As a Production Line Operator, you are responsible for monitoring and adjusting the production process to ensure consistent quality and quantity, as well as performing routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment to prevent breakdowns. Your duties include feeding batches of raw materials into machinery, assembling goods on an assembly line and attaching labels and company logos to finished products. You will be expected to follow strict quality and safety protocols throughout the process to ensure that the final product meets the desired quality standards.

Main duties and responsibilities

You will be responsible for the equipment used in the manufacturing process. This will involve carrying out checks and cleaning as required and ensuring the equipment is used in accordance with training provided, the organisation’s policies and procedures and using any safety equipment or Personal Protective Equipment provided. You are responsible for ensuring that the equipment you use is maintained and can be always used/operated.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate the equipment and machinery involved in the production of whisky, including milling, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and bottling machines. monitoring the malting under direction from the technical distiller
• Measuring, weighing, and mixing ingredients. Keeping records for stock production and raw material usage. Assist with inventory management, including raw material intake, storage, and tracking.
• Maintain accurate process data/records/documentation and report any deviations from standard procedures or quality standards. Input data into computer system to record raw materials and products.
• Perform quality control tests on raw materials, intermediate products, and final products to ensure that they meet quality specifications.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of assembly and production machinery and hand-held tools, to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns. Checking machinery to ensure that it is running smoothly and reporting any problems.
• Fix minor issues that may arise with the production line and trouble-shoot when production issues occur. Carry out planned tasks in accordance with contract requirements and associated systems.
• Keeping all production areas and units, including mash tuns, stills and wash backs, clean and sterilised.
• Operate equipment safely and in accordance with all instruction and guidelines. Follow strict health and safety guidelines, policies and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.
• Package finished products in accordance with customer requirements and ensure accurate labelling and tracking of shipments. Sometimes boxing bottles manually.
• Work in the warehouse moving raw materials and full or empty casks, storing, and positioning them correctly. This may involve operating lifting equipment and forklift trucks.

Skills and experience

Skills and experience needed for a Production Line Operative include:

• Basic technical skills to operate machinery and equipment involved in the production process. Familiarity with production equipment and machinery will be an added advantage.
• Strong attention to detail and be able to follow strict protocols and procedures to ensure consistent product quality and safety.
• A good team player, able to collaborate with other members of the production team to ensure smooth operations and optimal productivity.
• Physical fitness, as the job may involve standing for long periods and performing repetitive motions.
• Good communication skills are essential to ensure clear communication between team members and with supervisors.
• Prior experience in a production environment, preferably in the food and beverage industry, will be an added advantage.
• Willing to work flexibly as different shifts and overtime may be needed to meet production targets.
• Willingness to learn and continuously improve your skills and knowledge to ensure optimal performance and productivity.

Qualifications Required

Previous experience working within a similar role is desirable as a Warehouse Operative/Production Operative would be desirable. But this is not essential as full training will usually be provided. You will need to be dexterous, physically fit, and comfortable with continually standing and moving for the duration of your shift. You should also have good timekeeping and attendance and show attention to detail in your work. In addition;

• Some subjects at National 5, including English and Maths may be preferred by employers.
• Some employers offer a Modern Apprenticeship in Spirits Operations at SCQF Level 6.
• Familiarity with production equipment and machinery.
• Ability to follow strict protocols and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet production targets.
• For some jobs a driving licence may be required.
• Flexibility to work different shifts and overtime as needed.
• Willingness to learn and continuously improve skills and knowledge.

If you are interested in becoming a Production Line Operative, the following resources may be helpful:

1. Many whisky distilleries in the UK offer apprenticeships or trainee programs that provide on-the-job training and skills development. These programs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may offer a pathway to a full-time production line operator role.
2. There are several vocational training programs in the UK that offer courses in production line operations, including those specific to the food and beverage industry. These courses typically cover topics such as production processes, equipment operation, quality control, and health and safety.
3. There are several industry associations in the UK that represent the whisky industry, such as the Scotch Whisky Association and the Whisky & Spirits Education Trust. These organizations provide information on the industry, including job opportunities and training programs.
4. Many job boards, such as Indeed and Monster, list production line operator roles in the whisky industry. These job boards can be a useful resource for finding job openings and learning about the requirements and qualifications for the role.
5. Networking with industry professionals and attending industry events can be a useful way to learn more about the whisky industry and connect with potential employers.