Toolmaker

Holt Engineering; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Portsmouth is seeking an experienced Toolmaker to join their skilled team. This role involves producing and maintaining precision tooling, interpreting engineering drawings, and operating various workshop machinery. Ideal candidates will have strong hands-on skills, the ability to work to fine tolerances, and a commitment to safety and quality in manufacturing. Mentoring Improver Toolmakers and Apprentices is also a key aspect of this position.

Qualifications

• Time-served Toolmaker or equivalent experience in a precision machining/toolroom environment.
• Strong hands-on machining skills with lathes, mills, grinders and related workshop equipment.
• Good understanding of moulds, jigs, fixtures and general production tooling.

Responsibilities

• Deliver complex toolmaking projects, from strip-down and diagnosis to repair and final sign-off.
• Assemble, fit and repair tools, jigs, moulds, dies and special fixtures.
• Interpret engineering drawings to accurately measure and machine tooling components.

Skills

Precision machining

Reading engineering drawings

Operating lathes and mills

Using CAD/CAM software

Safety consciousness

Education

Equivalent experience in a precision machining/toolroom environment

Tools

2D and 3D 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 (url removed)