About Us
Charles Farris Limited is one of the UK’s premier manufacturers of church candles, based in Mere, Wiltshire. With a proud heritage of crafting high-quality candles for churches, cathedrals, retail and wholesale customers across the country, we are renowned for the exceptional quality and consistency of everything that leaves our factory. Our candles are trusted by churches and religious communities throughout the UK, and we take immense pride in the skill and care that underpins every product we make. We are now looking for a motivated individual to join our skilled production team – someone who wants to learn a genuine craft and build a rewarding, long-term career with us.
The Role
This is a practical, production-floor role for someone who enjoys working with their hands and takes pride in doing a job well. You will begin by understudying an experienced operative in a specific candle production department, learning the processes, machinery, and quality standards that underpin that area. Over time, you will take on full responsibility for running production in that department.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career in skilled manufacturing, with a clear path to becoming the go-to expert in your production area.
Key Responsibilities
- Understudy the current operative in your assigned production department, learning all processes and procedures
- Operate production machinery safely and efficiently in line with company procedures and health & safety requirements
- Carry out routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on machinery; report faults promptly to the Factory Supervisor
- Safely lift, move, and handle raw materials, components, and finished goods in line with manual handling guidelines
- Inspect finished candles and work-in-progress to ensure they meet quality standards, identifying and reporting defects or inconsistencies
- Keep accurate records of output, materials used, and any production issues using basic computer systems or paper logs
- Maintain a clean, tidy, and safe working environment at all times
- Work towards taking full ownership of production in your department as competence and confidence grow
- Support other areas of the production floor when required
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- A practical, hands-on approach – comfortable working on a production floor
- Keen eye for detail – able to spot quality issues and maintain consistent standards
- Good numeracy – comfortable with basic counting, measuring, and record-keeping
- Physically fit and able to undertake manual handling tasks, including lifting
- Basic computer skills – able to use simple systems for logging data or checking records
- Reliable and punctual with a positive, can-do attitude
- Willingness to learn and take on increasing responsibility over time
Desirable
- Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment
- Familiarity with machinery operation or maintenance
- Health & safety awareness or relevant training (e.g. manual handling certificate)
Working Hours & Conditions
Hours: 40 hours per week – 8:30am to 5:15pm, with 45 minutes for lunch
Working pattern: Monday to Friday
Location: Mere, Wiltshire
Physical requirements: Role involves standing for extended periods, lifting, and operating machinery
PPE: Personal protective equipment will be provided
What We Offer
- Full on-the-job training and mentoring from an experienced operative
- A clear development path to take full ownership of your production department
- A friendly, supportive team environment
- 20 Days leave plus bank holidays
- Company pension scheme
Pay: £26,436.80-£28,588.56 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
Work Location: In person
