Production Operative

Based at our contemporary head office and distribution centre on the outskirts of Preston, James Hall & Co. Ltd. have been established for over 150 years proudly serving communities across the north of England as supplier and distributor to over 450 SPAR stores.

We are proud to be one of the biggest employers in Lancashire with over 4000 colleagues who represent our core values of passion, enterprise, and family every single day.

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours of work: 38 hours per week - Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.15pm (hours maybe subject to change)

Location: James Hall & Co. Ltd, SPAR Distribution Centre, Bowland View, Preston, PR2 5QT

Payrate: £ y+)

About the Role

We have an opportunity within our Cooked Meat High-Risk Department here at James Hall & Co. This is a key role where you'll help ensure our cooked meat products are prepared, packed, and labelled to the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and food safety.

Here's What You Can Expect to be Doing

• Operating slicing, packing, and labelling machinery for cooked meat products.
• Following strict hygiene and food safety procedures at all times.
• Checking product quality and reporting any issues immediately.
• Completing accurate production records for full traceability.
• Cleaning and sanitising work areas and equipment regularly.
• Wearing the correct PPE and following all health and safety guidelines.
• Assisting with stock control and correct storage of both raw and cooked products.
• Working as part of a team to meet daily production targets and deadlines.

A Few Things About You

• Food Safety Awareness – understanding of hygiene standards within a high-risk food area.
• Attention to Detail – ability to spot and report quality issues.
• Physically Fit – comfortable working in a chilled environment and performing repetitive tasks.
• Good Communication – able to work well with your team and follow instructions clearly.
• Problem-Solving Skills – confident in responding to operational issues and escalating when needed.
• Basic Numeracy & Literacy – for accurate record keeping and understanding written instructions.
• Team Player – positive attitude and willingness to support others in a fast-paced environment.

It's a Bonus If You Have:

• Previous experience working in a high-risk food production area.
• Knowledge of HACCP principles or food safety certifications.

Why Join Us?

James Hall & Co. Ltd. have one simple vison: to still be in business in another 50 years

To make this vision possible we need the best talent to join us on our journey. We are a family company and believe that if we look after our people, they will look after us.

Loyalty Pay - Celebrate your work anniversary with a little extra You'll earn an additional £0.25 per hour over the financial year, with the hourly amount increasing the longer you stay with us. Your total is paid as a lump sum in the month following your anniversary.

20% Staff Discount - Enjoy 20% off your shopping in our company-owned SPAR stores — perfect for those everyday essentials and treats.

Annual Leave- Start with a generous 30 days of annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays. Entitlement increases with length of service, rewarding your continued commitment.

Health & Wellbeing - All colleagues can access our on-site registered nurses and physiotherapist at Bowland View for confidential support. We also run a year-round programme of health and wellbeing initiatives covering physical, mental, and lifestyle topics.

Company Sick Pay - We offer a Company Sick Pay scheme to support you during periods of ill health, providing peace of mind when you need it most.

Pension & Life Insurance - You will be enrolled into the Nest pension scheme. After two years of service, you will also receive life insurance cover, offering added security for you and your loved ones.

Free Onsite Parking - All colleagues have access to free onsite parking, making your commute more convenient and cost-effective.

Learning & Development - Whether you're looking to build your career or gain new skills, our in-house team will support you with fully funded, accredited training and industry-recognised qualifications.

Grocery Aid Support - Access free, confidential, 24/7 support through Grocery Aid — offering expert advice and help on everything from mental health and financial concerns to legal issues and family support.

For more information about us and the benefits we offer, please head over to our careers page.

Please note if we receive a high number of applicants, we may close the advert early. We advise interested candidates to submit their applications promptly to avoid disappointment.