Sewing Technician Apprentice

Title: Sewing Technician Apprentice
Reporting to: Production Coordinator
Department: Manufacturing
Location: Sowerby Bridge, UK

OVERALL ROLE PURPOSE

We are seeking a creative individual who is keen to join our Manufacturing Team to make bespoke drapery and shapes for the events and entertainment industry. In conjunction, the apprentice will complete a minimum 12-month Textile Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeship level 2 programme through the Textile Centre of Excellence Academy.

This role would suit someone who has recently completed their GCSEs or A Levels and has an interest in textiles with a desire to start a career in this field.

The work carried in the J&C Joel Manufacturing team can be heavy, large and bulky at times, but also delicate, intricate and fragile, depending on what the customer desires.

With over 70 different fabrics being used within our standard range, the successful candidate will learn a variety of handling techniques to manufacture these with confidence.

Reporting to the Assistant Manufacturing Manager and assisted by our Senior Sewing Technicians, this role is responsible for the efficient production of drapes and shapes within the Manufacturing department. The role predominantly revolves around operating sewing machines with a strong focus on quality, with a high level of accuracy in measurement and fault identification required.

A flexible approach to working is a must due to the nature of the business and the demand for our products which can sometimes be last minute. There are also occasional opportunities to work at customers’ sites, which fosters growth and enables an understanding of the customer’s needs, as well as providing the chance see the finished fabric elements installed.

All training will be given in house by our Senior team to ensure all elements of manufacture are fully learnt and understood.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ACTIVITIES

• Master the operation of the sewing machines to manufacture drapery elements to a high standard and carry out regular quality checks, identifying any faults within the process.
• Work with the allocated trainer to learn the basic techniques of manufacture, then progress onto our more non-standard techniques once the basics have been mastered.
• Carry out basic servicing on the sewing machines, including cleaning on our range of Flat bed and Overlocking machines.
• Learn from on-site visits to amend and repair drapery using your basic skills, whether that may be in a theatre, arena, or school/college.
• Master the ability to understand technical drawings and specifications that will aid in the manufacture of all creative and bespoke elements.
• Ensure your workspace is kept clean, tidy, and organised with a methodical approach to your work.
• Learn all manufacturing procedures needed to ensure all drapery and fabric elements are manufactured to the correct specifications.
• Maintain a basic level of Health & Safety in all work practices and ensure, where necessary, any supplied PPE is utilised.
• Ensure compliance to all policies, practices and procedures at all times.
• Any other ad-hoc duties considered reasonable, as requested by the Manufacturing Production Manager.

The above duties, albeit being quite specific, are not all exhaustive and there may be times when other requirements are expected to carry out the role of Apprentice Sewing Technician to the expectations of the Company.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Excellent organisation and communicational skills are essential.
• Ability to think outside the box, sharing ideas and suggestions.
• Strong eye for detail and desire to take pride in work.
• Punctual and ability to manage time well.
• Trustworthy and reliable.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Aptitude to learn and develop, demonstrating self-motivation and pro activity.
• Good physical stamina, with previous experience in a manual role beneficial.
• Fluency in both written and verbal English.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Good standard of GCSE results, with minimum grade 4 in English and Maths.
• Experience of sewing and good understanding of basic techniques.