Fabrics - Production - Process Operative

Job TITLE – Process Operative

Reports to – Preparation & Finishing Supervisor/Manager

Location – Standfast & Barracks

Department – Manufacturing / Production

Scope of job - To carry out preparation and finishing tasks within the textiles production process, ensuring fabric is processed to specification, machinery is operated safely, and product quality is consistently maintained. The role supports an efficient workflow from raw fabric preparation through to final finished materials.

Purpose - To operate preparation and finishing machinery and equipment safely and effectively, ensuring that all products meet quality standards and production requirements. This includes supporting the smooth running of the factory by maintaining cleanliness, following procedures, and contributing to a safe working environment.

Responsibilities

Operational Duties

• Operate machinery and equipment across preparation and finishing processes (e.g., plaitering, singeing, scouring, bleaching, hot washing, stentering, steaming, baking, calendaring and shrinking).
• Load, unload, and handle fabric in line with safe working practices.
• Follow production schedules and instructions provided by the supervisor or team leader.
• Carry out routine machine checks, basic adjustments, and report faults promptly.
• Ensure accurate labelling, documentation, and movement of fabric throughout production stages.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of work areas.

Quality Assurance

• Perform visual and manual inspections to ensure fabric meets quality standards at each stage.
• Identify defects or inconsistencies and report them to the supervisor.
• Follow specifications for each machines SOP’s and PCS’s.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Follow all health and safety rules, including PPE, manual handling, and safe machine operation.
• Comply with COSHH procedures when handling chemicals or working in preparation areas.
• Report hazards, incidents, or near misses immediately.

Teamwork & Communication

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, supervisors, and maintenance teams.
• Participate in shift handovers and communicate key updates effectively.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and training activities.

Measures of success

• Consistent achievement of production output targets.
• High accuracy and minimal rework due to quality issues.
• Safe working practices with no preventable incidents.
• Positive teamwork and effective communication within the department.

Connecting with others

• Works closely with Preparation & Finishing Supervisor and other factory operatives.
• Collaborates with Quality Control, Maintenance, and Production Planning teams.
• Engages constructively with colleagues to maintain efficient production flow.

Qualification

• No formal qualifications required; training will be provided.
• NVQ Level 2 in Manufacturing or similar (desirable but not essential).

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Experience in a textiles, manufacturing, or industrial environment (preferred).
• Ability to safely operate machinery (training provided).
• Good attention to detail and ability to spot defects.
• Basic numeracy and literacy for recording production information.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn new skills
• Interest in learning multiple machines within production and becoming multi-skilled.

Behaviours

• Safety-focused with a responsible approach to work.
• Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to a team environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and diligent.
• Takes pride in delivering high-quality output.
• Adaptable and open to learning.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the post holder. It is not exhaustive and may be amended to meet the changing needs of the business.

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