Honing Setter Operative

Vivo Talent; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Vivo Talent is seeking a Honing Setter Operator in Manufacturing / Production. You will set up, operate, and maintain honing machines to produce precision components to specification, perform tooling changes, and inspect parts to ensure quality while meeting production targets.

This role requires reading engineering drawings, using micrometers, bore gauges, verniers and dial indicators; working with 5S and safety procedures; and collaborating with quality, engineering and production teams.

Qualifications

• Experience operating honing machines in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Proficient with precision measuring equipment and interpretation of tolerances.
• GCSE Maths/English and engineering training preferred.
• Desirable knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare honing machines per production specifications.
• Install tooling, fixtures and honing stones as required.
• Adjust machines to achieve dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
• Operate equipment safely to meet production schedules.
• Inspect components using precision tools (first-off, in-process, final).
• Interpret drawings and work instructions accurately.
• Monitor machine performance and maintain quality.
• Record production data and machine settings.
• Carry out routine maintenance and cleaning.
• Report equipment faults or quality concerns promptly.
• Collaborate with quality, engineering and production teams.
• Maintain 5S housekeeping and safety procedures.

Skills

Honing machine operation

Reading drawings

Precision measuring

Geometric tolerancing

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Team player

Education

GCSE Maths & English

Engineering qualification or apprenticeship

Tools

Micrometers

Bore gauges

Dial indicators

Verniers

Job description

Job Title

Honing Setter Operator

Department

Manufacturing / Production

Reports To

Production Supervisor / Manufacturing Manager

Job Summary

The Honing Setter Operator is responsible for setting, operating, and maintaining honing machines to produce precision-engineered components to specified quality standards. The role involves machine set-up, tooling adjustments, inspection of finished parts, and ensuring production targets are achieved while maintaining a safe and efficient working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare honing machines in accordance with production specifications and engineering drawings.
• Select and install appropriate tooling, fixtures, and honing stones.
• Perform machine adjustments to ensure dimensional accuracy and surface finish requirements are met.
• Operate honing equipment safely and efficiently to achieve production schedules.
• Conduct first-off, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality standards.
• Record production data, inspection results, and machine settings as required.
• Carry out routine machine maintenance and cleaning activities.
• Identify and report equipment faults, tooling issues, or quality concerns.
• Work closely with quality, engineering, and production teams to resolve manufacturing issues.
• Maintain housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S principles.
• Adhere to all company health, safety, environmental, and quality procedures.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous experience operating and setting honing machines within a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering documentation.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, bore gauges, verniers, and dial indicators.
• Knowledge of geometric tolerances and surface finish requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable

• Apprenticeship or engineering qualification.
• Experience within aerospace, automotive, precision engineering, or advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Knowledge of CNC-controlled honing equipment.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English.
• Engineering qualification, apprenticeship, or relevant vocational training preferred.

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing workshop environment.
• Standing for extended periods and handling precision components.
• Shift work may be required, including overtime when necessary.
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Achievement of production targets.
• Quality and accuracy of machined components.
• Reduction of scrap and rework.
• Machine uptime and efficiency.
• Compliance with health and safety requirements.
• Adherence to production schedules and delivery deadlines.

Personal Attributes

• Highly motivated and reliable.
• Detail-oriented with a quality-first mindset.
• Strong communication skills.
• Flexible approach to work and changing production priorities.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and safe working practices.

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