Job Purpose
To perform skilled operations in the processing of lamb livestock, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, food safety, and carcass quality are maintained at all times. This role requires strict adherence to operating procedures, HACCP guidelines, and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) regulations to support efficient and safe abattoir operations.
Key Responsibilities
Operational \& Processing Duties
- Carry out all stages of the slaughter process for lamb, including stunning, sticking, bleeding, flaying, and evisceration, in accordance with standard operating procedures.
- Ensure humane handling of all livestock in the lairage and stunning areas, strictly complying with the Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (WATOK) regulations.
- Dress and prepare carcasses to exact company and customer specifications, minimising waste and preventing contamination.
- Maintain the sharpness, cleanliness, and safe storage of all personal knives and processing equipment.
- Operate abattoir machinery and hoists safely and efficiently.
Quality \& Compliance
- Work alongside Food Standards Scotland (FSS) meat inspectors and official veterinarians, assisting them with carcass inspections when required.
- Adhere strictly to all hygiene, sanitation, and cross-contamination protocols.
- Identify and immediately report any welfare issues, equipment malfunctions, or quality defects to the line manager.
- Comply with all health and safety regulations, ensuring correct use of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including chainmail, hard hats, aprons, and safety boots.
Qualifications \& Requirements
- Licensing: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a valid Certificate of Competence (CoC) for the handling and stunning of animals.
- Experience: Proven experience in a high-volume red meat abattoir environment is highly preferred. Trainees demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn may be considered.
- Technical Skills: High level of knife skills and familiarity with abattoir processing equipment.
- Knowledge: Strong understanding of HACCP, animal welfare standards, and UK food safety legislation.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, stand for extended periods, and handle heavy lifting in a fast-paced, temperature-controlled environment.
- Attitude: Reliable, punctual, and capable of working effectively both independently and as part of a production team.
Working Conditions
- Fast-paced, high-volume production environment.
- Exposure to cold, damp, and loud working conditions (appropriate PPE provided).
- Early morning starts and potential for shift work depending on seasonal production volumes.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate / salary (based on skill level and experience).
- Company pension scheme.
- On-site parking.
- Comprehensive ongoing training and development.
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
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