Technical Operative

  • The Collective Network Limited
  • Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
  • Feb 12, 2026
Full time

Job Description


Technical Operative
Cambridgeshire
Rotating Shifts 24/7 Operation
Let's cut to it.
At The Collective Network, we don't recruit for "bums on seats". We recruit people who know their way around machinery, take pride in getting things right first time, and step up when it matters.
Right now, we're working with a well-established manufacturing operation in Cambridgeshire that's investing heavily in its people, processes, and performance. They're looking for Technical Operatives who want more than just a job - they want responsibility, progression, and the chance to make a real impact on the shop floor.
If you're technically switched on, calm under pressure, and the kind of person others naturally look to when things need sorting, keep reading.
The Role
You'll report into the Production Team Leader and play a key role in keeping production running safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
This is a rotational shift role covering:

  • 6am - 2pm
  • 2pm - 10pm
  • 10pm - 6am
    Monday to Sunday, with potential 24/7 coverage.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Stepping in for Team Leaders when required - leadership matters here
  • Leading by example on Health & Safety (your safety and everyone else's)
  • Driving productivity and ensuring KPIs are hit on time
  • Maintaining GMP standards - clean, tidy, disciplined work areas
  • Managing time, people, and daily priorities effectively
  • Ensuring product quality is right first time, every time

What We're Looking For
This role suits someone who's technically confident but also people-focused.
You'll need:

  • Strong communication skills and the confidence to work across teams
  • The ability to juggle priorities in a fast-moving environment
  • A sharp eye for detail and a logical, problem-solving mindset
  • Experience working as part of a team - not a lone wolf
  • A genuine appetite for learning, development, and progression

The Mindset That Wins Here

  • You don't shy away from challenging work
  • You take ownership - no excuses, no finger-pointing
  • You care about standards, accuracy, and doing things properly
  • You're flexible, adaptable, and bring a "can-do" attitude
  • You're comfortable handling multiple tasks and changing priorities

Technical & Leadership Skills

  • Strong understanding of equipment and machinery
  • Comfortable coaching, supporting, and developing others
  • Clear and accurate communication with peers, management, and other departments
  • Supporting audits, quality reviews, and continuous improvement activity
  • Identifying skill gaps and helping plan training to meet business needs


Interested?
If this sounds like your kind of role - or the kind of step you've been waiting for - we'd love to talk.
Apply through The Collective Network and one of our consultants will be in touch for a confidential conversation.
No fluff. No corporate waffle. Just a solid opportunity for someone who wants to be taken seriously.