Team Leader (Progression from Production Operator)

📍 Site-Based | Full-Time | Rotating Shifts

Let’s be clear from the start.

This is aTeam Leader opportunity, but you’ll begin by working1 week as a Production Operator.

Why? Because we believe leaders should understand the line properly before leading it.

If, during that first week, you demonstrate the right technical ability, pace, standards and leadership behaviours, you’ll move into theTeam Leader role at £15+ per hour.

Earned. Not assumed.

How the Progression Works

Week 1 – Production Operator

You’ll be working hands-on in production:

• Setting up, adjusting and monitoring manufacturing equipment

• Following technical specifications and process documentation

• Monitoring production parameters and acting when something drifts out of spec

• Carrying out in-process quality checks

• Completing production and compliance paperwork accurately

• Maintaining GMP, HACCP and hygiene standards

• Supporting troubleshooting with maintenance and engineering

• Keeping the line safe, clean and audit-ready

If you’re up to speed and show leadership potential, you’ll move into the Team Leader role.

Team Leader Responsibilities (Post Week 1)

Once confirmed in the role, you’ll be responsible for:

• Leading your shift to deliver safe, efficient production

• Holding food safety, hygiene and compliance standards

• Monitoring KPIs and addressing performance gaps

• Supporting and guiding operators on the floor

• Ensuring documentation is accurate and audit-ready

• Driving efficiency and reducing waste

• Communicating clearly during shift handovers

• Acting as the link between Production, QA and Maintenance

This is a hands-on leadership role, not a stand-back position.

Shift Patterns Available

🔹 3-Shift Rotation (Weekly Reverse Rotation)

• 06:00 – 14:00

• 14:00 – 22:00

• 22:00 – 06:00

Rotates weekly in reverse order: Nights → Lates → Days

🔹 24/7 Panama Shift Pattern

• 06:00 – 18:00

• 18:00 – 06:00

Rotation:
2 days on → 2 days off → 3 days on
2 days off → 2 days on → 3 days off

Pay Structure (During Initial Production Week)

3-Shift Rotation

Pre 12 Weeks (Pre AWR):

• £12.21 per hour (first 37.5 hours)

• £18.32 overtime (over 37.5 hours)

• £1.47 per hour shift allowance when working full 3-shift rotation

Post 12 Weeks (Post AWR):

• £12.97 per hour (first 40 hours)

• £19.08 overtime (over 40 hours)

• £1.56 per hour shift allowance when working full rotation

Panama Shift Pattern

Pre 12 Weeks (Pre AWR):

• £12.21 per hour (core hours)

• £18.32 overtime (over 40.25 hours 2-week average)

• £2.20 shift allowance on core hours

• Base rate including shift allowance starts at £14.41

• 1 x 30-minute unpaid break

Post 12 Weeks (Post AWR):

• £12.97 per hour (core hours)

• £19.46 overtime (over 42 hours 2-week average)

• £2.33 shift allowance

• Base rate including shift allowance starts at £15.30

• All breaks paid

Team Leader Pay

Following successful completion of the initial week and confirmation of suitability:

Team Leader pay: £15+ per hour

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in food manufacturing or FMCG

• Strong understanding of production processes and machine operation

• Knowledge of GMP and HACCP

• Calm, practical problem-solving ability

• Confidence communicating with teams

• Willingness to work rotating shifts

Desirable:

• Formal food safety qualification

• Process control experience

• Basic mechanical fault-finding skills

What You Might Not Like

Let’s be honest.

• It’s rotating shifts. If you need fixed hours, this won’t suit.

• You start on the line first. If you expect the title without proving yourself, this isn’t for you.

• It’s food production — fast-paced, hands-on and sometimes repetitive.

• Standards matter here. GMP, hygiene and paperwork aren’t optional.

• When production is busy, it’s busy. You’ll be expected to step up, not step back.

• This is floor-based leadership. If you prefer managing from a distance, it won’t fit.

If you’re someone who backs yourself, understands production properly, and wants to step into leadership the right way — this is a genuine opportunity.

If you just want the badge without the responsibility — it’s probably not for you.