Skilled Toolmaker

Skilled Toolmaker / Manual Machinist – Precision Engineering Location: Nelson, Lancashire Salary: £33,000–£43,000 per annum, dependent on experience Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time The Opportunity Forward Assist Recruitment is looking for an experienced Skilled Toolmaker / Manual Machinist to join an established precision engineering business based in Nelson, Lancashire. This is a fantastic opportunity for a time-served engineer who enjoys hands-on, precision machining and takes pride in producing high-quality components from engineering drawings. Unlike high-volume production environments, this role involves manufacturing one-off components and small batches, offering plenty of variety and the opportunity to put your engineering skills to good use. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in aerospace, defence or high-precision manufacturing, although skilled engineers from other relevant backgrounds are encouraged to apply. For candidates bringing strong technical expertise and aerospace experience, a highly competitive salary is available.

Key Responsibilities

* Set and operate manual lathes, milling machines and surface grinders, including XYZ Machine Tools equipment. * Manufacture precision turned and milled components from technical engineering drawings. * Produce one-off components and small production batches to demanding quality standards. * Independently plan and set up machining operations, selecting appropriate methods and tooling. * Interpret engineering drawings, dimensions and tolerances to ensure components meet customer specifications. * Carry out first-off and in-process inspections, taking responsibility for the quality of completed work. * Deburr and finish components to the required specifications. * Support the assembly of precision components and fasteners where required. * Complete relevant production documentation, including works orders and non-conformance reports. * Carry out routine machine checks and support preventative maintenance activities. * Work closely with colleagues to maintain production quality, efficiency and delivery schedules. * Contribute ideas to improve manufacturing processes and working practices. What We're Looking For Essential: * A time-served engineer, Toolmaker or experienced Manual Machinist with a strong precision engineering background. * Proven experience setting and operating manual lathes and milling machines. * Ability to manufacture components from scratch using engineering drawings. * Good understanding of machining techniques, tolerances and precision measurement. * Experience working with one-off components or small-batch production. * A practical, methodical approach to setting up machining operations. * Strong attention to detail and pride in producing high-quality work. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Good problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. Highly Desirable: * Previous experience within aerospace, defence or high-precision engineering. * Experience operating XYZ Machine Tools equipment. * Surface grinding experience. * Experience manufacturing complex or close-tolerance components. * Background in toolroom engineering or subcontract precision machining. * Experience inspecting finished components using precision measuring equipment. What's on Offer? Competitive salary of £33,000–£43,000, dependent on experience and technical capability. A permanent opportunity within an established precision engineering business. Varied and interesting work producing one-off and small-batch components. The chance to utilise traditional machining skills in a specialist manufacturing environment. Opportunities for ongoing technical training and development. A hands-on engineering position where quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail are genuinely valued. We recognise that experienced manual machinists and toolmakers are highly skilled professionals. Candidates with strong aerospace, defence or precision engineering expertise will be considered towards the upper end of the salary range. Interested? If you're a Skilled Toolmaker, Manual Machinist, Manual Miller, Manual Turner or Toolroom Engineer looking for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact Forward Assist Recruitment for a confidential discussion