We are currently recruiting 2 machine operatives with experience working within the wood working industry.
We are seeking skilled Machine Operators to join our bespoke kitchen manufacturing team. You will set up, operate, and maintain our high-end machinery. This role requires a sharp eye for detail to ensure premium finishes on high-end, custom furniture components.
Key Responsibilities
Setup and Calibration
- Interpret technical drawings: Read digital blueprints and custom cabinet specifications to determine cutting, routing, or edging dimensions.
- Configure machinery software: Input specific job data into Computer Numerical Control (CNC) software and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) systems.
- Calibrate precision tooling: Adjust diamond-tipped cutters, saw blades, and drill bits to exact tolerances for premium materials.
- Load material profiles: Set up edge-banders and laser-guided cutters according to specific wood, laminate, or composite thicknesses.
Production and Operation
- Execute precision cutting: Run complex nested routing programs to maximize yield from high-grade boards.
- Apply seamless edging: Monitor edge-banding machines to apply matching premium finishes to cabinet components.
- Manage multi-axis machining: Oversee 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines during detailed shaping, profiling, and drilling cycles.
- Handle premium materials: Feed and retrieve delicate gloss, matte, and solid-wood materials safely using vacuum lifting equipment.
Quality Control and Maintenance
- Perform micron-level inspections: Use digital vernier calipers and gauges to check completed pieces against strict architectural tolerances.
- Detect finish defects: Inspect surface finishes under specialized lighting for scratches, chipping, or glue-line imperfections.
- Execute routine maintenance: Clean sensors, lubricate linear guides, and change out worn tooling to prevent machine downtime.
- Troubleshoot system faults: Identify and resolve minor software errors or mechanical misalignments directly at the machine interface.
Safety and Workflow Integration
- Maintain dust extraction: Ensure local exhaust ventilation (LEV) and dust extraction systems operate continuously during machining.
- Batch and label parts: Apply barcode tracking labels to machined parts to streamline the subsequent assembly and finishing phases.
- Adhere to safety protocols: Operate heavy machinery in strict accordance with manufacturer guidelines and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
Skills and Qualifications
- Industry Knowledge: Must possess extensive knowledge and proven experience within the professional woodworking industry. A strong, practical background in bespoke kitchen manufacturing or high-end architectural cabinetry is a bonus but not necessary. Candidates must understand the handling characteristics of various premium materials, including solid timber, natural wood veneers, medium-density fibreboard (MDF), and high-pressure laminates.
- Technical Skills: Proven ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings, 3D CAD models, and detailed architectural blueprints. Must be highly proficient in creating, adapting, and working from precise cutting lists. Expert usage of traditional and digital measuring tools—such as digital vernier calipers
- Detail-Oriented: A genuine passion for achieving seamless, flawless, and premium finishes on luxury materials. The candidate must possess a sharp eye for surface quality, ensuring no chipping, scratching, breakout, or visible glue lines exist on high-gloss, ultra-matte, or pre-painted surfaces.
- Attributes: Demonstrates a strong, self-motivated work ethic and absolute reliability with attendance and deadlines. Must be highly adaptable and able to work harmoniously within a fast-paced, collaborative team environment, maintaining high productivity and safety standards under tight production schedules.
Comprehensive training will be provided for specific machinery.
What We Offer
- Financial Security: Plan for your future with our competitive Company Pension scheme.
- Exclusive Perks: Enjoy personal savings with a generous Employee Discount on our products/services.
- Stress-Free Commuting: Save time and money with Free, On-Site Parking right at the office
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £12.50-£15.51 per hour
Benefits:
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Work Location: In person
