Drew Forsyth & Co is a family-owned manufacturer of bespoke furniture, including luxury kitchens, bedrooms, cinema rooms and home offices.
We have supplied furniture throughout the UK for nearly 60 years. As the company continues to grow, we are looking for an experienced CNC Operative to join our machine shop and developing CNC department.
We currently operate three CNC machines, including 3-axis and nesting machinery, alongside specialist door machinery and an edgebander.
You will work alongside an experienced CNC programmer as we continue to invest in and develop this area of the business.
This role would suit someone who is confident taking responsibility for a CNC machine throughout their shift and is looking for a stable, long-term position within a growing manufacturing business.
What you will be doing
- Setting tools and changing cutters.
- Loading and running CNC programs.
- Operating CNC machinery throughout the production shift.
- Checking the quality and accuracy of machined components.
- Identifying and reporting any machining or quality issues.
- Carrying out basic machine maintenance.
- Keeping your machine and surrounding work area organised, clean and productive.
- Working alongside the CNC programmer and wider production team to keep work moving through the factory.
- Learning additional machinery and production processes as your experience develops.
What we are looking for
Ideally, you will have:
- Around 2–3+ years' CNC operating experience.
- Experience running a CNC machine independently during a production shift.
- Confidence setting tools and changing cutters.
- Experience loading and running CNC programs.
- A good understanding of quality and dimensional accuracy.
- A practical approach to problem-solving.
- Good attention to detail.
- A reliable and organised approach to your work.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a wider production team.
Woodworking CNC experience would be preferred, but it is not essential.
We would also be interested in speaking with experienced CNC operators from metal, plastics, engineering or other manufacturing environments who would like to move into high-end furniture manufacturing.
Experience with nesting CNC machinery, edgebanders or other woodworking machinery would be an advantage.
Working hours
We can offer either:
- 4-day working week – 38 hours
- 5-day working week – 40 hours
The working pattern can be discussed during the initial conversation.
What we offer
- A stable, permanent position within a growing family business.
- The option of a 4-day working week.
- The opportunity to work within a high-end bespoke furniture manufacturing environment.
- The chance to work alongside and learn from an experienced senior CNC programmer.
- Fully funded training relevant to your role and future development.
- Forklift training where required.
- The opportunity to learn additional machinery and production skills.
- Opportunities to develop your CNC knowledge and progress further within the department.
- A workplace where good ideas and suggestions are listened to.
- Long-term security within an established British manufacturer.
You can watch a short video about Drew Forsyth & Co here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbEt6rL9R30
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cnc Operator
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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!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Drew Forsyth and Co 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!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Drew Forsyth and Co
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
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✨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!
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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.
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In a full-time role, companies like Drew Forsyth and Co 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.
