Manual Machinist
Location: Maidstone, Kent
Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 DOE + Overtime Available at enhanced rate
Hours: Monday to Friday Flexible Start & Finish Times Early Finish Friday
Join a Growing Engineering Business Where Your Skills Matter
We're looking for an experienced Manual Machinist to join a well-established and growing engineering manufacturer in Maidstone.
This is a genuinely varied workshop position offering the opportunity to utilise your machining expertise while working across manufacturing, assembly and specialist engineering projects. Unlike traditional machine shop roles, you'll be involved in the complete production process, giving you plenty of variety and the opportunity to further develop your engineering skillset.
This position would suit a skilled machinist who takes pride in producing quality work, enjoys problem-solving and is looking to become part of a close-knit team where their contribution is genuinely valued.
The Role
Working within a busy engineering workshop, you'll be responsible for producing precision components using manual machining equipment, whilst supporting wider manufacturing and assembly activities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Operating manual lathes and milling machines to produce high-quality components
- Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications
- Setting machines and selecting appropriate tooling for machining operations
- Manufacturing components to required tolerances and quality standards
- Using hand tools and workshop equipment to support production activities
- Carrying out assembly and finishing work on specialist engineered products
- Inspecting completed work using measuring equipment and quality control processes
- Supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the workshop
- Maintaining a safe, organised and efficient working environment
What We're Looking For
To be successful in this role, you'll ideally have:
- Previous experience operating both manual lathes and milling machines
- Strong engineering workshop or manufacturing experience
- Ability to read and work from engineering drawings
- Knowledge of machining techniques, tooling and workshop best practice
- Experience using measuring equipment such as verniers, micrometers and gauges
- A strong eye for quality and attention to detail
- A proactive and hands-on approach to work
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team
Desirable Skills
- Welding or fabrication experience
- Mechanical engineering qualification (Apprenticeship, City & Guilds, NVQ or equivalent)
- Experience working within low-volume or bespoke manufacturing
- Assembly or fitting experience
What's In It For You?
- Salary of £35,000 - £40,000 DOE
- Overtime opportunities available at enhanced rate
- Flexible working hours
- Early finish every Friday
- Stable, long-term employment with a growing business
- Varied and interesting engineering work
- Opportunity to broaden your technical skills
- Supportive and experienced team environment
- Genuine opportunities for progression as the business continues to expand
The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Manual Machinist in Chatham employer: Adecco
Our client in Worthing is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and individual contributions. With competitive pay and flexible hours, employees enjoy a balanced work-life dynamic while having access to growth opportunities within the manufacturing sector. This role as a Kitting Operative not only provides meaningful work but also allows you to be part of a respected organisation committed to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manual Machinist in Chatham
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Adecco, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Adecco specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Adecco, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Adecco value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
