Food Production

Food Production

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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.

Check out our branches

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of food production jobs do you offer?

We recruit for a variety of roles within food production, including positions for production operatives, packaging operatives, machine operators, supervisors and quality control inspectors.

Do you recruit for seasonal food production jobs?

Yes, we often have opportunities for seasonal food production roles, particularly during peak times in the food industry. These can range from temporary roles during holiday seasons to positions needed for large-scale production runs.

What are the typical working hours for food production roles?

Working hours vary depending on the specific role and employer. We offer day shifts, night shifts as well as part-time and full-time opportunities.

Is experience required to apply for food production jobs?

While previous experience in food production is an advantage, many of our clients are open to candidates who are willing to learn. We offer opportunities for entry-level roles as well as more experienced positions within the sector.

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  • Quote

    ​We’ve used Quest to find us suitable staff for our Ecommerce office for the past 18th months and they’ve come up trumps for every post we’ve had to fill. Each time, they found us suitable, hard-working, reliable candidates that are now valuable members of the team. Mardi and Kristina have both been fantastic in knowing just who would fit in with this small, but extremely busy office, and I would most certainly use them for all my recruitment needs.

    Client
    Client Bedford
  • Quote

    ​We have been working with Quest Employment over many years.During this time, Quest have worked with us to supply reliable staff that meet our business requirements.Quest Employment continues to work closely with us providing a great service, with clear communication and we have the confidence in Quest Employment to continue to provide our staff needs year after year.They are a professional team and available out of hours should the need arise.I strongly recommend using the service that Quest Employment provide in all your labour requirements.

    Client
    Client Bedford
Your Recruitment Team
Joanna Brzezinska

Joanna Brzezinska

Senior Branch Manager

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Jobs in Food Production

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Featured Job
Machine Operator
Northampton
£13.85 per hour
​Job Title: Packing Machine Operator Location: Brackmills, Northampton, NN4 Salary: £13.85 per hour Hours: Monday to Friday – 14:45 to 22:45 Job Type: Full-time, Temp-to-Perm Recruiter: Quest Employment Northampton  Contact: Jakub Job Description Quest Employment is currently recruiting for Packing Machine Operators to work in ahigh-speed production environment in Brackmills, Northampton. You’ll be part of a well-established team producing seasoning and spice blends used by some of the UK’s biggest food brands and retailers. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with the right experience and transferable skills to join a fast-paced, clean, and well-organised food manufacturing site. Key Responsibilities Operate and monitor automated high-speed packing machines Ensure packaging lines run smoothly, efficiently, and safely Load materials and carry out basic line changeovers and adjustments Perform visual and quality checks of packed goods Record production data and report any machine faults Work collaboratively with line leaders and other team members Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety Ideal Candidate Physically fit and comfortable with an active, hands-on role Previous experience as a machine operator, packer, or in fast-paced food production Familiarity with packing lines, food hygiene, or FMCG environments is a strong advantage Good attention to detail and ability to follow instructions Reliable, punctual, and a team player with a strong work ethic What’s on Offer Competitive pay:£13.85 per hour Full-time, ongoing work with temp-to-perm opportunities Weekly pay via Quest Employment Supportive team environment and on-site training Clean, modern production facility in Brackmills How to Apply Submit your CV to be considered for this role. For more information, call Jakub Quest Employment Northampton. Only candidates with the right to work in the UK and relevant experience will be considered. ​
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Featured Job
Production Operator
Bedford
26951.00
Job Opportunity: Production Operator (Food Manufacturing) Salary: £26,951 + Shift Allowance An established and growing food manufacturing facility is currently seeking a Production Operator to join its operations team. The successful candidate will be responsible for operating plant machinery efficiently and safely to maintain high product quality in line with food safety standards. Primary Objective: Operate plant machinery and equipment to produce food products efficiently, while maintaining strict adherence to safety, hygiene, and quality standards. Key Responsibilities: Operate and monitor machinery to ensure maximum efficiency and product quality. Diagnose process and equipment faults quickly and effectively. Perform machine setup and pre-start checks, including HACCP and magnet checks. Maintain a clean and hygienic work environment in line with food safety regulations. Meet daily production targets, throughput, and yield goals. Maintain high standards of health and safety and report any concerns to the line manager. Understand and follow all production processes and procedures. Carry out other duties as required to support business operations. Skills and Attributes: Reliable and target-driven with strong attention to detail. Experience in a process or production environment is desirable. Physically fit and comfortable working at height and across multiple floors. Proactive with the ability to use initiative and solve problems. Willingness to learn and grow within the company. Brings forward ideas to improve efficiency and processes. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual looking to be part of a fast-paced, supportive, and safety-conscious team in the food production industry.
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Featured Job
Hygiene Operative
Bedford
26667.00
Hygiene Operative – Manufacturing Environment Primary Objective: To maintain a high standard of cleanliness across mill equipment and facilities, ensuring hygiene and safety protocols are strictly adhered to. Salary: £26,667 + Shift Allowance Mon- Fri 6am-2pm Key Responsibilities: Operate in a safe and responsible manner, ensuring no risk to personal or team safety during hygiene tasks. Safely isolate and lock off machinery before beginning cleaning procedures. Carry out cleaning duties in line with cleaning schedules, standard operating procedures, and verbal instructions. Follow both written and verbal instructions with accuracy and attention to detail. Promptly identify and report any safety hazards, equipment faults, or hygiene risks—particularly those involving food safety, pest control, or environmental dust. Report signs of pest activity, structural proofing issues, or any signs of foreign body or cross-contamination risks. Dismantle, clean, and reassemble equipment as per procedure or instruction, ensuring all components are handled carefully and stored correctly. Ensure all cleaning is completed to the required standard within set timeframes; work may be subject to quality inspections. Maintain respect for other working areas and adhere to good housekeeping practices. Handle approved chemicals safely, ensuring proper PPE is used and any potential exposure risks are minimized. Use, clean, and store cleaning equipment, utensils, and documentation responsibly and return them to designated storage points after use. Maintain clear communication with supervisors regarding any health & safety concerns or operational issues. Perform additional hygiene or operational duties as required by the business. Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role, ideally within a food production or processing environment. Level 2 Food Safety / HACCP certification. COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) trained. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Excellent timekeeping and reliability. High attention to detail and cleanliness standards. Ability to work independently or collaboratively as part of a team. Organised and proactive approach to work. Strong understanding of chemical safety and warning symbols.
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Featured Job
Hygiene Operative
Bedford
Hygiene Operative – Manufacturing Environment Primary Objective: To maintain a high standard of cleanliness across mill equipment and facilities, ensuring hygiene and safety protocols are strictly adhered to. Salary: £25,397 + Shift Allowance Mon-Fri 6am-2pm Key Responsibilities: Operate in a safe and responsible manner, ensuring no risk to personal or team safety during hygiene tasks. Safely isolate and lock off machinery before beginning cleaning procedures. Carry out cleaning duties in line with cleaning schedules, standard operating procedures, and verbal instructions. Follow both written and verbal instructions with accuracy and attention to detail. Promptly identify and report any safety hazards, equipment faults, or hygiene risks—particularly those involving food safety, pest control, or environmental dust. Report signs of pest activity, structural proofing issues, or any signs of foreign body or cross-contamination risks. Dismantle, clean, and reassemble equipment as per procedure or instruction, ensuring all components are handled carefully and stored correctly. Ensure all cleaning is completed to the required standard within set timeframes; work may be subject to quality inspections. Maintain respect for other working areas and adhere to good housekeeping practices. Handle approved chemicals safely, ensuring proper PPE is used and any potential exposure risks are minimized. Use, clean, and store cleaning equipment, utensils, and documentation responsibly and return them to designated storage points after use. Maintain clear communication with supervisors regarding any health & safety concerns or operational issues. Perform additional hygiene or operational duties as required by the business. Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role, ideally within a food production or processing environment. Level 2 Food Safety / HACCP certification. COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) trained. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Excellent timekeeping and reliability. High attention to detail and cleanliness standards. Ability to work independently or collaboratively as part of a team. Organised and proactive approach to work. Strong understanding of chemical safety and warning symbols.
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Featured Job
FLT Driver (Counterbalance)
Bedford
Job Opportunity: Forklift and Packing Operative Salary: £28,461 4 on 4 off shift pattern (days + nights) A well-established and fast-paced manufacturing and logistics operation is seeking a dedicated Forklift and Packing Operative to join its team. The successful candidate will support forklift operations and assist with packing tasks as required, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and outstanding customer service throughout the shift. Primary Objective: To assist in all aspects of forklift operations and packaging, ensuring products are moved, stored, and maintained safely and efficiently in accordance with company standards and Health & Safety regulations. Key Responsibilities: Operate forklift to move completed pallets and load trucks as necessary. Maintain accurate packaging processes, following established codes and formats. Conduct basic diagnostics and report faults on packaging machinery. Meet daily production targets while upholding quality and safety standards. Keep all working areas clean, safe, and hygienic at all times. Perform stitcher checks and ensure traceability using scanning systems. Label and wrap completed pallets. Support the packing line as needed. Ensure all products are correctly packed, labeled, and formatted for delivery. Ensure all packaging is secure and meets customer requirements. Comply with all Health & Safety procedures and report any concerns to management. Carry out additional duties as required by the business. Qualifications: Valid forklift license is essential Skills and Attributes: High attention to detail and accuracy. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to build positive working relationships. Competent in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Committed to professionalism and treating others with respect. Customer-focused approach to both internal and external stakeholders. If you are a reliable, detail-oriented individual with a strong work ethic and the required forklift certification, we would love to hear from you.
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Featured Job
Coffee Roasting Operative (Grade 1)
Peterborough
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.
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Featured Job
Production Operative
Peterborough
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.
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Featured Job
Process / Multiskilled Operator
Peterborough
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.
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Featured Job
Packing Operative
Peterborough
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.
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Featured Job
Production Operative
March
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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