Service Centre Operator

Harwin; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Harwin in Portsmouth is seeking a skilled Manual Machinist to operate manual milling machines, lathes and surface grinders to produce high-precision components in a fast-paced engineering environment. You will read engineering drawings and CAD models, select tooling, set up machines, and perform in-process inspection with micrometers and gauges.

The role emphasizes traceability, quality, and collaboration with design and production teams.

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering / Machining or equivalent.
• NVQ / City & Guilds Level 3 or similar engineering qualification.
• Experience reading engineering drawings and working to tight tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Operate manual milling machines to manufacture precision components.
• Operate manual lathes to produce shafts, bushings, fixtures, and machined parts.
• Operate manual surface grinders to achieve tight tolerances and high-quality finishes.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications.
• Select tooling, workholding methods, and machining strategies.
• Carry out machine setup, alignment, and basic maintenance.
• Perform in-process inspection using precision measuring equipment (micrometers, verniers, gauges).
• Work collaboratively with design and production teams to support prototype and tooling requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure traceability where required.
• Adhere to company quality standards and health & safety procedures.

Skills

Manual milling

Manual turning

Surface grinding

Read drawings

Metrology

Problem solving

Quality awareness

Safety awareness

Documentation

Education

Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering / Machining

NVQ / City & Guilds Level 3

Tools

Manual milling machines

Manual lathes

Surface grinders

Job description

Job Title: Manual Machinist (Milling/Turning/Grinding) **Salary:** £30,000 **Location:** Portsmouth (On site) **Hours:** 39 Hours/week Are you an experienced **Manual Machinist** looking for your next career move? Do you want to work for a manufacturing company specialising in the innovative design and production of electrical / electronic components? We are recruiting for a Manual Machinist who is responsible for operating manual milling machines, lathes, and surface grinders to manufacture high-precision components in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Role: You will play a key role within the toolroom and manufacturing team, supporting prototype, tooling, and production activities:

• Operate manual milling machines to manufacture precision components and tooling
• Operate manual lathes to produce shafts, bushings, fixtures, and machined parts
• Operate manual surface grinders to achieve tight tolerances and high-quality finishes
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications
• Manufacture components to precise tolerances and quality standards
• Select appropriate tooling, workholding methods, and machining strategies
• Carry out machine setup, alignment, and basic maintenance
• Perform in-process inspection using precision measuring equipment (micrometers, verniers, gauges)
• Work collaboratively with design and production teams to support prototype and tooling requirements
• Maintain accurate records and ensure traceability where required
• Adhere to company quality standards and health & safety procedures
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the toolroom **Requirements:** To succeed in this role, you will bring strong manual machining experience and a high level of precision:
• Proven experience operating manual milling machines, lathes, and surface grinders
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work to tight tolerances
• Strong understanding of machining techniques, including feeds, speeds, and tooling selection
• Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments
• Experience manufacturing one-off or small batch precision components
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering / Machining or equivalent experience
• NVQ / City & Guilds or similar engineering qualification (Level 3 preferred)