Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Location: Paddock Wood, Kent
Salary: £32,000–£34,000 per annum
Hours: 6:30am–4:00pm
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Bonus: Company bonus scheme
Holiday: 28 days including bank holidays, plus Christmas shutdown arrangements

The Opportunity

An established SME manufacturing business in Paddock Wood is looking for a dependable and experienced Saw Operator to join its busy operations team.

You will be responsible for accurately cutting steel stock to specified measurements and preparing complete component kits for the fabrication team. You will also help organise the steel yard, monitor stock levels, operate a forklift and support general workshop activities.

This is a hands-on, physically active position suited to someone who takes pride in producing accurate work, maintaining a safe environment and helping production run efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Safely and efficiently operate industrial saws and associated workshop machinery.

Read and follow cutting lists, ensuring steel is cut to the correct dimensions and tolerances.

Check measurements and material specifications before and after cutting.

Select suitable stock lengths and plan cuts carefully to minimise material waste.

Prepare complete pre-fabrication component kits for the fabrication team.

Label, separate and store cut materials accurately.

Maintain the organisation of the steel yard, ensuring materials are stored safely and systematically.

Monitor stock levels and report shortages, discrepancies or damaged materials.

Assist with receiving deliveries and checking materials against relevant paperwork.

Operate a forklift to move, load and unload materials around the premises.

Undertake spray-painting duties when required.

Complete routine checks, cleaning and basic maintenance of machinery.

Report equipment faults or maintenance requirements promptly.

Keep the saw area, steel yard and wider workshop clean, tidy and free from hazards.

Work closely with the fabrication and workshop teams to meet production priorities and deadlines.

Assist with other workshop activities when required.

About You

The successful candidate will be:

• Reliable, punctual and committed, with a consistent approach to attendance.
• Hardworking and comfortable undertaking a practical and physically demanding role.
• Accurate and detail-focused, particularly when measuring and cutting materials.
• Able to understand cutting lists, measurements and written instructions.
• Practical and resourceful, with a focus on minimising material waste.
• Organised and able to manage materials safely and systematically.
• Safety-conscious and proactive in identifying potential hazards.
• Capable of working independently and taking responsibility for completing tasks.
• A supportive team member with clear communication skills.
• Flexible and willing to help with a range of workshop duties.
• Honest, trustworthy and proud of maintaining a high-quality working environment.

Experience and Skills

• Experience operating industrial saws or similar workshop machinery would be advantageous.
• Previous experience working with steel, metal stock, fabrication or manufacturing materials would be beneficial.
• The ability to use measuring equipment accurately is important.
• A good understanding of safe machine operation and workshop health and safety is required.
• Forklift experience and a valid forklift licence would be advantageous, although training may be available.
• Spray-painting or basic machine-maintenance experience would be beneficial but is not essential.
• You must be willing to complete any additional training required for the position.

The Company

You will be joining a well-established, family-run manufacturing business with a friendly and supportive working environment. The organisation values accountability, teamwork, attention to detail, reliable communication and a strong commitment to workplace safety.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable business with a loyal, long-serving team and play an important role within its manufacturing operation.

Please apply now

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