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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead training for apprentices and engineers in woodworking machinery.
- Company: JJ Smith has over 100 years of experience in woodworking machinery.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible part-time role with a focus on work-life balance.
- Why this job: Shape the future of woodworking experts in a supportive, family-run environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in woodworking machinery and proven training skills required.
- Other info: Direct applications only; no recruiters, please.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us
At JJ Smith, we have been leaders in the supply and servicing of woodworking machinery for over 100 years. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and long-standing customer relationships has made us a trusted name in the industry. As we continue to grow and invest in the future, we’re looking for an experienced and passionate Head of Training to lead the development of our apprentices and engineers, ensuring they reach their full potential and remain at the cutting edge of woodworking machinery knowledge and skills.
The Role
This is a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of woodworking machinery experts. As Head of Training, you will be responsible for supervising and mentoring our engineering team—especially our apprentices—ensuring their technical knowledge and practical skills are developed to the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, deliver and oversee structured training programmes for apprentices and engineers
- Conduct regular skill assessments and identify development needs
- Provide hands-on support and mentoring, particularly around woodworking machinery operation, maintenance, and safety
- Keep training materials and technical documentation up to date
- Work closely with engineering managers and senior leadership to align training with operational goals
- Promote a culture of learning, safety, and continuous improvement
About You
We’re looking for someone who combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for teaching and developing others. You’ll be experienced in woodworking machinery, either from an engineering, service, or manufacturing background.
- Strong background in woodworking machinery or engineering
- Proven experience in training, coaching or mentoring apprentices or technical staff
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Ability to tailor training to different skill levels and learning styles
- Organised, proactive, and committed to quality and safety
- Recognised teaching or training qualifications
- Familiarity with apprenticeship frameworks or vocational training standards
- Experience with modern and traditional woodworking machinery
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a supportive and expert team with a rich engineering heritage
- Play a key role in developing talent and shaping the future of our business
- Enjoy flexibility in a part-time role that values work-life balance, or can be combined with another role
- Work in a family-run business that genuinely cares about its people
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you’re excited about this role to.
JJ Smith is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Please note that we are only accepting direct applications, no recruiters please.
Head of Training (Part-Time) employer: JJ Smith & Co
Contact Detail:
JJ Smith & Co Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Training (Part-Time)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in woodworking machinery. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field during any discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the woodworking industry, especially those involved in training and development. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to make connections that could provide insights into the role and potentially lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully trained or mentored others in the past. Highlighting your hands-on experience will show that you can effectively lead the development of apprentices and engineers at JJ Smith.
✨Tip Number 4
Research JJ Smith's company culture and values. Understanding their commitment to excellence and customer relationships will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing that you're a great fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Training (Part-Time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in woodworking machinery and training. Focus on relevant roles where you've mentored or coached others, and include specific achievements that demonstrate your impact.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for teaching and developing others. Mention why you are excited about the role at JJ Smith and how your background aligns with their commitment to excellence and innovation.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have recognised teaching or training qualifications, be sure to mention these prominently. Also, discuss any familiarity you have with apprenticeship frameworks or vocational training standards.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated complex technical information to different audiences, especially in a training context.
How to prepare for a job interview at JJ Smith & Co
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As the Head of Training, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of woodworking machinery. Be prepared to discuss your experience with both modern and traditional equipment, and how you've applied this knowledge in training or mentoring roles.
✨Highlight Your Teaching Philosophy
Since the role involves developing apprentices and engineers, share your approach to teaching and mentoring. Discuss how you tailor training to different skill levels and learning styles, and provide examples of successful training programmes you've implemented.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Strong communication is key in this role. Be ready to explain how you foster a culture of learning and safety within a team. Share instances where your communication skills have helped resolve issues or improve training outcomes.
✨Align with Company Values
JJ Smith values innovation and customer relationships. Research the company’s history and mission, and be prepared to discuss how your vision for training aligns with their goals. Show enthusiasm for being part of a family-run business that prioritises its people.
