Toolmaker

Holt Recruitment Group Limited; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing firm in Portsmouth seeks a Toolmaker to join their skilled team. The role involves producing and maintaining precision tooling essential for high-quality production. Responsibilities include interpreting engineering drawings, operating various machines, and mentoring apprentices. Ideal candidates have significant experience in precision machining, along with strong technical skills and a focus on safety. A competitive salary of £34,320 to £35,360 is offered for this full-time position.

Qualifications

• Experience in a precision machining/toolroom environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Strong hands-on skills with workshop machinery.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and repair precision tools including jigs and moulds.
• Operate machinery to create tooling components.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures.

Skills

Machining skills

Reading engineering drawings

Problem-solving

Safety awareness

Education

Time-served Toolmaker or equivalent experience

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Lathes

Milling machines

Grinders

Job description

Toolmaker

Location: Portsmouth

Hours: 40 hours per week

Salary: £34,320–£35,360 per annum (equivalent to £16.50–£17.00 per hour)

Join a skilled, hands‑on manufacturing team as a Toolmaker, producing and maintaining the precision tooling that underpins high‑quality production. This role suits an experienced machinist/toolmaker who enjoys problem‑solving, working to fine tolerances and supporting continuous improvement on the shop floor.

About the role

The Toolmaker is responsible for manufacturing, assembling, fitting and repairing precision tools, including jigs, moulds, dies, special guides and holding devices used in production. You will work from detailed engineering drawings, using a range of workshop machinery and CAD/CAM tools to ensure all tooling supports efficient, reliable manufacture.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver complex toolmaking projects, from strip‑down and diagnosis through to repair and final sign‑off.
• Assemble, fit and repair tools, jigs, moulds, dies and special fixtures used in the manufacturing process.
• Interpret engineering drawings to accurately measure, mark out and machine tooling components.
• Operate lathes, presses, milling machines and grinders to cut, shape and finish tools to tight tolerances.
• Use 2D and 3D CAD/CAM software to support design, modification and manufacture of tooling.
• Implement modifications to moulds to improve performance, quality and reliability.
• Maintain safe operations by adhering to all safety procedures and regulations.
• Document and communicate actions, irregularities and ongoing requirements to maintain continuity between shifts.
• Escalate production or tooling issues to the Tool Room Supervisor as required.
• Ensure high standards of housekeeping, quality and Health & Safety, always promoting a safe working environment.

Responsibility for staff & equipment

• Maintain swarf bins, oil and coolant levels, ensuring machines are kept in good working order.
• Ensure hand tools and cutting tools are returned and stored correctly.
• Mentor Improver Toolmakers and Toolmaking Apprentices, supporting their development.
• Ensure lifting equipment is fit for purpose and regularly inspected and maintained.

About you

• Time‑served Toolmaker or equivalent experience in a precision machining/toolroom environment.
• Confident reading and working from detailed engineering drawings.
• Strong hands‑on machining skills with lathes, mills, grinders and related workshop equipment.
• Good understanding of moulds, jigs, fixtures and general production tooling.
• Safety‑conscious, organised and proactive, with a focus on quality and right‑first‑time work.

To apply, please send your CV to [e-mail]