Production Operative

Production Operative

Department: Production

Reporting To: Production Supervisor / Shift Manager

Production Operative Job Purpose

To safely and efficiently manufacture, prepare, and process sheet metal components in accordance with company procedures, customer specifications, and quality standards, while supporting the timely production and delivery of products. The role operates in compliance with ISO 9001 quality requirements, SMETA ethical and labour standards, and company Health & Safety policies.

Production Operative Key Responsibilities

Production & Manufacturing

• Operate sheet metal machinery and equipment in line with training, work instructions, and safe systems of work, including but not limited to:
  • Press brake
  • Laser cutting machines
  • Punch press
  • Assembly and finishing equipment
• Carry out general production duties, including assembly, deburring, finishing, packing, loading, and handling of components as required.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, work orders (WO#), job sheets, and production documentation.
• Meet production targets while maintaining required quality standards.
• Assist in other production areas as business needs require.

Powder Coating – Hanging & Preparation

• Correctly hang sheet metal components onto the powder coating line to ensure safe transit and optimal coating coverage.
• Ensure components are securely positioned to prevent movement, damage, or coating defects.
• Check components for cleanliness and suitability prior to coating.
• Follow line speed requirements and production schedules.
• Safely remove finished coated items and transfer them to designated areas.

Laser / Punch “Shake Out” Duties

• Remove finished parts from laser‑cut or punched sheets safely and efficiently.
• Separate components from skeleton material without causing damage.
• Stack, label, and transfer components in accordance with job documentation.
• Inspect components for obvious defects before passing to the next production stage.
• Maintain safe manual handling practices to prevent cuts, strains, or injuries.

Quality Responsibilities

• Ensure all work conforms to drawings, technical specifications, and quality standards.
• Carry out in‑process inspections and record results in line with quality procedures.
• Identify, segregate, and report non‑conforming product in accordance with company procedures.
• Take care with product counts, paperwork, and traceability documentation.
• Report any defects, concerns, or deviations immediately.

Health & Safety Responsibilities

• Work in accordance with all company Health & Safety policies, procedures, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
• Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) provided.
• Conduct pre‑use equipment and tool checks and report defects immediately.
• Maintain a clean, tidy, and safe working environment.
• Follow safe manual handling procedures, particularly when handling sheet metal or coated components.
• Promptly report accidents, incidents, near misses, or hazards and understand and comply with all relevant risk assessments.

IMPORTANT: All employees are responsible for their own health and safety and for the safety of others who may be affected by their work activities.

Production Operative General Duties

Attend work reliably and punctually, ready to start work at the beginning of the shift.

Follow reasonable instructions from Supervisors and Managers.

Work overtime when reasonably requested.

Support colleagues and contribute positively to teamwork.

Carry out any other reasonable duties required to support the business.

Production Operative Skills, Experience & Attributes

Ability to read and understand engineering/technical drawings.

Ability to use basic measuring equipment (e.g. tape measure, vernier, micrometer, square).

Basic numeracy and literacy skills.

Good attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and standards accurately.

Reliable, punctual, and dependable.

Positive, flexible, and team‑focused attitude.

Willingness to learn and undertake training across different production areas.

Commitment to ethical working standards and company values.