Production Operative / Panel Assembly Technician
Location: Kane Engineering Ltd, Glenford Road, Newtownards, BT23 4AU
Hourly rate: £14.03 –Rising to £15.13 after a probation period.
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Date Posted: 06 August 2026
About Kane Engineering:
With over 55 years of industry experience, Kane Engineering Ltd. is a trusted leader in the design, manufacture, and assembly of low-voltage electrical switchboards and control panels. Our products are supplied throughout the UK and Ireland, supporting the construction industry as well as specialist sectors including telecommunications, electricity substations, and EV charging infrastructure.
As a company, we are proud of our continued growth and our commitment to investing in people. We believe in developing talent from within, providing clear career pathways for individuals who are eager to learn and build a long-term career with us. Many of our current senior managers and team leaders began their journey as apprentices with Kane Engineering, some joining us as young as 16 years old. Their success reflects the opportunities available to those who are motivated, committed, and ready to grow.
Due to our continued expansion, we are looking to recruit several motivated and enthusiastic Production Operatives/Panel Assembly Technicians to join our Production team. Reporting to the production team lead, this is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work and takes pride in producing high-quality products. Someone who is looking to develop a rewarding career within a well-established and forward-thinking LV switchgear manufacturing business.
If you are looking to join a company that values your development, supports your career ambitions, and offers genuine opportunities for progression, we'd love to hear from you.
Panel Assembly
· Assemble low-voltage switchgear, distribution boards and control panels in accordance with engineering drawings and work instructions.
· Install electrical and mechanical components, including:
o Circuit breakers (ACBs, MCCBs, MCBs)
o Contactors and relays
o Busbar systems
o Terminals
o Power supplies and control devices
· Fit and secure components within panel enclosures using appropriate tools and techniques.
Electrical Wiring
· Wire control and power circuits in accordance with electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
· Route, terminate, and label cables neatly to company standards.
· Ensure all wiring is correctly connected and securely terminated.
· Maintain high standards of workmanship and cable management.
Mechanical Assembly
· Assemble panel enclosures, mounting plates, busbars, cable containment systems, and associated hardware.
· Perform drilling, cutting, tapping, and mechanical modifications where required.
· Install doors, locks, hinges, gland plates, and other enclosure accessories.
Reading Technical Documentation
· Interpret:
o Electrical schematics
o Wiring diagrams
o General arrangement (GA) drawings
o Bills of materials (BOMs)
Quality Assurance
· Ensure products meet customer specifications and company quality standards.
· Report defects, damaged components, or discrepancies promptly.
· Complete quality inspection records and production documentation.
· Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and quality.
Health, Safety, and Housekeeping
· Follow all health and safety procedures, including safe working practices for electrical equipment.
· Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
· Maintain a clean, organised, and safe work area using 5S or similar workplace organisation principles.
· Handle tools, equipment, and materials safely and responsibly.
Teamwork and Production Support
· Work collaboratively with engineering, stores, quality, and production teams.
· Assist in meeting production schedules and delivery deadlines.
· Support training of new team members where appropriate.
· Participate in team meetings and continuous improvement activities.
Key Skills and Competencies
A successful Production Operative/Panel Assembly Technician should demonstrate:
Technical Skills
· Ability to read electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
· Experience assembling electrical control panels or switchgear.
· Competence in electrical wiring and cable termination.
· Familiarity with electrical components used in LV switchgear.
· Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and measuring equipment.
Personal Skills
· Strong attention to detail.
· Good manual dexterity.
· Excellent organisational skills.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Good communication skills.
· Problem-solving ability.
· Commitment to quality and safety.
Typical Day-to-Day Activities
· Reviewing assembly drawings and work instructions.
· Collecting components and materials from stores.
· Building panel enclosures and fitting electrical equipment.
· Wiring power and control circuits.
· Labelling cables and components.
· Inspecting completed assemblies.
· Carrying out electrical continuity and insulation tests.
· Recording completed work and reporting any issues.
· Preparing finished panels for quality inspection or dispatch.
Example Job Description Summary
The Production Operative/Panel Assembly Technician is responsible for the assembly, wiring & inspection of low-voltage switchgear, control panels, and electrical distribution equipment. Working from engineering drawings and wiring schematics, the role involves installing electrical components, assembling enclosures and ensuring all products meet customer specifications, quality standards, and relevant industry regulations. The successful candidate will contribute to efficient manufacturing operations while maintaining a strong focus on safety, workmanship, and continuous improvement.
Working Hours:
39 hours per week
· Monday to Thursday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
· Friday: 8:00am – 1:00pm
Lunch break: 1:00pm – 1:30pm (Monday to Thursday)
Salary & Benefits:
· Hourly Rate: £14.03 –Rising to £15.13 after a probation period.
· Company pension scheme
· Free on-site parking
· 29 days’ annual leave, including statutory holidays
· Opportunity for training and career development within a growing engineering company
If you are looking to begin your career in electrical engineering with a company committed to quality, innovation, and professional development, we would be delighted to hear from you. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:
Kane Engineering is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, or disability.
Pay: From £14.03 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
