open to candidates who are willing to learn. We offer opportunities for entry-level roles as well as more experienced positions within the sector.

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  • Quote

    ​We’ve used Quest to find us suitable staff for our Ecommerce office for the past 18th months and they’ve come up trumps for every post we’ve had to fill. Each time, they found us suitable, hard-working, reliable candidates that are now valuable members of the team. Mardi and Kristina have both been fantastic in knowing just who would fit in with this small, but extremely busy office, and I would most certainly use them for all my recruitment needs.

    Client
    Client Bedford
  • Quote

    ​We have been working with Quest Employment over many years.During this time, Quest have worked with us to supply reliable staff that meet our business requirements.Quest Employment continues to work closely with us providing a great service, with clear communication and we have the confidence in Quest Employment to continue to provide our staff needs year after year.They are a professional team and available out of hours should the need arise.I strongly recommend using the service that Quest Employment provide in all your labour requirements.

    Client
    Client Bedford
Your Recruitment Team
Rhiannon Francis

Rhiannon Francis

Senior Recruitment Consultant

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Jobs in Food Production Recruitment Agency

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Featured Job
Multi-Skilled Shift Engineer - Leicester
Leicester
44000
​Multi Skilled Shift Engineer Location: Leicester Salary: £44,000 per annum Shifts: Two days followed by two nights (6am to 6pm), then four days off This role sits within a modern, fast-paced manufacturing environment where safety, quality and teamwork are central to how the site operates. As a Multi Skilled Shift Engineer you will play a key role in keeping production running safely and efficiently by responding to breakdowns, supporting planned maintenance, and helping to drive continuous improvement across the plant. Key Responsibilities: • Work to the planned preventative maintenance schedule, ensuring all paperwork and compliance is completed accurately • Complete statutory inspections on time and log any remedial works • Support improvements on site and contribute toward a continuous improvement culture • Respond to breakdowns promptly and complete repairs, including root cause analysis and corrective actions • Maintain high standards of housekeeping in a 5S environment • Liaise with external specialists when required • Follow company health and safety processes and raise any concerns promptly • Work closely with the Engineering Supervisor and Production Shift Managers • Be part of an engineering team who deliver a high level of service to operations • Communicate confidently and show initiative when taking the lead
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Featured Job
Pastry Chef de Partie - Watford
Watford
34894-39245
​Pastry Chef de Partie We are working with a prestigious luxury hotel and resort in Hertfordshire who are seeking a talented Pastry Chef de Partie to join their award-winning kitchen team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative pastry chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a genuine passion for producing exceptional desserts and pastries. The Role As Pastry Chef de Partie, you will take ownership of your section, ensuring the smooth delivery of high-quality desserts and pastries across the hotel’s outlets, including fine dining restaurants, afternoon tea service, large-scale banqueting, and exclusive events. You will work closely with the Head Pastry Chef to design and execute innovative menus that showcase both classical skills and modern techniques. Key Responsibilities: Prepare, produce and present a wide range of pastries, desserts, breads and baked goods to the highest standard. Deliver creative menus using seasonal ingredients, with input into new ideas and product development. Support in the production of showpieces and bespoke creations for weddings, events and celebrations. Lead and organise your own section during service, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. Train, mentor and support junior chefs to help them develop their skills and confidence. Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene and cleanliness standards at all times. About You: Previous experience as a Pastry Chef de Partie (or a strong Demi Chef ready to step up). Solid background in classical pastry techniques, with the creativity to bring new ideas. A passion for innovation, presentation and attention to detail. Ability to perform under pressure in a busy kitchen environment. Strong team player with a supportive and proactive approach. What’s on Offer: Competitive salary and benefits package. The chance to work with a highly skilled pastry team in a luxury 5* environment. Staff meals on duty and access to excellent employee facilities. Subsidised staff accommodation (if required). Generous discounts on hotel stays, dining and leisure experiences. Real opportunities for training, career growth and progression. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated Pastry Chef de Partie to showcase their skills and progress their career within a prestigious setting. If this sounds like the perfect next step for you, please apply today to find out more.
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Featured Job
Quality Engineer - Leicester
Leicester
32000-36000
Monday - Friday: 9-5pm Reporting into the Head of Operations, this position focuses on improving quality across production and manufacturing. The purpose of the role is to drive continuous improvement, reduce waste, support better operational efficiency, and ultimately improve margins. The Role Includes: • Reviewing and improving quality procedures • Managing NCRs (internal and external) and completing full root-cause analysis • Implementing corrective and preventative actions • Working on the shop floor with operators to embed line-side checks • Defining how key quality characteristics are measured and monitored • Producing reports and using data to drive improvement initiatives • Training and upskilling internal teams on new work procedures • Liaising with suppliers and customers on quality issues • Conducting supplier audits and qualifying new suppliers • Supporting a continuous improvement culture across the business What They’re Looking For: • Strong manufacturing background • Experience with ISO9001 • Diploma or Degree Level qualification • Structured problem-solving mindset with the ability to use data to influence change • Hands on, confident, and able to work closely with production teams • Strong communication skills and able to influence senior stakeholders Desired (Not Essential): • Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt) • IRCA qualified • Experience within FMCG or chemical environments This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys being close to the shop floor, improving processes, and leading quality initiatives that make a measurable difference to the business.
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Featured Job
Roadside Recovery Driver - HGV Class 2 - Banbury
Banbury
13-14 per hour
​Job Title: Food Production Operative Location: Banbury Shift Pattern:4 on / 4 off – rotational days and nights Hours:6:00am – 6:00pm | 6:00pm – 6:00am Pay Rate:£13.00 per hour + shift allowance for weekend shifts Contract Type: Temporary, ongoing Role Overview: We are currently recruiting Food Production Operatives to join a busy and growing food manufacturing environment. This is an ongoing temporary opportunity offering regular work on a rotating 4 on / 4 off shift pattern, covering both days and nights. You will play a key role in supporting production operations while maintaining high standards of quality, hygiene, and safety. Key Responsibilities: Operating on production lines within a food manufacturing environment Packing, labelling, and preparing food products for distribution Monitoring product quality and reporting any defects or issues Following food safety, hygiene, and health & safety procedures at all times Maintaining a clean and organised work area Meeting production targets in a fast-paced environment Supporting machine operators and production teams as required Requirements: Previous experience within food production or manufacturing preferred (not essential) Ability to work rotational day and night shifts on a 4 on / 4 off pattern Good attention to detail and commitment to quality standards Reliable, punctual, and able to work as part of a team Understanding of food hygiene and safety procedures What’s on Offer: £13.00 per hour Additional shift allowance for weekend shifts Ongoing temporary work with regular hours Training provided and opportunity to gain experience in food manufacturing If you are reliable, hardworking, and looking for long-term temporary work within food production, we would love to hear from you.
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Featured Job
Maintenance (Multi Skilled) Engineer - Stoke on Trent
Stoke-on-Trent
42000-48000
​We are Hiring: Maintenance Engineer (Manufacturing / Distribution) Location: Stoke on Trent Type: Permanent Salary:£42 - £48 000.00 p/a (DOE) Start Date: Immediately Hours: 39 Hours per week ​ Job Description:  We are seeking a skilled and proactive Maintenance Engineer to join our manufacturing and distribution client operation. You will play a key role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of all plant, machinery, and site facilities. This is a hands-on role requiring strong fault-finding skills, a proactive maintenance approach, and the ability to work across mechanical, electrical, and general building maintenance disciplines.  Duties and Responsibilities: ·       Working with the maintenance team to guarantee the safe operation of all machinery. ·       Carry out planned preventative maintenance (PPM) on manufacturing and site equipment to minimise downtime. ·       Taking ownership of jobs and following it through to the end from diagnosis to ordering parts and fitting and testing. ·       Adherence to health, safety and environmental regulations. ·       Respond to reactive maintenance issues, diagnosing faults and completing repairs efficiently. ·       Take ownership of maintenance tasks from fault diagnosis through to parts ordering, repair, testing, and sign-off. ·       Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to improve equipment reliability and maintenance processes. ·       Ensure all work is carried out in line with health, safety, and environmental regulations. ·       Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation. ·       Assist with general site and building maintenance when required. ·       Liaise with external contractors and suppliers as necessary. ​ Requirements: ·       Minimum of 5 years working experience. ·       You will be a practical and reliable engineer with experience working in a manufacturing, distribution or production environment. Mechanical and/or electrical engineering background (electrical bias advantageous). Ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical drawings. Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills. Experience maintaining production machinery and automated equipment. Good organisational and time management skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Good IT literacy for maintenance systems and reporting. Relevant engineering qualifications (NVQ, City & Guilds, HNC, or equivalent). Experience within furniture, joinery, sanitaryware, or similar manufacturing environments. Working with, but not limited to CNC, hydraulic press, automatic spray booths, panel cutting machines, edging machines and robotics. Knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and basic PLC fault finding.  Job Reference (when applying): ·       #MAINENG
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Featured Job
Production Operative - Corby
Corby
£12-13 per hour
​POSITION:PRODUCTION OPERATIVE LOCATION:CORBY, NN17 5 PAYRATE: £12.31 - £13.21 PER HOUR SHIFT PATTERN:6AM – 4PM ‘OR’ 4PM – 2AM (Monday to Thursday) HOURS PER WEEK:40 HOURS AS STANDARD Quest Employment of Corby are pleased to be actively seeking Production Operatives for a long-term opportunity based in Corby. Our client is a global leader in the production of flavours and spices for the cosmetics and food industry and boast a newly refitted facility offering excellent employee benefits & training. Within these roles you will spend most of your time working independently on various lines ensuring that ingredients are measured and distributed to various machines. Full training is provided for the right candidate, and this is a long-term Temporary to Permanent role therefore we are seeking dependable, committed people who are keen to work for an excellent employer with a view to securing a permanent contract. To be considered for these positions ideally you will have experience of working within the food production industry, however, this is not essential. You must however have: ·        Physically fit (lifting weights of up to 25kg throughout your shift) ·        Able to work in warm and potentially ‘dusty’ environments. ·        Excellent attention to detail ·        Willing to be trained on various tasks. ·        Able to work at heights. ·        The ability to work on your own (after training) This is an excellent opportunity to work in a steady paced, welcoming environment with a great culture, excellent facilities, and an engaging and supportive Management team.  If you are interested in the excellent opportunity and are seeking an immediate start, it is highly recommended that you contact Quest Employment at the first possible opportunity.  
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Featured Job
F3 - Pan - Production Operative - Peterborough
Peterborough
£14.41 - £15.30 per hour inc. shift allowance
Overview We are seeking dedicated and diligent Production Operatives to join our team. As a Production Operative will be responsible for various tasks including coating, mixing, packing biscuit product, stacking pallets, and ensuring the quality of our products. Shift Patterns 24/7 - Panama Shift Pattern - 06:00am-18:00pm / 18:00pm-18:00am - 2 x days on - 2 x days off - 3 x days on - followed by 2 x days off - 2 x days on - 3 x days off. Competitive Pay Pre AWR - Monday - Sunday to first 34.5 / 46 hours £12.21 per hour, Over 40.25 hours through the 2 weekly average £18.32, additional £2.20 shift allowance on all hours when working agreed shift rotations, base rate starts at £14.41 including shift allowance. (shift allowance paid on core hours only).Pre 12 weeks 1 x 30 Minute break unpaid. Post AWR - Monday - Sunday to first 36 /48 hours £12.97 per hour, Over 42 hours through the 2 weekly average £19.46, additional £2.33 shift allowance on all hours when working agreed shift rotations, base rate starts at £15.30 including shift allowance. (shift allowance paid on core hours only).Post 12 weeks all breaks paid. Role Responsibilities Baking, coating, mixing, and packing biscuits within a dusty environment Stacking pallets and labelling products Ensuring products meet quality standards Lifting up to 25kg and standing for long periods Maintaining a clean and safe workspace Qualifications Previous experience in a production or manufacturing environment preferred Ability to lift up to 25kg and stand for extended periods Computer literacy for recording and tracking production data Attention to detail and a commitment to product quality Day-to-day Mixing, coating and baking biscuit product, Packing and labelling finished products Operating machinery and equipment as required Following health and safety protocols Working as part of a team to meet production targets Benefits Club Quest Membership: Access a variety of health and financial wellbeing benefits. Great Progression Opportunities: Grow your career with us! Full PPE Provided: Work safely and comfortably. Free Onsite Parking: Convenient access to your workplace. Weekly Pay: Enjoy pay every Friday. Temporary to Permanent Opportunities: Potential for a long-term career.
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Featured Job
Team Leader - Stevenage
Stevenage
£13.76 to £14.26 Per Hour
​As a Team Leader, you will be crucial in ensuring the efficient operation of food production lines. You will supervise a team of production operatives, maintain safety and quality standards, and ensure production targets are met. This role requires strong leadership skills, excellent communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Key Responsibilities: Supervise and coordinate the activities of production staff. Ensure production schedules are met with minimal downtime. Maintain high standards of product quality and safety. Train and mentor team members to enhance their skills and performance. Monitor and report on production metrics. Implement and enforce health and safety regulations. Identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions. Collaborate with other departments to optimize production processes. Requirements: Proven experience in a supervisory role within a food production or manufacturing environment. Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines. Knowledge of health and safety regulations in a manufacturing setting. Flexibility to work 12-hour shifts on a rotating schedule. Shifts: Sunday to Wednesday Wednesday to Saturday Shift Hours: Day Shift: 07:00 - 19:00 Night Shift: 19:00 - 07:00 Benefits: Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth and development. A supportive and collaborative work environment. Comprehensive training and onboarding program. How to Apply: If you are a motivated and experienced professional looking to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this position.
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Featured Job
Production Operative - Peterborough
Peterborough
£13.68 - £14.53 per hour
Overview We are seeking a dedicated and diligent Production Operative to join our team. The Production Operative will be responsible for various tasks including baking, mixing, packing biscuits, stacking pallets, and ensuring the quality of our products. Shift Patterns The Production Operative will work a 3 shift Rotation – 1 week on each. 6-2pm / 2-10pm / 10pm-6am - shift rotates in reverse e.g. Nights - Lates - Days Competitive Pay Production Operative - Pre AWR - Monday - Sunday to first 37.5 hours £12.21 per hour, Over 37.5 hours weekly £18.32, additional £1.47 per hour shift allowance when working all 3 shifts on rotation. Production Operative - Post AWR - Monday - Sunday to first 40 hours £12.97 per hour, Over 40 hours weekly £19.08, additional £1.56 per hour shift allowance when working all 3 shifts on rotation. Role Responsibilities Baking, mixing, and packing biscuits in a dusty environment Stacking pallets and labeling products Ensuring products meet quality standards Lifting up to 25kg and standing for long periods Maintaining a clean and safe workspace Qualifications Previous experience in a production or manufacturing environment preferred Ability to lift up to 25kg and stand for extended periods Computer literacy for recording and tracking production data Attention to detail and a commitment to product quality Day-to-day Mixing and baking biscuit dough Packing and labeling finished products Operating machinery and equipment as required Following health and safety protocols Working as part of a team to meet production targets Benefits Club Quest Membership: Access a variety of health and financial wellbeing benefits. Great Progression Opportunities: Grow your career with us! Flexible Working Rotas. Full PPE Provided: Work safely and comfortably. Free Onsite Parking: Convenient access to your workplace. Weekly Pay: Enjoy pay every Friday. Temporary to Permanent Opportunities: Potential for a long-term career.
Apply Now
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