Cutlery/Silversmith Operative

Samuel Eales Silverware Ltd; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned cutlery manufacturer in Sheffield is seeking a Silversmith Operative to assist in the production, polishing, and assembly of high-quality silverware. The successful candidate will join a skilled team, applying traditional techniques and modern methods. A passion for craftsmanship and a minimum of 2 years' experience in the cutlery trade are essential. This full-time position offers a salary of £25,500, Monday to Friday hours, and benefits including 30 days of holiday and on-site parking.

Benefits

30 days holiday

On-site parking

No weekend work required

Qualifications

• 2 years minimum experience in the cutlery trade.
• Proficiency in spindle polishing and glazing.
• Experience in quality control and health & safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the production, polishing, and finishing of cutlery and silverware.
• Inspect materials and finished products to ensure quality.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations in the workspace.

Skills

Experience in the cutlery trade or similar manufacturing environment

Ability to learn spindle work and turning techniques

Attention to quality and precision

Tools

Polishing machines

CNC machines

Job description

Silversmith Operative

Sheffield | Inkerman‑Silver – Over 150 Years of Craftsmanship

£25,500 per year

Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

On‑site parking available

30 days holiday per year

About Us

Inkerman Silver is a family‑run cutlery and silverware manufacturer based in Sheffield, a city renowned for its craftsmanship. With over 150 years of heritage, we combine traditional silversmithing skills with modern manufacturing techniques to produce some of the finest cutlery and silverware in the world.

We are looking for a Silversmith Operative with 2 year minimum experience in the cutlery trade, including skills in spindle and glazing work, to join our team and assist in the production, polishing, and assembly of high‑quality silverware. This is a full‑time role where you will play an essential part in maintaining our premium craftsmanship standards and contributing to continuous improvement in our production processes.

Role Overview

As a Silversmith Operative, you will work with skilled craftspeople and use both traditional silversmithing techniques and modern manufacturing methods to produce and assemble cutlery, silverware, and cabinets. You will assist in polishing, finishing, quality control, and ensuring that products are manufactured to the highest standards. Your experience in spindle work and the cutlery trade will help enhance the quality of our products and contribute to the overall efficiency of our production process.

Key Responsibilities

Silversmithing & Assembly:

• Assist in the production, polishing, and finishing of high‑quality cutlery and silverware.
• Help with the assembly of products, ensuring all components are properly aligned and finished.
• Apply traditional silversmithing techniques to create durable and aesthetically pleasing products.

Spindle polishing:

• Perform glazing and spindle polishing and be experienced in nickel silver cutlery polishing.

Woodworking & Cabinet Making:

• Assist with the making of wooden cutlery cabinets, including cutting, sanding, and assembling using both manual and machine tools.
• Gain experience in woodworking techniques for cabinet finishing, ensuring precision and craftsmanship.

Quality Control & Process Improvement:

• Inspect materials, components, and finished products for quality, defects, and damage.
• Perform quality checks to ensure products meet our exacting standards.

Health & Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to health and safety regulations, including wearing the correct PPE.
• Use tools and machinery safely and efficiently while maintaining a safe working environment.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace and ensure safe disposal of waste.

Machine & Tool Operation:

• Learn to operate and assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of manufacturing equipment such as presses, grinders, polishing machines, CNC machines, hand tools, and woodworking tools.

Logistics & Workflow Support:

• Help with goods‑in inspection, checking raw materials for quality and quantity.
• Support the packing, loading, and unloading of finished goods for shipping.
• Use internal systems to track production progress and report issues.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in the cutlery trade or similar manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency or a willingness to learn spindle work and turning techniques.
• Passion for craftsmanship and a keen eye for detail.
• Experience in silversmithing, metalworking, and/or woodworking.
• Strong attention to quality and precision in all aspects of work.
• Willingness to learn and apply Lean Manufacturing techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about Sheffield’s rich heritage in cutlery and silverware.

Why Join Inkerman Silver?

• Be part of a company with over 150 years of craftsmanship and excellence.
• Earn £25,500 per year, with full‑time hours and benefits.
• Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM – no weekend work required.
• 30 days holiday per year to support a great work‑life balance.
• On‑site parking available for easy commuting.