Machine Operator (Log Grading Operator)

What’S In It For You

• Permanent opportunity
• Salary £30,653.87 (£13.63 ph)
• Full-time position working 43.25 hours per week
• Monday–Thursday: 07:00–16:30
• Friday: 07:00–12:15
• Early finish every Friday
• Durham location
• 26 days’ holiday plus 7 bank holidays
• Annual profit and performance-related bonus scheme
• Life assurance cover
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Pension in line with government guidelines
• Opportunity to receive further training and learn how to operate yard vehicles
• Join a production environment benefiting from continued investment

The Business

Westray Recruitment Group is seeking a Log Grading Operator to join an established manufacturing organisation on a permanent basis in the Durham area.

The business manufactures an extensive range of timber products for customers throughout the UK. Continued investment in modern, automated production equipment has enabled the organisation to significantly increase its manufacturing capacity while retaining the specialist processes required to produce bespoke products.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful North East manufacturer that is continuing to invest in its people, equipment and production facilities.

The successful candidate will operate a fast-moving log grading system that sorts timber according to its diameter and length. The position requires excellent concentration, attention to detail and a strong commitment to health and safety.

You will work as part of a seven-person team supported by a Shift Manager. Please note that this position involves working outside in all weather conditions.

The Role

• Complete and accurately record all required pre-start equipment checks
• Operate the log grading system safely and in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Monitor the grading process to ensure logs are correctly sorted by size, diameter and length
• Maintain a high level of concentration while operating fast-moving equipment
• Ensure machinery operates to the agreed standards of speed, cleanliness and quality
• Accurately input production and quality information into the company’s computer systems
• Complete quality-control checks and ensure production leaving the area meets the required specifications
• Understand how the grading scanners operate and ensure the appropriate standards are maintained
• Follow verbal and written instructions and established production processes
• Work safely and efficiently to support the achievement of daily production targets
• Complete vehicle, machinery, quality and measured-load checks as required
• Identify and report errors, deviations or equipment issues to the Shift Manager
• Liaise with the Engineering team regarding machinery breakdowns to help minimise downtime
• Ensure employees and visitors entering the log yard follow all relevant health and safety requirements
• Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment throughout the shift
• Contribute ideas and suggestions that could improve existing systems, processes and working practices
• Support management in implementing positive changes across the operation
• Undertake additional duties when reasonably required to support the needs of the business
• Participate in overtime when required in accordance with the employment contract

The Person

• Previous experience working within a manufacturing, production, timber-processing or similarly fast-paced environment
• Able to follow verbal and written instructions accurately
• Excellent concentration and attention to detail
• Comfortable working outside throughout the year in varying weather conditions
• Computer literate with accurate data-entry skills
• A valid driving licence with no more than six penalty points
• Knowledge of softwood tree species commonly found in Great Britain would be advantageous
• A chainsaw certificate of competence would be advantageous but is not essential
• An FLT certificate of competence would be advantageous but is not essential
• Willing to undertake training to operate yard vehicles if required
• Strong communication and working-relationship skills
• Able to work effectively as part of a team and promote a positive one-team approach
• Flexible and willing to support the achievement of production targets and business objectives
• Strong awareness of workplace health and safety requirements
• Able to identify problems and suggest practical improvements
• Experience of modern lean-manufacturing techniques would be advantageous
• Experience working within a business moving from reactive to proactive working practices would be beneficial

Health, Safety And Quality

• Ensure all machinery and equipment are operated in accordance with safe working procedures
• Complete documented start-of-shift checks for all relevant equipment
• Wear the correct personal protective equipment at all times
• Follow site fire procedures, COSHH requirements and machinery guarding controls
• Report all accidents, incidents and near misses promptly
• Assist with investigations when required
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness across the working area
• Ensure all products leaving the department meet the required quality specifications
• Accurately complete and record all required quality-control checks
• Maintain a consistent focus on product quality, presentation and continuous improvement

To Apply

Please send your updated CV to Harry Mann or apply directly by calling Westray Recruitment Group