Die-prep operator

About the Role

At DS Smith, we're redefining packaging for a changing world through innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. We're looking for a Die-Prep & Machine Operator to join our Ely site and play a vital role in ensuring our manufacturing operation runs safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

This is a hands-on role that combines tooling preparation, machine operation, quality control, and continuous improvement. Working as part of a high-performing production team, you'll be responsible for preparing dies and tooling for scheduled production, setting up and operating machinery, supporting machine changeovers, and ensuring our customers receive products that meet our exacting standards.

Safety is our number one priority. You'll be expected to follow all site procedures and Safe Systems of Work, proactively identify hazards, and contribute to maintaining a safe and productive working environment for both yourself and your colleagues.

If you're someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, takes pride in producing quality work, and wants to be part of a team committed to continuous improvement, we'd love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

As a Die-Prep & Machine Operator, you will:

• Prepare dies, tooling, and materials in line with production schedules
• Set up and operate manufacturing machinery safely and efficiently
• Carry out quality inspections and record results where required
• Support machine changeovers and production start-ups
• Ensure production, quality, and waste-reduction targets are achieved
• Identify and report machine faults, defects, and safety concerns promptly
• Assist with routine machine maintenance and cleaning activities
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards and a safe working environment
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across production and support teams
• Contribute ideas and support continuous improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence

About You

We're looking for a dependable and motivated individual with a strong work ethic and a commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork. Whether you're an experienced machine operator or looking to further develop your manufacturing career, you'll bring a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Essential Requirements

• Strong commitment to health, safety, and safe working practices
• Self-motivated with a proactive and enthusiastic approach
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Able to work effectively as part of a team
• High attention to detail and quality standards
• Ability to follow procedures, work instructions, and manufacturing processes
• Flexible approach with a willingness to work in a multi-skilled environment
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage priorities effectively
• Open to feedback and continuous learning
• Basic computer skills

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience within a manufacturing, production, packaging, or machine operating environment
• Experience with machine set-up, tooling preparation, or die preparation processes
• Forklift Truck Licence (advantageous but not essential)

Benefits

Additional benefits include:

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Income protection
• Employee assistance program
• Cycle to work scheme
• Shopping discounts
• On site parking

Location: Ely, Cambridge

Working Pattern:  Night Shift - Sunday to Thursday - 22:00 - 06:00

Flexibility may be required to support operational and business needs. Please note that training and onboarding activities may occasionally take place during day shift hours.

About us

We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world-leading organisation and do your best work with us!

Fair recruitment at DS Smith

To fulfil our purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, we aim to build a diverse, motivated, and engaged workforce. Our goal is to create a culture of inclusion where everyone is treated fairly, differences are valued, and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria