Production Operative

Gateway; Nantwich; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Nantwich is seeking a detail-oriented Production Operative to join their expanding Machine Shop. The ideal candidate will have experience operating CNC mills and a solid understanding of precision machining principles. You will work collaboratively to enhance production processes and ensure the highest quality of components. The role offers a competitive salary, 26 days holiday, and ongoing training. If you're passionate about precision engineering, apply today to shape the future of the facility.

Benefits

Competitive salary

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Ongoing training and development

Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC mills or CNC-controlled equipment.
• Solid understanding of precision machining principles.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and work to tight tolerances.
• Logical, practical problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and a willingness to share ideas.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC mills, NC surface grinders, lapping machines, and laser equipment.
• Set, run, and adjust machinery to meet stringent tolerances and finishes.
• Inspect parts using precision measurement tools.
• Work alongside the Machine Shop Manager to refine machining strategies.
• Deliver high-quality components to specification.

Skills

CNC operation

Precision machining

Problem-solving

Communication

Job description

Join Our Growing Team as a Production Operative

Location: Nantwich

Hours: 37 per week - Mon-Thu: 09:00-17:00 Fri: 09:00-16:30

Flexible working and shift options available

Are you hands‑on, detail‑driven, and passionate about precision engineering?

At Gateway, our Machine Shop is known for specialist ferrite machining—and now we are expanding into exciting new materials and advanced production processes. We are looking for a proactive Production Operative who enjoys problem‑solving, takes pride in high‑accuracy work, and wants to help shape the future of a rapidly growing facility.

This is your chance to be part of something evolving, innovative, and genuinely rewarding.

What you will be doing

Machine Operation & Production

• Operate CNC mills, NC surface grinders, lapping machines, and laser equipment.
• Set, run, and adjust machinery to meet stringent tolerances and finishes.
• Inspect parts using precision measurement tools (micrometers, gauges, CMM).
• Carry out basic machine maintenance, cleaning, tool changes, and routine checks.

Process Development & Continuous Improvement

• Work alongside the Machine Shop Manager to refine machining strategies and improve workflow efficiency.
• Identify tooling, fixturing, or process challenges—and propose smart, practical solutions.
• Get involved in improvement initiatives as we expand capability and capacity.

Quality & Accuracy

• Deliver high‑quality components to spec, every time.
• Follow quality procedures and elevate issues constructively.

Culture & Mindset

• Bring a positive, solution‑focused approach to work.
• Stay calm and logical under pressure—no panic, just methodical problem‑solving.
• Communicate openly and supportively within the team.
• Take pride in craftsmanship and contribute to a professional environment.

What we are looking for

Essential

• Experience operating CNC mills or CNC‑controlled equipment.
• Solid understanding of precision machining principles.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and work to tight tolerances.
• Logical, practical problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and a willingness to share ideas.

Desirable

• Experience with ferrite, ceramics, or other fragile materials.
• Knowledge of NC surface grinding, lapping, or laser processing.
• Understanding of toolpaths, offsets, feeds & speeds, and machining optimisation.
• Exposure to Lean, 5S, or similar continuous‑improvement approaches.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.
• 26 days holiday + bank holidays.
• A genuine opportunity to shape the future of our expanding machine shop.
• The chance to work with unique materials, including ferrites, using specialist equipment.
• A supportive and open environment where your ideas truly matter.
• Ongoing training and development, plus investment in new technologies.

Our Recruitment Process

• Application Review – Your application will be reviewed by Recruitment & Hiring Manager.
• Initial Screening – Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a Teams interview to discuss the role and your experience in more detail.
• Interview – Candidates will be invited to a face‑to‑face interview at our offices. This may include competency‑based questions and discussion about your technical experience.
• Assessment (if applicable) – Some roles may include a short presentation, task, or technical assessment relevant to the position.
• Offer and onboarding – Successful candidates will receive a formal offer, followed by pre‑employment checks and onboarding support to ensure a smooth start. We aim to keep you informed at every stage of the process and provide feedback wherever possible.

Ready to Build the Future With Us?

If you are passionate about precision engineering and want to be part of a forward‑thinking team, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help us take our Machine Shop to the next level.