At a Glance
- Tasks: Craft precision tools and machine parts while supporting production processes.
- Company: Join Ashfield Extrusion, a stable and successful company with a collaborative team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24 days holiday, a 9-day fortnight, and competitive overtime pay.
- Other info: This is a hands-on role in a vibrant manufacturing environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic engineering team and take pride in your craftsmanship.
- Qualifications: 5+ years experience as a toolmaker or precision machinist required.
Job type: Permanent position, immediate start
Location: Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Posted: 29/7/2026
Hours: 7-30am to 4-30pm Mon to Thurs; 7-30am to 2pm every other Friday (9 day fortnight) – with some ad hoc overtime (obviously as this is a production support role)
Toolmaker - Benefits:
- 24 days holiday per year
- 9 day fortnight (37 hours per week average)
- 2 x basic annual salary death in service benefit
- Sickness insurance (subject to acceptance / conditions from insurance company) of 75% of basic pay for up to 12 months
- Weekday overtime at time + 1/3
- Saturday overtime at time + 1/2
The job:
- Manufacture precision tooling and machine parts to a high standard
- Support production with maintenance and refurbishment of running tools
- Support production with machining for manufacture / repair / refurbishment of machine parts
- Assist in troubleshooting and process problem solving
- Control sub-contract heat treatment / nitriding etc for tooling
- Control of tool stores including booking in bought in tooling
The Person:
- Must be experienced (at least 5 years in a toolmaker / precision machinist role)
- Must be time served (or modern equivalent)
- Skilled in use of: CNC and manual lathes, milling, cylindrical and surface grinders, spark eroders, polishing, bench work
- Enthusiastic engineer with a positive attitude who takes pride in their work
- Willing to learn - you are unlikely to be familiar with impact extrusion tooling
- Experience of making press tooling would be an advantage
- Health and Safety conscious
You will be joining a team of engineers that take pride in and enjoy their work – if you like a moan or don’t want to get your hands dirty, don’t apply! This is not an office job.
The Company:
Ashfield Extrusion is a successful profit making company with a very stable workforce and is a good place to work. As the core of the business is impact extrusion and technical components – pressing, trimming, machining, degreasing, coating and printing – we have a lot of variety and, being an unusual and technically difficult process, we are secure in our markets. We have also been growing steadily for a number of years.
Size of the business: approx. 110 people; turnover around £12M
If you have a look on the website you will get a good idea of the range of processes and equipment and the working environment.
Please include a covering email – if you auto apply you won’t get a reply. NO AGENCIES.
Toolmaker Precision Machinist in Kirkby in Ashfield employer: Ashfield Extrusion
Ashfield Extrusion is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and progression. With a structured 9-day fortnight schedule, competitive benefits, and opportunities for overtime, this role in Kirkby-in-Ashfield allows you to thrive in a hands-on environment while focusing on your career growth in electrical and mechanical systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Toolmaker Precision Machinist in Kirkby in Ashfield
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Toolmaker Precision Machinist in Kirkby in Ashfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Ashfield Extrusion's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Ashfield Extrusion. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashfield Extrusion
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Ashfield Extrusion.
