At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and monitor historic bobbinet machines in a hands-on factory role.
- Company: Join a proud local factory with nearly 200 years of heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, generous leave, workplace pension, and health benefits after two years.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Learn a rare skill while contributing to a globally recognised manufacturing process.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your reliability and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 12.73 - 12.73 £ per hour.
Location: South Chard, Somerset
Hours: Full time, two week rolling shift pattern (no weekend working)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience (starting from £12.73 per hour, rising as skills are gained)
Benefits: Workplace pension, Employee Assistance Programme (from day one), health benefits scheme (after 2 years’ service), 31 days annual leave including 8 bank holidays and Christmas and summer factory closures.
Be part of something rare – and proudly local. Where 200 year old machinery meets 21st century demand. This is not your average manufacturing role – it’s a hands on shop floor role, working with historic machinery to manufacture a unique product that still matters today. You will be joining a site that has been part of Chard’s industrial heritage for almost 200 years. Bobbinet tulle has been produced here since the early 19th century, using machinery and techniques that trace their origins back to 1808. Today, those same machines are producing fabrics made from fibres and materials that did not exist when they were first invented, for modern applications that could never have been imagined at the time. Today, South Chard remains home to the world’s largest bobbinet factory, producing specialist fabrics supplied across the globe. Generations of local families have worked here, passing down skills that are now increasingly rare. The work carried out in this factory supports modern industries including fashion, film & theatre, military and specialist technical applications – all from a site that is deeply rooted in the local community. If you are looking for skilled employment with a sense of pride, purpose and heritage, this is a genuinely unique opportunity.
The role: As a Twisthand, you will be a key part of the production team, responsible for the setup, running and monitoring of bobbinet machines. A Twisthand typically looks after up to four or five machines at a time, working closely with experienced colleagues within the Twisthand team as well as production support staff. This is a practical, physically demanding factory role involving historic mechanical equipment that requires care, attention and skill. Full training is provided, and you will be supported as you learn about the machinery, materials and processes involved. Over time, you will build valuable mechanical and production skills and play an important part in keeping this specialist manufacturing process running safely, efficiently and to a high standard of quality.
Who this role suits: This opportunity is ideal whether you are:
- Leaving college
- Looking for a career change
- Returning to work
- Seeking stable, long term employment with progression
No previous textile experience is required. What matters most is your approach to work, your reliability and your willingness to learn.
The ideal candidate: You will be:
- Physically fit and comfortable with hands on factory work
- Reliable, conscientious and safety aware
- A good team player who also works well independently
- Punctual, with a strong work ethic
- Detail focused, with the ability to follow processes accurately
Training, development and progression: Full role specific training provided. Access to additional training courses. Opportunities to broaden your role over time, including potential responsibilities in areas such as health and safety. The business values long term careers and will support your development as your skills and experience grow.
Why work here: Learn a rare and respected manufacturing skill. Work in a historic factory that still plays an active role in modern industry. Be part of a close knit, experienced team. No weekend working. Generous holiday allowance with planned closures. Contribute to a business that puts South Chard on the global map.
If you feel this role could be right for you, apply today and become part of a tradition that continues to shape both our industry and our community.
Machine Operator (Twisthand) – FULL TRAINING PROVIDED employer: Swisstulle
Join a proud local employer in South Chard, Somerset, where you can learn a rare and respected manufacturing skill while working with historic machinery that has been part of the community for nearly 200 years. With full training provided, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to employee development, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a globally recognised factory while enjoying a supportive and close-knit work culture without weekend shifts. Be part of a team that values reliability, safety, and a strong work ethic, all while making a meaningful impact in modern industries.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Operator (Twisthand) – FULL TRAINING PROVIDED
✨Get Hands-On with Local Manufacturing Events
Dive right into your local manufacturing scene by attending trade shows and expos. These events are goldmines for meeting industry professionals and getting your name out there. Plus, you might even stumble upon trainee opportunities at booths or networking sessions!
✨Join Manufacturing Associations or Groups
Get involved with organisations like the Institute of Mechanical Engineers or the Manufacturing Technologies Association. They often have events for budding trainees and can help connect us with companies looking for fresh talent, like Swisstulle.
✨Leverage Your Educational Resources
If you’re currently studying, don't forget to tap into your university's career services. They often have direct connections with local manufacturers and might even host career fairs where you can chat with representatives from companies like Swisstulle.
✨Apply through Opportunities Like Ours
Don’t miss the chance to apply directly through our website for that trainee role at Swisstulle. We make it easy for you to stay updated on the latest openings and ensure your application lands right where it needs to be.
We think you need these skills to ace Machine Operator (Twisthand) – FULL TRAINING PROVIDED
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:In manufacturing, it's super important to showcase any technical skills you have, like proficiency with machinery or understanding production processes. Make sure to list any relevant coursework, projects, or certifications that demonstrate your hands-on abilities in your CV.
Be Ready to Learn:As a trainee, your eagerness to learn can set you apart. In your cover letter, emphasise your motivation to gain knowledge in the manufacturing field, and don’t forget to mention any previous experiences where you’ve quickly picked up new skills or adapted to new environments.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When crafting your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and structure to make your application easy to navigate. Employers in manufacturing appreciate directness, so let your experiences and skills shine without any fluff.
Show Team Spirit:Manufacturing is often a team effort, so highlighting your teamwork skills can make a big difference. Include examples from school or previous work where you contributed to a group project or collaborated effectively with others in your CV or cover letter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swisstulle
✨Know Your Production Processes
Before you head into the interview with Swisstulle, brush up on the key manufacturing processes and methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Trainees are expected to show a basic understanding of how production lines operate, so being able to nod your head and engage in conversation about them will score you major points.
✨Highlight Your Hands-On Experience
As a trainee in manufacturing production, showing that you have some hands-on experience—whether from coursework, projects, or part-time work—can really make you stand out. Bring any relevant examples of how you’ve worked with tools or machinery, or any experience you’ve had with health and safety protocols.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Be ready for potential practical assessments during your interview. Companies like Swisstulle often want to see how you might handle real-world tasks, so you might be asked about handling specific machinery or solving on-the-spot production issues. Practising these scenarios can really help you feel confident.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
In a trainee role, companies know you're not going to know everything, so emphasise your eagerness to learn and adapt. Share experiences where you've had to quickly pick up new skills or knowledge. This openness to growth will resonate well with the hiring team at Swisstulle.
