Machine Operative

Cogent Staffing are recruiting on behalf of our Leeds based client for *permanent* Machine Operators. This role sits within the finishing department, responsible for all processes that take place after printing and before products are dispatched to customers. In label and flexible packaging production, this includes critical stages such as slitting, rewinding, inspection, sequential numbering, packaging, and quality control.

You will play a key role in ensuring all printed materials meet exact customer specifications and quality standards prior to shipment.

Salary & Shifts

• Minimum starting salary: £26,578.78 per year
• Starting rate is dependent on previous experience
• Overtime opportunities available (including weekends)

This role operates on a 3-shift rotating system:

Early Shift – 37.5 hours per week
Monday to Thursday: 6:00am – 2:00pm
Friday: 6:00am – 12:45pm

Late Shift – 37.5 hours per week
Monday to Thursday: 2:00pm – 10:00pm
Friday: 12:45pm – 7:30pm

Night Shift – 38.75 hours per week
Sunday to Thursday: 10:00pm – 6:00am

Job Purpose

As an Inspection Rewind Operative, you will:

• Perform final quality control checks on printed rolls
• Operate Elite Multiplex finishing machines fitted with AVT 100% inspection systems
• Remove waste and faults identified during the printing process
• Prepare finished reels in line with customer packing specifications
• Ensure all products meet OPM’s ISO and GMP standards

Please note: This role involves the use of strobe lighting. Individuals sensitive to this should consider this before applying.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurately interpret and complete OPM job tickets
• Carry out inspection, slitting, and rewinding to finishing specifications
• Operate AVT 100% inspection systems and sequential numbering software
• Identify and remove non-conforming or faulty product
• Set blades, tensions, counters, and core sizes accurately
• Package finished reels correctly for dispatch, ensuring accurate labelling
• Complete all documentation to ISO standards
• Maintain a clean and organised working environment
• Carry out daily safety checks on machinery and guards
• Maintain blades and calibrate machines
• Cut cores using Parkland TC10 160 Core Cutter
• Alert management to low stock levels (cores, tapes, etc.)
• Check and sign off first-off reels from other operators
• Work to strict deadlines while maintaining high quality standards
• Support team members and provide holiday cover where required

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience in operating machinery
• Strong understanding of quality control processes
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Experience operating inspection camera systems (AVT preferred)
• Experience with sequential numbering software
• Basic Microsoft Office skills
• Experience using Tharstern (desirable)
• Forklift licence (training can be provided after 3 months)
• Ability to work accurately under pressure

Personal Attributes

• Strong attention to detail
• Professional and proactive attitude
• Team player with good interpersonal skills
• Commitment to health & safety and GMP standards
• Reliable, punctual and well-presented

At Cogent Staffing, we are committed to ethical recruitment practices and fostering an inclusive workplace. We actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, gender, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diversity enriches our teams and enhances our ability to serve our clients effectively.

We ensure that our recruitment processes are fair, transparent, and free from bias, promoting equal opportunities for all applicants.