Food Production Recruitment Agency | Quest Employment

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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

At Quest Employment, we ensure all food production workers meet industry standards—including food hygiene regulations and safety training—so you can maintain operational excellence with every hire.

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.

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Your Recruitment Team

Katie Millinder

Katie Millinder

Regional Manager

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James Hunter

James Hunter

Regional Manager

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Nik Pagan

Nik Pagan

Senior Branch Manager

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Joanna Brzezinska

Joanna Brzezinska

Senior Branch Manager

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Adam Waller

Adam Waller

Branch Manager

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Charlie Hornby

Charlie Hornby

Branch Manager

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Jobs in Food Production

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Laboratory Technician

£12.50 per hour (4 on 4 off 32 hours)

Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join our team. As a Laboratory Technician, you will be responsible for supporting the laboratory operations and ensuring the quality and safety of the products. The ideal candidate will have an interest in becoming a Laboratory Technician, preferably having some knowledge or understanding of HACCP and food safety regulations. In this role you would learn and complete all aspects of sampling and testing of raw, intermediate, stored and packed product. Ensure all results are recorded and any deviations from standard as escalated as per site procedures. Technical support for factory, including independent auditing and reporting. Shift Patterns This position will run an a 4 on 4 off basis 07:30 - 15:30, 32 hours per week. Pay We offer competitive pay at £12.50 per hour, full training can be provided with opportunities for professional development. Responsibilities / Duties Understand and comply with company policies covering health, safety and environment Ideally have L3 food safety & HACCP & a basic understanding of allergen awareness and site security requirements Bring to management attention; evidence of unsafe or out of specification product or raw materials. Comply with site hygiene rules, including hand washing procedure and hygiene barriers Ensure self and colleagues work in a safe manner always, protecting the environment, in accordance with training given Assist accident investigations and communicate as much information as possible to the shift supervisor and department manager to ensure a full investigation can take place Report defects, near misses, accidents and damage to company property as it happens Co-operate with others on health and safety and not interfere with anything provided for your health, safety and welfare. Responsible for manufacturing product to specification and aligned to product Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Follow Good Manufacturing Practice and adopt a “clean as you go culture” Ensure workplace organisation and maintain good housekeeping. Contribute to development and maintenance of SOPs, risk assessments and process standards Flexibility to work in all areas of the laboratory, within safe and trained limits Assist and support colleagues who are training Communicate safety, quality and output daily information Contribute to team and personal objectives (Key Performance Indicators – KPI) that are administered in the company appraisal process Preferred Qualifications / Experience Previous experience as a Laboratory Technician preferred but not essential Knowledge of HACCP and food safety protocols Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures Excellent communication and teamwork skills Day-to-day To learn and execute established laboratory methods, procedures, documenting results in designated systems. Ensure all daily equipment checks and calibrations are performed, and deviations reported/acted on. Complete yearly and monthly in-house checks and calibrations on lab equipment and keep records. Ensure all product releases comply with appropriate customer specifications, escalating if required. Control samples sent for external analysis, correlating results to production batches in timely manner. Aid and provide cover for the Laboratory Supervisor. Deeper involvement in system and factory auditing, quality system development and ad hoc projects. Collaboration with staff at all levels of the business and all departments. Proactive approach to data collection, problem solving and continuous improvement Proactive approach to any deviations seen during factory visits (Ensuring ‘Audit Ready’ status at all times) Follow up of non-conformities raised on internal audits, Complete internal auditing and system inspection programmes for Health, Hygiene, Glass and Plastics. Responsible for the completion of traceability exercises and support in customer audits. Site Location Must have own transport or transportation due to site location

Food Production Operative

• Monday to Thursday: £13.00 per hour • Sunday: £19.50 per hour

Quest Employment is excited to announce that we are recruiting for a Food Production Operative for a client based in the Birmingham B3 area! • Monday to Thursday: £13.00 per hour • Sunday: £19.50 per hour • Monday to Thursday: Start at 5 AM, finishing typically between Midday and 1 PM depending on workload. • Potential Sunday Hours: 6 AM - 10 AM (if interested). • Work within the Packing area, cutting sausages and placing them into trays. • Clean workstations and assist with cleaning the production area. • For those who are physically fit, there’s the opportunity to work on the production line, helping with mixing and operating a mincer under supervision. Previous food production experience is preferred. • Note that the production side may involve heavier lifting (up to 25kg). We are looking for hard-working, reliable individuals who are eager to contribute to all factory needs under supervision. This position could lead to a long-term opportunity for the right candidate, but we are also happy to assist with short to medium-term placements. If you are ready to get stuck in and be part of a fantastic team, we want to hear from you! Send your CV to ana-maria.pistea@questemployment.co.uk or call us at 02476222100.

Coffee Roasting Operative (Grade 1)

Base rate from £12.35 - £12.80 DOE & Completion of Training

Overview: We're seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Coffee Roasting Operative to join the production team. This is a hands-on role in a fast-paced environment, ideal for someone who enjoys working with precision and takes pride in producing consistently excellent products. Job Description: As a Coffee Roasting Operative, you will be responsible for roasting coffee beans to customer specifications while adhering to all relevant food safety, health and safety, and compliance standards. You will play a vital role in maintaining the high-quality standards and supporting the daily operation of the roasting facility. Core Responsibilities: Roast coffee beans to meet specific customer profiles and quality expectations. Ensure all roasting activities comply with food safety legislation and health and safety standards. Maintain records and documentation as required for compliance and traceability. Shift Patterns & Pay: All hours flexible, subject to business requirements. Monday – Friday 06:00-14:00 / 14:00-22:00 / 22:00 - 06:00 rotating ≈ 38.75 core hours per week. Base Rate - Grade 1-3 £12.35 - £12.80 per hour, Tx¼ over core hours Monday – Friday, Tx½ after core hours Saturday & Sunday Shift allowances are above the standard base rate – all grades have set values per hour. Backshift from - 18:00 - 22:00, Night shift from 22:00 - 06:00. Key Tasks: Work to the production roasting sheets to meet daily customer orders. Ensure the efficient use of materials within the production facility in line with the daily plan. Contribute to the continuous improvement of systems and ways of working to support all relevant accreditation and certifications. Work to a ‘clean as you go’ philosophy, ensuring a clean and organised, visit-ready facility at all times. Contribute to maintaining a safe working environment by adhering to health and safety procedures. Work Skills & Requirements: Physically fit with the ability to handle moderate lifting. Strong organisational skills with keen attention to detail. Ability to work independently and use own initiative. Previous Machine Operating experience in a production or food manufacturing environment is desirable but not essential. What We Offer: Full training and support A positive and inclusive working environment Opportunities for development and progression Club Quest Membership: Access a variety of health and financial wellbeing benefits Full PPE Provided: Work safely and comfortably Free Onsite Parking: Convenient access to your workplace. Weekly Pay: Enjoy pay every Friday.

Production Operative

Base rates from £13.68per hour to £14.25 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 40 hours £12.21 per hour, Over 40 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 £12.72 per hour, Over 40 hours weekly £19.08, additional £1.53 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.

Packing Operative

Base Rate - £12.21 per hour to £15.06 per hour

Overview We are looking for detail-oriented Packing Operatives to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in packing and labelling products in a fast-paced production environment. Shift Patterns All hours flexible, subject to business requirements. Monday – Friday 06:00-14:00 / 14:00-22:00 / 22:00 - 06:00 rotating ≈ 38.75 core hours per week. Competitive Pay Base Rate - £12.21 per hour, Tx¼ over core hours Monday – Friday - £15.26 per hour, Tx½ after core hours Saturday & Sunday - £18.32 per hour Backshift from - 18:00 - 22:00 shift allowance above day base rate £1.43 = £13.64 per hour, Night shift 22:00 - 06:00 shift allowance above day base rate £2.85 = £15.06 per hour Role Responsibilities Efficiently and accurately pack and label products according to company standards. Work at pace to meet production targets while ensuring high levels of quality. Maintain a clean and organized work area to uphold safety and hygiene standards. Support team members in achieving collective goals and maintaining a positive work culture. Standing or walking for long periods (depending on shifts) Pushing and pulling up to 15kg in weight / Lifting and moving products up to 15kg Lifting, bending, reaching above the head, crouching and/or stretching Qualifications Prior experience in a production environment with a focus on packing and labelling. Ability to work with precision and accuracy under time pressures. Day-to-day On a day-to-day basis, the Packing Operative will be responsible for packing & preparing products for distribution, ensuring they meet quality standards, and collaborating with colleagues to prioritize safety and productivity. Benefits Club Quest membership, giving you access to a suite of health and financial wellbeing benefits Great progression opportunities Flexible working rotas Full PPE provided Free parking Weekly pay every Friday Temporary to Permanent opportunities Friendly working environment Easily accessible site location - close to public transport

Process / Multiskilled Operator

Day base rate £12.95, Night base rate £14.79

Overview We are seeking a talented and dedicated Process/Multiskilled Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in bakery, drier, and food production, and possess strong attention to detail. As a Process/Multiskilled Operator, you will be responsible for mixing cereal products, preparing and mixing products, and must be capable of lifting up to 25kg. Shift Patterns 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 / Breaks: 3 x 20 minute paid while on 12 hours shift (Sunday is the start day of the week for payroll) Competitive Pay To first 36/48 hours base rate £12.25, Tx½ base rate over shift pattern core hours £18.38. Days including shift allowance 5.7% £0.70 = £12.95, Nights including shift allowance 20.7% £2.54 = £14.79. Role Responsibilities Mixing cereal products according to specified recipes and production schedules Preparing and mixing products in accordance with standard operating procedures Operating and monitoring industrial baking and drying equipment Ensuring strict adherence to health and safety guidelines at all times Keeping detailed records of production activities and reporting any issues to management Collaborating with team members to achieve production targets and maintain a clean and organized workspace Qualifications Previous experience in a bakery, drier, or food production environment Ability to lift up to 25kg and perform physical tasks as required Excellent attention to detail and a focus on quality Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment Understanding of food safety and hygiene standards Day-to-day On a daily basis, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring industrial baking and drying equipment, following specified recipes and production schedules to efficiently mix cereal products, and maintaining a clean and safe workspace. You will collaborate with colleagues to meet production targets and ensure the highest quality of products. Benefits Access to Club Quest membership for health and financial wellbeing perks. Opportunities for career progression. Full PPE provided (if required). Free on-site parking. Weekly pay (every Friday). A friendly and supportive work environment. Easily accessible location near public transport.

Packing Operative

Day base rate £12.91, Night base rate £14.74

Overview We are seeking a Packing Operative to join our team. As a Packing Operative, you will be responsible for efficiently and accurately packing materials onto pallets, conducting quality checks, and ensuring that all products meet the required standards. Shift Patterns 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 / Breaks: 3 x 20 minute paid while on 12 hours shift (Sunday is the start day of the week for payroll) Competitive Pay To first 36/48 hours base rate £12.21, Tx½ base rate over shift pattern core hours £18.32. Days including shift allowance 5.7% £0.70 = £12.91, Nights including shift allowance 20.7% £2.53 = £14.74. Role Responsibilities Packing materials onto pallets in a safe and efficient manner Performing quality checks to ensure products meet required standards Maintaining a clean and organized work environment Communicating any equipment malfunctions or safety concerns to the supervisor Adhering to health and safety regulations at all times Qualifications Previous experience in packing or a similar role is desirable but not essential Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a team Day-to-day Assembling packaging materials and ensuring accurate count Inspecting products to ensure they meet quality standards Using packing equipment and machinery safely and efficiently Collaborating with team members to meet production targets Benefits Access to Club Quest membership for health and financial wellbeing perks. Opportunities for career progression. Full PPE provided (if required). Free on-site parking. Weekly pay (every Friday). A friendly and supportive work environment. Easily accessible location near public transport.

Production Operative

Monday to Friday to 36.65 hours – Days & Lates Base Rates - NMW £11.12, NLW £12.21. Night Shift Including Night Shift Allowance From Base Rate - NMW £12.78, NLW £14.04.

Overview We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Production Operative to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in a production environment and possess a keen eye for detail to ensure quality and efficiency in our operations. Shift Patterns 06:00 - 14:00 14:00 - 22:00 22:00 - 06:00 Competitive Pay Days & Lates (21 yrs & over): £12.21 per hour Days & Lates (20 yrs & under): £11.12 per hour Nights (21 yrs & over): £14.04 per hour Nights (20 yrs & under): £12.78 per hour Responsibilities Efficiently and accurately pack products according to company standards Perform quality checks to ensure products meet specifications Maintain a clean and organised work environment Follow safety protocols and procedures at all times Collaborate with team members to meet production targets Flexibility to adapt to changing production needs and tasks Qualifications Proven experience working in a production environment Strong attention to detail and quality Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment Excellent communication and teamwork skills Flexibility to work in different roles within the production process Understanding of health and safety regulations Day-to-day Pack products according to production schedules Inspect products for defects and maintain quality standards Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors Adhere to safety protocols and maintain a clean work area Collaborate with team members to optimise production processes Demonstrate flexibility in carrying out various tasks as needed 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.

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