Toolmaker / Manual Machinist

Theo James Recruitment; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency specializing in engineering seeks an experienced Toolmaker / Manual Machinist in Sunderland. The role involves manufacturing and repairing precision tools, interpreting drawings, and employing manual machining techniques. Ideal candidates will have strong experience in toolmaking and a proactive approach. This position offers a competitive salary, alongside a supportive team environment working on complex projects.

Benefits

Annual salary review

Death in service benefit

Employee Assistance Programme

Occupational Health Service

33 days of holidays

Qualifications

• Strong background in toolmaking or precision machining.
• Experience with manual milling, turning, and surface grinding.
• Confident working independently and within a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture, fit, and repair precision tools and components.
• Interpret technical drawings and operate conventional machines.
• Assist in developing tooling solutions for production processes.

Skills

Strong experience with manual milling

Time-served or apprentice-trained Toolmaker

Ability to read complex engineering drawings

Excellent attention to detail

Experience with tool fitting and maintenance

Good problem-solving skills

Job description

Job Title: Toolmaker / Manual Machinist
Location: Sunderland
Hourly Rate: Up to £36,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Shifts: Monday - Friday, Days

Benefits

• Annual salary review (customary, though not guaranteed or contractual)
• Death in service benefit: 1 year's salary paid to beneficiaries if employee dies while employed
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): access to counselling and legal services
• Occupational Health Service: annual health screening and other relevant services
• Holidays: 33 days total (including bank holidays)

Job Description

• Be responsible for the manufacture, fitting, and repair of precision tools, jigs, fixtures, and components.
• Working from detailed engineering drawings, you'll use manual milling, turning, grinding, and fitting techniques to produce high-quality work to tight tolerances.
• The Toolmaker / Manual Machinist will be expected to interpret technical drawings, set up and operate conventional machines, and perform hand fitting to achieve accurate assemblies.
• You'll also assist in developing and improving tooling solutions for production processes.
• This position requires a hands-on individual who takes pride in their workmanship and enjoys solving engineering challenges.
• The ideal Toolmaker / Manual Machinist will have a strong background in toolmaking or precision machining and the ability to work independently or as part of a small, dedicated team.

You’ll join a company where your skills are valued and craftsmanship is recognised. The successful Toolmaker / Manual Machinist will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of interesting projects, ranging from one-off prototypes to complex production tooling.

Skills & Experience

• Time-served or apprentice-trained Toolmaker / Manual Machinist
• Strong experience with manual milling, turning, and surface grinding
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings
• Excellent attention to detail and precision working to fine tolerances
• Experience with tool fitting, assembly, and maintenance
• Knowledge of jigs, fixtures, mould tools, or press tools advantageous
• Confident working independently and within a team environment
• Good problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to continuous improvement

The Company

Join a forward-thinking precision engineering business at the forefront of CNC innovation and tooling design. Known for its modern facilities, tight-knit team, and investment in both technology and people, this company offers a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Toolmaker / Manual Machinist to work on complex, high-specification projects in a professional and supportive environment