Howdens
General Operator (Finisher)

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General Operator (Finisher) - Normanton, West Yorkshire
Howdens Joinery are looking for a General Operator (Finisher) to join our bespoke solid surfaces manufacturing team in Normanton, West Yorkshire. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a successful and growing operation specialising in the production of high-quality solid surface worktops.
As a General Operator, you will play a key role in the manufacturing process, helping to produce bespoke products to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. Working as part of a dedicated team, you will contribute to delivering exceptional products for our customers while supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the operation.
Location
Normanton
Contract Type
Full-Time – Permanent
Shift
Monday – Thursday 5:40pm – 04:00am (40 hours per week)
Pay
£35,786.40 per annum + £4,882.80 shift allowance
What will you be doing as a General Operator (Finisher):
- Hand finishing, grinding, and polishing granite, quartz, and solid surface products to achieve a high-quality finish in line with company standards and customer expectations
- Using a range of portable grinding, sanding, and polishing tools to remove imperfections, refine edges, and create smooth, consistent surface finishes
- Interpreting technical drawings, work orders, and specifications to ensure finished products meet exact dimensions and quality requirements
- Carrying out detailed quality inspections throughout the finishing process, identifying and rectifying defects before products reach final inspection
- Operating finishing and polishing machinery safely and effectively, ensuring equipment is used correctly and maintained in good working order
- Following all health and safety procedures and safe working practices when handling materials, machinery, and hand-held equipment
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What do you need to qualify for the General Operator (Finisher):
- Experience working within a fast-paced and demanding manufacturing environment in a Finishing role would be advantageous, although full training will be provided
- The ability to work effectively to deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy
- A flexible and adaptable approach to workload, with the willingness to support different areas of the operation as required
- A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn new skills
- Good attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality products
What we can offer you:
- Competitive salary, shift allowance, and benefits package
- Pension plan with a company contribution of up to 12%
- Free on-site parking
- Free lunch at our on-site canteen
- Friendly and supportive environment offering exceptional reward and recognition
How to Apply:
We’re building a future where world-class service, innovation, and sustainability are embedded within our DNA. If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career, then we’re keen to hear from you. When you apply, you will need to attach a CV for this General Operator role.


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Please note: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
About Howdens:
Howdens Joinery is a highly successful FTSE 100 business, with more than 900 depots nationwide and more than 11,000 staff. Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we continue to experience significant growth and success. Despite our scale, Howdens remains a local business with traditional values.
There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment. That, along with a competitive salary, development opportunities, and exciting rewards, are among the reasons why our people enjoy working for Howdens – and why we have been named one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For.
Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitment@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.
Please note that candidates applying for this role must have a valid right to work in the UK, we do not offer sponsorship of employment for any depot positions at this time. We appreciate your understanding.
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