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Production Operator
Honesty Goes Hand In Hand With Creativity at BASF
About BASF plc
BASF plc is a subsidiary of BASF SE, specialising in marketing a comprehensive portfolio of products across the UK. These include:
- Agricultural solutions
- Automotive refinish paints
- Acrylic monomers
- Fine chemicals
- Intermediate and speciality chemicals
- Dispersions
- Plastics
Our Widnes site houses the Centre of Excellence for Pest Control, where we supply high-quality rodenticides to the market. Established in 2009 after the acquisition of Sorex Limited, this division combines the technical expertise, product range, and skillsets of both BASF and Sorex, creating a leading force in pest control solutions.
The Role: Production Manufacturer
If you’re passionate about hands-on manufacturing and want to work in a state-of-the-art production environment, this opportunity at our Widnes site is for you. Here’s what your key responsibilities would involve:
- Striking a balance between quality and efficiency:
- Maintain safe, ethical manufacturing practices by adhering strictly to HSE regulations, completing safety training, and reporting unsafe conditions.
- Ensure high production quality through routine checks, precise data recording, and proactive corrective actions to meet tier-one quality standards.
- Operating complex machinery:
- Handle and operate intricate systems for processing powder, grain-based mixes, and liquid formulations whilst minimising wastage.
- Document every batch accurately—precision is critical in this role.
- Upholding excellence in the Production Area:
- Adhere to strict cleanliness and organisation standards to keep equipment and workflow spaces functional and compliant.
- Ensuring equipment reliability:
- Operate hand pallet trucks and forklifts safely and efficiently, including performing basic maintenance checks to prolong equipment lifespan.
- Contributing to continuous improvement:
- Engage in idea-sharing sessions and support initiatives designed to drive operational effectiveness and productivity.
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What You’d Bring to the Role
Though this isn’t a comprehensive list, the ideal candidate would ideally have:
- A Level 2 NVQ in Performing Manufacturing Operations, or an equivalent proven manufacturing skillset.
- Experience with machine operation or running processes within a production or manufacturing environment. (Note: This is highly valued, but not mandatory.)
- Manual handling and equipment movement competence (preferably holding):
- An electric hand pallet/forklift truck license; while the role is operatable without, applicants with these skills start with a small advantage.
- Strong numeracy and literacy skills, with IT proficiency to operate systems like IT databases, scanners, and tablets.
- The ability to work effectively within a fast-paced, shift-based environment (Widnes work schedule includes rotating shifts, Monday-Friday mornings and evenings, with occasional weekends AMD weekends).
Onboarding includes supervised training, so while prior experience pays off, proactive learners thrive.
Why Join BASF?: Your Benefits
Working at BASF means contributing to a meaningful mission—building a more sustainable and innovative future through diverse industries. Your work directly supports industries like agriculture, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and energy.
Total reward package includes:
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonus
- Defined contribution pension scheme for financial security
- 25 days’ annual leave, plus full bank holiday Observatory
- Company share plan—your stake in our success
- Award-winning private healthcare coverage
- Life insurance for peace of mind
- On-the-job training and vocational certification (dedicated development opportunities)
- Long-term career progression based on performance, engagement, and willingness to progress
At the heart of BASF lies a dedication to inclusivity and sustainability. We celebrate and embrace different perspectives, fostering a culture where creative ideas emerge through diversity. Our Diversity & Inclusion Strategy Action Group and our partnership with Inclusive Employers underscore this commitment.


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BASF is an equal opportunities employer. All employment decisions at BASF are made without consideration for age, gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status—or any other protected characteristic.
Location
BASF Widnes Manufacturing Plant Widnes Site, Widnes, WA8 West Cheshire
Work Schedule
Rotating shifts:
- Monday-Friday (late afternoon to evening slots, and early mornings)
- Occasional weekend work (excluding night shifts)
GRA{"holders"}, please note: This role does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants need to have the right to work in the UK from the moment of application until potential employment ends.
Closing Date & Next Steps
Applications will close: 09 July 2026
About Our UK Business
Since 1880, BASF UK has been a pillar of industry development. With plant locations ranging from Littlehampton, Dorset to the Isle of Lewis, we serve across the breadth of the UK. Our headquarters, located in Stockport, Greater Manchester, support the real estate teams for sales and services.
Our UK-wide network of manufacturing sites ensures we deliver critical raw materials to agriculture, automotive, chemicals, construction, energy, and life sciences.
Expertise isn’t just theory at BASF UK. We driven by innovation with depth. To experience our work culture and routine deviances, explore: BASF UK Innovation & Sustainability Platform.
Our company culture is built on three core values and three winning behaviors:
- Innovation (Mind-Open, Leadership & Solution Mindset)
- Collaboration (Honesty & Proven Communication, Reliability & Accountability)
- Diversity & Inclusion (Respect, Empowerment)
We don’t just set a goal—we act with excellence every day. Where will your work in manufacturing take you?
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