At a Glance
- Tasks: Build bespoke, high-spec machines from engineering drawings and collaborate with engineers.
- Company: Join Ridgway Machines, a leader in innovative engineering for over 100 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, company bonus, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Experience hands-on engineering and see your creations come to life.
- Qualifications: Mechanical fitting experience and ability to work from engineering drawings.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
With over 100 years of engineering excellence, Ridgway Machines is a global leader in the design and manufacture of specialist taping, winding machinery and renewables. Since 1920, we've delivered innovative, high-performance solutions to industries including wire & cable, aerospace, electrical energy, and advanced manufacturing. Now part of the Tokamak Energy group, we're contributing to the future of fusion energy and high-temperature superconductors—combining our heritage of precision engineering with cutting‑edge scientific advancement.
The Opportunity
We're growing — and looking for skilled Mechanical Fitters to join our team. This isn't a production-line role. You'll be building bespoke, high-spec machines from the ground up — working on complex, one-off or low-volume builds that demand skill, precision, and problem-solving. If you enjoy seeing a machine come together from drawings to completion, this role will give you real ownership and variety. This is an onsite role based in our easily accessible premises on Meridian Business Park, Leicester, LE19 1WH. There is free car parking onsite. Salary range - £35,000 to £45,000 per annum DOE.
What You'll Be Doing
- Building complete bespoke machines from engineering drawings
- Assembling mechanical systems (drives, motion systems, bearings, shafts)
- Working from GA and assembly drawings
- Following build sheets and processes
- Carrying out precision fitting and alignment
- Collaborating with engineers on modifications
- Raising ECRs to improve design and build
- Delivering builds to time, budget and quality
Requirements
Essential Experience
- Mechanical fitting / full machine build experience
- Ability to work from engineering drawings
- Experience with bearings, shafts, rails, ball screws, drives
- Skilled with tools and measuring equipment
- Manual handling required
Desirable
- Pneumatics
- Sensors
- Basic machining
- QMS / ISO exposure
Who You Are
- Detail-focused and methodical
- Self-motivated and adaptable
- Strong problem solver
- Team player with good communication
- Passionate about engineering
Benefits
- Salary dependent on skills and experience and will be discussed from the outset
- 37.5 hour working week, Friday finish at 1.30pm for production teams
- 25 days paid annual leave (includes 3 days for Christmas shut down) plus 8 days paid public holidays
- Company Bonus scheme
- Stakeholder Pension
- Family friendly policies
- Training and Personal Development
- Some onward International Travel Opportunities
- Complementary corporate work wear
- Relocation Assistance
Important information for candidates
Pre-employment screening
Please note that the appointment of the successful candidate will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, as applicable to the post. This will include right-to-work, proof of identity and references.
Data privacy
Please note that any personal data submitted to Ridgway Machines as part of the job application process will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation.
Equality of opportunity
Entry into employment with Ridgway Machines and progression within employment will be determined only by personal merit and the application of criteria which are related to the duties of each post and the relevant salary structure. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We're committed to building an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please let us know. We're happy to make the necessary arrangements to ensure you can perform at your best.
Mechanical Fitter (Machine Build) in Leicester employer: Ridgway Machines Ltd
Ridgway Machines is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where skilled Mechanical Fitters can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive culture that values precision engineering, you'll have the opportunity to work on bespoke machinery while enjoying benefits like a 37.5-hour work week, generous leave, and potential international travel. Located in Leicester, our easily accessible site provides a collaborative atmosphere that fosters innovation and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Fitter (Machine Build) in Leicester
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Ridgway Machines Ltd.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Ridgway Machines Ltd love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Ridgway Machines Ltd and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Fitter (Machine Build) in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Ridgway Machines Ltd and the Mechanical Fitter (Machine Build) role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ridgway Machines Ltd
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Ridgway Machines Ltd.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Ridgway Machines Ltd.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Ridgway Machines Ltd, making you a more appealing candidate.
