Job Specification: Production Operator - Ink Manufacturing

Location: Harlow
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Company

A leading ink manufacturer based in Harlow, specialising in high-quality formulations for a range of industrial and commercial applications. The business is growing and is looking to add a conscientious and process-driven Production Operator to its manufacturing team.

Role Overview

The Production Operator will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and accurate manufacture of ink batches according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This includes weighing raw materials, operating mixing/blending equipment, conducting in-process QC checks, and ensuring products meet the required specifications before release.

Key ResponsibilitiesProduction & Manufacturing

• Prepare, weigh, and measure raw materials according to batch sheets and SOPs.
• Operate mixers, mills, dispersers, and associated production machinery.
• Follow detailed manufacturing instructions to produce consistent, high-quality ink batches.
• Maintain accurate batch records and production documentation.

Quality Control & Testing

• Perform in-process QC tests (e.g., viscosity, colour, density) using standard ink testing equipment.
• Make minor batch adjustments based on QC results to achieve final product specifications.
• Work closely with the QC/Technical team to resolve any quality deviations.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Adhere strictly to company H&S procedures, COSHH guidelines, and safe chemical handling practices.
• Maintain a clean, organised production area following GMP-like standards.
• Report any equipment faults or safety concerns immediately.

General Duties

• Assist with stock control of raw materials and finished goods.
• Support maintenance of production equipment (basic cleaning and upkeep).
• Contribute to continuous improvement activities across production processes.

Skills & Experience RequiredEssential

• Previous experience in a manufacturing, chemical, ink, coatings, or materials-processing environment.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and technical instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in weighing and documentation.
• Basic understanding of QC testing or laboratory measurement techniques.
• Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling tasks.

Desirable

• Experience in ink manufacturing (liquid, paste, water-based, UV, solvent-based, etc.).
• Forklift licence (counterbalance or reach).
• Familiarity with batch control systems or ERP manufacturing modules.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, punctual, and safety-conscious.
• Team player with a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
• Willingness to learn and develop technical skills in a specialist industry.

Benefits

• Competitive salary (£26-35k DOE)
• Training and progression opportunities
• Company pension
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Overtime opportunities (if offered by the company)

Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.