Machine Operator

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment Ltd; Whetsted; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company bonus scheme

Job summary

Paddock Wood, Kent-based Machine Operator role is available for a well-established manufacturing business. You will safely operate industrial saws and related machinery, reading cutting lists and ensuring exact dimensions, while maintaining a tidy and safe workshop.

The position is full-time with a company bonus scheme and 28 days of holiday including bank holidays. The shift runs 6:30am–4:00pm, with responsibilities covering yard organisation, stock checks, and assisting with deliveries and

Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial saws or similar workshop machinery.
• Ability to read and follow cutting lists and measurements precisely.
• Competent using measuring equipment accurately.
• Knowledge of health and safety in a workshop.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate industrial saws and workshop machinery.
• Read cutting lists and cut steel to size within tolerances.
• Check measurements before and after cutting.
• Manage stock lengths and minimise waste.
• Prepare fabrication component kits for the team.
• Maintain steel yard organisation and safe storage.
• Report shortages or damaged materials.
• Operate forklift to move materials around site.
• Complete routine checks and maintenance of machinery.
• Keep work areas clean and hazards-free.
• Work closely with fabrication and workshop teams to meet production priorities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Measuring equipment

Forklift operation

Cutting-list literacy

Safety consciousness

Tools

Forklift licence

Job description

Machine Operator

Location: Paddock Wood, Kent

Salary: £32,000-£34,000 per annum

Hours: 6:30am-4:00pm

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Bonus: Company bonus scheme

Holiday: 28 days including bank holidays, plus Christmas shutdown arrangements

Key Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate industrial saws and associated workshop machinery.
• Read and follow cutting lists, ensuring steel is cut to the correct dimensions and tolerances.
• Check measurements and material specifications before and after cutting.
• Select suitable stock lengths and plan cuts carefully to minimise material waste.
• Prepare complete pre-fabrication component kits for the fabrication team.
• Label, separate and store cut materials accurately.
• Maintain the organisation of the steel yard, ensuring materials are stored safely and systematically.
• Monitor stock levels and report shortages, discrepancies or damaged materials.
• Assist with receiving deliveries and checking materials against relevant paperwork.
• Operate a forklift to move, load and unload materials around the premises.
• Undertake spray-painting duties when required.
• Complete routine checks, cleaning and basic maintenance of machinery.
• Report equipment faults or maintenance requirements promptly.
• Keep the saw area, steel yard and wider workshop clean, tidy and free from hazards.
• Work closely with the fabrication and workshop teams to meet production priorities and deadlines.
• Assist with other workshop activities when required.

About You

• Reliable, punctual and committed, with a consistent approach to attendance.
• Hardworking and comfortable undertaking a practical and physically demanding role.
• Accurate and detail-focused, particularly when measuring and cutting materials.
• Able to understand cutting lists, measurements and written instructions.
• Practical and resourceful, with a focus on minimising material waste.
• Organised and able to manage materials safely and systematically.
• Safety-conscious and proactive in identifying potential hazards.
• Capable of working independently and taking responsibility for completing tasks.
• A supportive team member with clear communication skills.
• Flexible and willing to help with a range of workshop duties.
• Honest, trustworthy and proud of maintaining a high-quality working environment.

Experience and Skills

• Experience operating industrial saws or similar workshop machinery would be advantageous.
• Previous experience working with steel, metal stock, fabrication or manufacturing materials would be beneficial.
• The ability to use measuring equipment accurately is important.
• A good understanding of safe machine operation and workshop health and safety is required.
• Forklift experience and a valid forklift licence would be advantageous, although training may be available.
• Spray-painting or basic machine-maintenance experience would be beneficial but is not essential.
• You must be willing to complete any additional training required for the position.

The Company

You will be joining a well-established, family-run manufacturing business with a friendly and supportive working environment. The organisation values accountability, teamwork, attention to detail, reliable communication and a strong commitment to workplace safety.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable business with a loyal, long-serving team and play an important role within its manufacturing operation.