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Pro­duc­tion Oper­a­tive (Butch­ery, Meat Trim­ming Experience)

Skilled Butchers & Chefs – Pork Leg Trimming
Milton Keynes | £13.50 per hour | Monday–Friday (Rotating shifts soon) | Full-time, Permanent

Do you have strong knife skills and proven experience trimming pork legs or working with red meat? Whether you’re a skilled butcher or a chef ready to put your knife skills to the test, this is your chance to join Cranswick Convenience Foods – a leading UK food producer supplying top retailers like Tesco and M&S.

You’ll be part of a high-performing team, ensuring quality, speed, and precision in preparing premium pork products for our customers.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Trim and prepare pork legs to specification using knives and saws (where applicable).

  • Deliver high yields with minimal waste while maintaining quality.

  • Keep your workstation clean and safe, following food safety standards.

  • Work efficiently to meet production targets.

  • Support wider operations, including packing, paperwork, and other associated tasks.

  • Operate effectively in a chilled environment (4–8°C).

Working Hours

  • Currently: Day shift, Monday to Friday.

  • Coming soon: Rotating shifts –
    • 6:00am – 2:00pm
    • 2:00pm – 10:00pm

  • Overtime available (paid at enhanced rates).

Progression & Pay

  • Start at £13.50 per hour.

  • Clear progression to Level 2 Operative with pay increases.

  • Fast-tracked promotion based on performance.

What We’re Looking For

  • At least 1 year’s experience in butchery or as a chef working with pork/red meat.

  • Confident with knives and trimming techniques.

  • Able to balance speed with quality.

  • Strong teamwork, communication, and timekeeping skills.

  • Comfortable working in chilled conditions (PPE provided).

  • Reliable and able to follow specifications in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join Cranswick?

  • Permanent, full-time role with real career development.

  • Free parking, free hot drinks, subsidised canteen & cycle to work scheme.

  • Company pension & long-service awards.

  • Supportive team culture with social events and recognition schemes.

  • Opportunities for training, apprenticeships, and internal promotions.

Location

Milton Keynes MK4 4AE – candidates must be able to reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting.

Requirements

  • Butchery / chef / meat trimming: 1 year minimum (required).

  • Food production: 1 year minimum (required).

  • Basic English communication skills.

  • UK work authorisation (required).

If you’re ready to take your butchery or chef skills further and join a thriving team with clear progression opportunities, apply now and grow your career with Cranswick.

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: From £13.50 per hour