Machine Operator

Autajon Labels Royston is an award-winning label printing company, established in 1984 as Royston Labels Ltd and part of the Autajon Group since 2023. Based in Royston, near Cambridge, our team of around 75 employees produces high-end, top-quality labels for well-known clients across the Cosmetics & Toiletries, Health & Nutrition, Drinks and Pharma industries.
As a growing business, we combine traditional and digital print technologies with innovative embellishments, while making sustainability a priority throughout our manufacturing process. We are looking for a Machine Operator to join our Rewind & Finishing team and help ensure every finished reel meets our high standards for quality, presentation and customer requirements.
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Monday to Thursday: 06:00–14:00 and 14:00–22:00, rotating weekly
Friday: 06:00–12:00 and 12:00–18:00, rotating weekly
The successful candidate will report to the Finishing Supervisor and will be responsible for setting up and rewinding printed master rolls into customer-specified finished reels.
Responsibilities will include:
* Setting up, operating and monitoring rewinding equipment in accordance with job specifications.
* Monitoring finished reels using AVT camera inspection equipment to ensure labels meet the required quality standards.
* Handling rolls of labels as they come off the rewinder, packing them into boxes and stacking finished goods safely and efficiently.
* Checking label quality, identifying defects and resolving or reporting issues using the Material Defect Report.
* Quarantining defective material and communicating issues to the Team Leader.
* Following all production procedures, SOPs and quality requirements.
* Maintaining excellent standards of housekeeping and cleanliness across the work area.
* Carrying out general equipment maintenance and ensuring machinery is kept in good working order.
* Operating and cleaning the core cutting machine when required.
* Operating the Wrapeel (Rewind 4) when required.
* Operating the Domino numbering machine when required.
* Operating the folding machine/Braille maker when required.
* Working closely with colleagues and other departments to ensure orders are completed On Time In Full (OTIF).
We are looking for someone who:
* Has excellent attention to detail and takes pride in producing high-quality work.
* Can follow detailed instructions, production procedures and SOPs consistently.
* Has effective written and verbal communication skills.
* Can work confidently both independently and as part of a team.
* Maintains high standards of production housekeeping and cleanliness.
* Has basic computer literacy and is comfortable using computerised production equipment.
* Can work effectively to tight deadlines and production targets.
* Is flexible and adaptable to changing business needs.
* Takes a proactive approach to identifying and resolving quality or production issues.
* Understands the importance of quality and consistency within the label printing and packaging industry.
* Is reliable, organised and takes pride in their work.
Previous experience within a printing, manufacturing, rewinding or finishing environment would be advantageous, but full training will be provided to the right candidate.
We can offer:
No nights, no weekends and no bank holidays
37.5-hour working week, Monday to Friday
Attractive rotating shift pattern
A clean, modern factory with high standards of production and state-of-the-art printing and finishing equipment
Full training and development opportunities
Exciting career progression opportunities throughout the business
Free onsite parking
Free refreshments for all employees
Opportunity to work as part of a skilled and supportive production team
The chance to develop your career within the growing Autajon Group
We are located on the Royston Industrial Estate, SG8 5HN.
Applications are reviewed regularly, and we aim to respond within 1 week