Apprentice Furniture Maker

Webs Training Ltd; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading training provider is seeking a Furniture Making Operative Apprentice to work with experienced craftspeople at Curve Craft. This apprenticeship offers hands-on training in woodworking, involving tasks like preparing materials, operating tools, and assembling furniture. Ideal candidates will have a genuine interest in woodworking and the commitment to produce high-quality work. This role is based in Nottingham with a pay of £7.55 per hour.

Qualifications

• Genuine interest in woodworking or furniture making.
• Responsible approach to health and safety.
• Ability to accept feedback and develop technical skills.

Responsibilities

• Reading job specifications and planning tasks.
• Preparing materials and operating machinery.
• Assembling and finishing furniture components.

Skills

Attention to detail

Good manual dexterity

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Basic literacy and numeracy

Education

GCSEs or equivalent

Tools

CNC equipment

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

The Role

As a Furniture Making Operative Apprentice at Curve Craft you will work alongside experienced craftspeople, gradually taking on more responsibility as you gain skills and confidence. Your duties will include:

• Receiving and reading job specifications, drawings and work instructions for curved furniture doors and components.
• Planning tasks and gathering the correct materials, tools and jigs.
• Preparing materials by measuring, marking out, cutting, shaping and sanding.
• Operating hand tools, power tools and woodworking machinery (including CNC equipment under supervision).
• Assembling components using joints, fixings and adhesives.
• Carrying out finishing operations such as sanding, spraying or applying veneers and laminates.
• Inspecting, rectifying and repairing any defects to maintain quality standards.
• Packing and storing finished items safely and correctly.
• Completing simple job sheets and recording materials used.
• Maintaining tools and equipment in good working order and reporting any faults.
• Following all health, safety and environmental procedures and keeping the workspace clean and organised.
• Supporting continuous improvement activities by contributing ideas to improve processes, reduce waste and enhance quality.

What You’ll Learn

During the apprenticeship you’ll gain:

• Knowledge of different furniture materials, components, finishes and fittings.
• Skills in measuring, marking out, cutting, shaping, jointing, assembly and finishing.
• Understanding of technical drawings, quality standards and health & safety.
• Behaviours such as attention to detail, teamwork, reliability and pride in your work.

Training and Support

• The apprenticeship typically lasts around 18 months plus preparation for End-Point Assessment.
• Training is delivered both on the job at Curve Craft and at Webs Training in Nottingham, usually by day-release or block-release.
• You will be supported and mentored by experienced furniture makers and assessed regularly by Webs Training.

Who We’re Looking For

• A genuine interest in woodworking, furniture making or joinery.
• Good manual dexterity and a responsible approach to health and safety.
• Willingness to learn, accept feedback and develop practical and technical skills.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Basic literacy and numeracy (GCSEs or equivalent, or willingness to work towards them).

Progression

On successful completion of the apprenticeship you may progress to more advanced roles such as Bespoke Furniture Maker (Level 3), CNC operator or supervisory positions within Curve Craft or the wider industry.

Pay

£7.55 per hour

Schedule

• Monday to Thursday, 6am - 4pm (Include days expected and hours)

Work Location

Workplace