Toolmaker

DK Recruitment; Paignton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading precision engineering business in Paignton seeks a skilled Toolmaker to join their expert team. This role involves manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining precision tooling used in production, ensuring high standards of accuracy and quality. The ideal candidate has strong experience in manual machining and CNC operations, a methodical approach to problem-solving, and the ability to work from engineering drawings. Competitive compensation is offered.

Qualifications

• Time-served Toolmaker or equivalent engineering apprenticeship.
• Strong experience with manual milling, turning, grinding, and surface grinding.
• CNC machining experience (programming or editing knowledge desirable).
• Ability to work from engineering drawings with strong attention to detail.
• Confident problem-solver with a methodical approach.
• Adept at working independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture, repair, and maintain precision tooling, jigs, fixtures and gauges.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, CAD files, and engineering specifications.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machining equipment to tight tolerances.
• Perform tool fitting, assembly, and testing to ensure accuracy and functionality.
• Work closely with production teams to troubleshoot tooling issues.
• Carry out preventative maintenance and support continuous improvement.

Skills

Manual milling

Turning

Grinding

CNC machining

Problem-solving

Education

Engineering apprenticeship or equivalent

Job description

Our client is a leading precision engineering business known for producing high-quality, close-tolerance components for a range of industries. With continued investment in technology and people, they are now looking to add a skilled Toolmaker to their expert team.

As a Toolmaker, you will play a key role in the manufacturing and maintenance of tooling used across production. You'll work to exceptional standards of accuracy, supporting engineering, production, and continuous improvement activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manufacture, repair, and maintain precision tooling, jigs, fixtures and gauges.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, CAD files, and engineering specifications.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machining equipment to tight tolerances.
• Perform tool fitting, assembly, and testing to ensure accuracy and functionality.
• Work closely with production teams to troubleshoot tooling issues and optimise performance.
• Carry out preventative maintenance and support continuous improvement activities.
• Ensure all work is completed safely and in line with quality standards.

About You

• Time-served Toolmaker or equivalent engineering apprenticeship.
• Strong experience with manual milling, turning, grinding, and surface grinding.
• CNC machining experience (programming or editing knowledge desirable).
• Ability to work from engineering drawings with strong attention to detail.
• Confident problem-solver with a methodical approach.
• Able to work independently and as part of a highly skilled team.