At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic machine shop team while operating advanced machinery and ensuring smooth production flow.
- Company: Curtis Furniture, a trusted manufacturer of high-quality hotel furniture in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive pay at £18.75 per hour, full-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a growing company that values teamwork and offers career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Step into a leadership role and make a real impact in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in machine shops, knowledge of CNC machines, and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 15 - 22 £ per hour.
Salary: £18.75 per hour
Full Time; Permanent. 39 Hours per week
Leeds LS10, West Yorkshire
About Curtis Furniture
Curtis Furniture is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality hotel bedroom furniture, supplying leading hotels across the UK. We’re growing quickly, investing in our people, and building a workplace where teamwork, consistency, and pride in what we produce really matter. All of our manufacturing is based at one location, meaning no site hopping – just a strong team working together every day in a well-organised, supportive environment.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Working Team Leader to join our Machine Shop team in Leeds on the late shift. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will lead by example while operating machinery and ensuring smooth coordination across production, spray shop, and dispatch. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled machinist ready to step into or continue in a leadership role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support the late shift machine shop team to achieve production targets, quality, and safety standards
- Operate and provide cover across key machinery, including:
- Beam Saw
- Edgebander
- CNC machines
- Coordinate workflow and allocate tasks effectively across the team
- Oversee production flow between machine shop, spray shop, and dispatch
- Ensure jobs are completed on time and to specification
- Support training and development of team members
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping, safety, and quality control
- Act as the main point of contact for late shift operations
Requirements
- Proven experience in a machine shop or woodworking manufacturing environment
- Working knowledge of Beam Saws, Edgebanders, and CNC machines (Weeke, Biesse, Homag, or Morbidelli preferred)
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Ability to work as a hands-on “working team leader”
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Good understanding of production workflow, spray finishing, and dispatch coordination
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and ensuring fair treatment for all applicants. If you have a flexible approach and a can do attitude please send your CV today.
Team Leader - Machine Shop employer: Curtis Furniture
At Curtis Furniture, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and collaborative employer, dedicated to the growth and development of our team members. Located in Leeds, our manufacturing facility fosters a strong sense of community, where employees can thrive in a well-organised environment without the need for site hopping. With competitive pay, a commitment to quality, and opportunities for hands-on leadership, we offer a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the furniture manufacturing industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader - Machine Shop
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Curtis Furniture. Understand their values and what makes them tick. This way, you can tailor your answers to show you're a perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership skills! Since this role is all about leading a team, think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed a group. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to showcase your hands-on leadership style.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your technical know-how! Brush up on your experience with Beam Saws, Edgebanders, and CNC machines. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in previous roles and how you can apply that knowledge at Curtis Furniture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the team or production processes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Team Leader - Machine Shop
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Team Leader role. Highlight your hands-on leadership experience and familiarity with machinery like Beam Saws and CNC machines. We want to see how you can lead our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for manufacturing and teamwork, and explain why you're the perfect fit for our late shift machine shop. We love hearing about your positive attitude and work ethic!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Did you improve production efficiency or mentor team members? We want to know how you've made a difference in your past positions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s quick and easy, and we can’t wait to see your application come through!
How to prepare for a job interview at Curtis Furniture
✨Know Your Machinery
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Beam Saws, Edgebanders, and CNC machines. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these tools, as well as any specific models you've worked with. This will show that you're not just a leader but also a skilled machinist.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Think about times when you motivated your team to meet production targets or improved workflow. This will help demonstrate your ability to lead by example and support your team effectively.
✨Understand Production Workflow
Familiarise yourself with the entire production process from machine shop to dispatch. Be ready to discuss how you would coordinate tasks and ensure smooth operations. This shows that you have a comprehensive understanding of the role and can think strategically.
✨Emphasise Safety and Quality Control
Safety and quality are paramount in manufacturing. Be prepared to talk about how you've maintained high standards in previous roles. Share specific practices you've implemented to ensure safety and quality control, which will highlight your commitment to these crucial aspects.
