Overview:
Process Engineer
Kinnerton Confectionery, Fakenham, Norfolk
We’re hiring two Process Engineers to join our Fakenham site, where you’ll lead improvements in equipment reliability, process performance, and product quality. This is a hands-on role focused on continuous improvement, data-driven decision making and process optimisation - not routine maintenance.
Position type: Full-time, permanent
Shift Pattern: 12 hour shifts, 06:00 - 18:00 on a 4 days on, 4 days off rotation
Pay rate: £22.94 - £23.89 (£48,000 - £50,000 annually)
Key Benefits: Paycare healthcare cash plan, 25 days holiday + bank holidays, pension & life assurance plan
Closing Date: 22/07/2026
Responsibilities:
- Spearhead and deliver continuous improvement (CI) projects to improve OEE, reduce downtime, and optimise performance
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Drive equipment reliability strategies, including improved preventative maintenance (PPM) and asset performance
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Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement long-term corrective actions
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Analyse performance data to identify trends, losses, and efficiency opportunities
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Support process development, trials, and new product introduction (NPI)
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Improve maintenance and operational standards through TPM, standardisation, and training
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Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Quality to deliver measurable improvements
Qualifications:
Essential
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Proven experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or continuous improvement roles
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Demonstrable track record of improving equipment performance, reducing downtime, or delivering measurable CI outcomes
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Strong capability in root cause analysis (RCA) and data-led problem solving
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Data-driven mindset with experience using tools such as Excel, Power BI, QAD or SAP
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Experience working with equipment reliability, performance optimisation, and preventative maintenance strategies (PPM)
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Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across teams
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High attention to detail with a proactive, improvement-focused approach
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Good understanding of health & safety and food safety standards (IOSH or equivalent)
Desirable
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Experience in high-volume manufacturing or FMCG / food production environments
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Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, RCM)
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Experience working with OEE, downtime analysis, and performance metrics
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Exposure to process trials, process development, or new product introduction (NPI)
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Experience with automated production or packaging equipment (e.g. flow wrappers)
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Engineering qualification (HNC/HND) or apprenticeship background
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Basic understanding of PLC systems and HACCP principles
Rewards Benefits:
- 23.5 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays
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4% employer and 5 % employee pension plan
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Life assurance plan x4 basic salary
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Various salary sacrifice schemes including pension payments, cycle to work and electric car (subject to meeting minimum criteria)
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Healthcare cash plan via paycare (Dental, Optical, Chiropody, Professional Therapy, Counselling) with a value over £400 each year
About Us:
Our Fakenham site operates across three key production areas - Novelty, Nut, and Moulding, each led by a Plant Manager and supported by dedicated Shift Managers working on a 4 on 4 off pattern across days and nights. The site is a 11,000m² facility producing over 8,500 tonnes of confectionery annually, including NOMO – the UK’s #1 free-from chocolate brand. With advanced technology and a nut-safe promise, we supply major retailers and co-manufacture for some of the world’s biggest confectionery brands. Every year, we produce over 5 million advent calendars and 30 million Easter eggs – making this a fast-paced, innovative environment where no two days are the same.
Application & Interview Process:
Apply via our careers portal. Successful candidates will progress through a structured interview process including site visit and technical assessment.
Kinnerton Confectionery is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know.
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