At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on testing of footwear and materials in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join a leading technical testing organisation with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days annual leave, flexible hours, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Full training provided; no prior experience needed, just a positive attitude!
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in footwear testing and gain valuable technical skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science; attention to detail is key.
The predicted salary is between 25400 - 25400 £ per year.
Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire
Salary: Up to £25,400 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Job Type: Permanent
Interaction Recruitment is working with a leading technical testing and research organisation to recruit a Footwear Technician to join its established Footwear Testing department in Kettering.
The Opportunity
This is an excellent opportunity for a practical and detail-focused individual to join a specialist footwear testing laboratory, working with footwear, materials and components. The successful candidate will carry out physical testing in accordance with established test methods and Health & Safety requirements, helping to produce accurate and reliable results for customers. Full training will be provided, making this a great opportunity for someone looking to develop their career within a technical testing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Operating standard laboratory equipment to carry out routine physical testing of footwear, materials and components
- Following established test methods and Health & Safety procedures
- Accurately recording and producing detailed test results
- Working to agreed deadlines and testing schedules
- Taking responsibility for aspects of laboratory and sample store maintenance
- Maintaining a clean, organised and efficient working environment
- Supporting continuous improvement activities within the laboratory
- Maintaining accurate personal training records in line with UKAS requirements
- Working closely with other members of the laboratory team
About the Successful Candidate
The ideal candidate will be organised, methodical and highly detail-focused, with the ability to work accurately to deadlines. Applicants should have:
- GCSEs in Maths, English and Science or equivalent/NVQ Level 3
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Good organisational and time management skills
- The ability to plan and prioritise workload effectively
- The ability to work independently as well as part of a laboratory team
- A flexible and adaptable approach
- A tenacious, positive and practical 'can-do' attitude
Desirable Experience
Previous experience in a physical testing laboratory would be advantageous, as would:
- Knowledge of footwear construction
- Knowledge of footwear materials and components
- Previous experience working within a technical or laboratory environment
- Understanding of quality or testing procedures
Full training will be provided, so applicants do not need to have previous footwear testing experience if they can demonstrate the right attitude, attention to detail and willingness to learn.
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 25–30 days' annual leave, depending on length of service
- Life assurance
- Group personal pension plan
- Income protection
- Free on-site parking
- Flexible working hours
- Training and development opportunities
Recruitment Process
Closing date: 2nd October 2026
First-stage interviews: 6th October 2026 – via Microsoft Teams
Second-stage interviews: 8th October 2026 – in person
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to build a career within footwear testing and technical laboratory work, with the opportunity to gain specialist knowledge and training within an established testing environment.
To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV for consideration.
Footwear Technician (Lab Based) in Kettering employer: Interaction Recruitment
Interaction Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and employee well-being. With competitive pay and flexible shifts, this role in Gateshead provides opportunities for personal growth and skill development, making it an ideal choice for those seeking meaningful employment in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Footwear Technician (Lab Based) in Kettering
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨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 Interaction Recruitment, 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Technician (Lab Based) in Kettering
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 Interaction Recruitment 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 Interaction Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Interaction Recruitment, 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 Interaction Recruitment 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.
