Elevate Your Career: Graduate Trainee – Process improvement!

Are you a recent graduate or finishing your degree this year and eager to launch your career in a dynamic manufacturing setting? Northwood is currently seeking a motivated Graduate Trainee – Process improvement to join our successful, award-winning team at our Stockport (SK12) site. This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary of £28,000 – £33,000 a year and provides a unique opportunity to support high-impact projects focused on efficiency, innovation, and operational excellence. Indeed, we are looking for ambitious individuals who have a passion for optimization and want to grow alongside a market-leading partner in the tissue industry.

About Northwood

Northwood is a family-owned group of associated companies specializing in the manufacturing, supply, and transportation of paper hygiene products. Notably, we are one of the few fully vertically integrated companies in the UK market. We manage every stage of the supply chain—from raw material supply and tissue manufacturing to end-user product converting and logistics. Furthermore, with over 800 colleagues across 11 sites in the UK and Spain, we pride ourselves on excelling in product quality and market-leading service.

Your Journey as a Process Specialist

In this hands-on role, you will work closely with experienced engineers and production leaders. You will learn our operations from the ground up while delivering initiatives that drive real change. For instance, your core duties will include:

• Process Analysis: You will assist in the detailed analysis and optimization of our various manufacturing processes.

• Project Support: You will support the implementation of specific process improvement initiatives across the site.

• Performance Monitoring: You will monitor and report on critical production efficiency and quality metrics.

• Problem Solving: You will contribute to active problem-solving sessions aimed at reducing waste, downtime, and operational costs.

• Collaboration: You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and quality assurance, to achieve shared goals.

What You’ll Bring to the Team

We welcome enthusiastic and driven individuals who are ready to make a tangible impact. Specifically, we are looking for:

• Academic Background: A degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline. Crucially, a 2.1 or a First Class degree is required for this role.

• Analytical Mindset: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to navigate complex manufacturing challenges.

• Communication: Excellent communication and teamwork abilities to effectively share insights with diverse teams.

• Proactive Attitude: A willingness to take on new challenges and a proactive approach to learning.

• Industry Awareness: Knowledge of manufacturing or process environments is preferred, however, this is not strictly essential as we provide training.

Why Join Us?

This position offers more than just a job; it provides a foundation for a long-term career. Specifically, you will enjoy:

• Competitive Pay: A starting salary between £28,000 and £33,000 per year.

• Professional Development: Real-world exposure to all aspects of tissue production and supply chain management.

• Inclusive Culture: Join a workplace that celebrates diversity and encourages every individual to express their opinions.

• Stability: A permanent, full-time contract with a company that is a recognized leader in sustainable production.

Commitment to Diversity

At Northwood, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and respected. We strive to promote a workplace that celebrates unique perspectives and provides equal opportunities for all. Therefore, we encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Ready to kick-start your professional life? Apply now and become our next Graduate Trainee – Process improvement!