At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and optimise manufacturing designs using CAD and CNC programming.
- Company: Join a growing manufacturing team in Thatcham with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, early finishes on Fridays, and diverse project opportunities.
- Other info: Stable, long-term role with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make an impact in bespoke manufacturing while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing design and strong CAD skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 € per year.
Location: Thatcham, Berkshire
Department: Manufacturing / Engineering
Reports to: Fabrication Director
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Approximately £35,000 per year
Working Hours: Monday Thursday, 8:00am 5:00pm | Friday, 8:00am 3:00pm
About the Role
Our client is looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Manufacturing Designer to join their growing manufacturing and engineering team in Thatcham. This role is responsible for interpreting customer orders and technical specifications, producing accurate manufacturing drawings, and programming CNC and associated production machinery. You will play a key role in bridging the gap between customer requirements, design intent, and efficient, high-quality manufacturing. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong CAD and fabrication knowledge who enjoys working in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Interpret customer orders, drawings, and specifications to understand technical and commercial requirements
- Produce accurate manufacturing drawings, layouts, and assembly details for production
- Generate and maintain CAD models and detailed fabrication drawings
- Programme CNC machinery including laser, punch, press brake, router, or similar production equipment
- Optimise designs and machine programmes for efficiency, quality, and material usage
- Liaise with sales, production, and quality teams to resolve design or manufacturing issues
- Prepare and maintain complete job packs including drawings, programmes, and supporting documentation
- Provide technical support and drawing clarification to production teams where required
- Manage drawing revisions and maintain accurate change control
- Ensure all work complies with relevant standards, safety requirements, and internal procedures
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in a manufacturing design or production engineering role
- Strong CAD skills using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar software
- Experience producing manufacturing and fabrication drawings
- Experience programming CNC or automated manufacturing equipment
- Ability to accurately interpret customer drawings and specifications
- Good understanding of sheet metal, fabrication, and machining processes
- High attention to detail with strong organisational skills
Desirable
- Experience within a make-to-order or custom manufacturing environment
- Knowledge of nesting software or CAM systems
- Understanding of tolerances, materials, and finishes
- Familiarity with ERP or production management systems
Personal Attributes
- Logical and methodical approach to problem-solving
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work across departments
- Commercial awareness and understanding of manufacturing constraints
- Proactive attitude with a focus on continuous improvement
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
What Our Client Offers
- Competitive salary of approximately £35,000 per year
- Early finish every Friday
- Opportunity to work on varied and bespoke manufacturing projects
- Supportive and experienced engineering team
- Stable, long-term opportunity within a growing business
To apply, please submit your CV for immediate consideration.
Manufacturing Designer in Reading employer: Gravity Personnel
Join a dynamic and supportive engineering team in Thatcham, where your skills as a Manufacturing Designer will be valued and nurtured. With a competitive salary, early finishes on Fridays, and the chance to work on bespoke projects, this role offers not just a job but a pathway for professional growth in a thriving manufacturing environment. Experience a culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Designer in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the manufacturing and engineering sectors, especially those who work with CAD and CNC machinery. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best manufacturing designs and CAD drawings to interviews. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your expertise and makes you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of sheet metal, fabrication processes, and CNC programming. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will impress your interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Designer in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your CAD skills and any relevant manufacturing design experience to catch our eye!
Show Off Your Projects:If you've worked on any cool projects, especially those involving CNC programming or fabrication, don’t hold back! Include them in your application to showcase your hands-on experience.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We love clarity, so make sure your points are easy to read and get straight to the point about why you’re a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gravity Personnel
✨Know Your CAD Software Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your CAD skills, especially with SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Inventor. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools, and maybe even bring a portfolio of your work to showcase your abilities.
✨Understand the Manufacturing Process
Familiarise yourself with the manufacturing processes relevant to the role, such as CNC programming and sheet metal fabrication. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these processes will show that you’re not just a designer but also understand how your designs translate into production.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. Think about scenarios where you had to resolve design issues or optimise production processes, and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves liaising with various teams, so highlight your communication skills and ability to work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked across departments in the past, as this will demonstrate your fit within their team-oriented culture.
