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Posted 02 August, 2026

Manual Machinist

Kingdom People
London, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Are you an experienced Manual Machinist, Toolroom Machinist or Precision Engineer looking for your next opportunity within a world-class precision engineering environment?Do you enjoy producing one-off and small batch precision components while working to tight tolerances using manual machine tools?We're supporting a leading precision engineering manufacturer in Portsmouth who are looking to recruit a Service Centre Operator (Manual Machinist / Toolroom Machinist) to join their Toolroom team.This is an excellent opportunity to work on prototype development, tooling manufacture and production support within a business renowned for engineering excellence and innovation.What's the role all about?As a Service Centre Operator , you'll be responsible for manufacturing high-precision components using manual milling machines, manual lathes and manual surface grinders.Working closely with Design Engineers and Production teams, you'll produce tooling, prototypes and precision parts from engineering drawings, ensuring the highest standards of quality and accuracy are achieved.This is a varied, hands-on role where your machining expertise will directly support new product development and manufacturing operations.Key responsibilitiesOperate manual milling machines, centre lathes and surface grindersManufacture one-off and small batch precision components and toolingProduce components to tight tolerances from engineering drawings and specificationsInterpret engineering drawings, CAD models and technical documentationSelect appropriate tooling, workholding methods and machining strategiesCarry out machine set-up, alignment and routine maintenancePerform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, verniers and dial gaugesWork closely with Design Engineering and Production teams to support prototype and tooling requirementsMaintain accurate manufacturing records and traceability using the ERP systemEnsure all work is completed in line with company quality standards and Health & Safety proceduresSupport continuous improvement initiatives within the Toolroom and Manufacturing departmentsWhat you'll needTo succeed in this role, you'll bring:Proven experience operating:Manual milling machinesManual centre lathesManual surface grindersAbility to read and interpret engineering drawingsExperience working to tight tolerances within a precision engineering environmentStrong understanding of machining techniques, cutting tools, feeds and speedsExperience using precision measuring equipmentExcellent attention to detail and problem-solving skillsAbility to manufacture one-off and small batch componentsDesirableMechanical Engineering or Machining ApprenticeshipNVQ, City & Guilds or equivalent Engineering qualificationLevel 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing EngineeringExperience using ERP systems such as IFSBackground within aerospace, electronics or precision manufacturingAbout youYou're a skilled machinist who enjoys producing high-quality precision components and takes pride in your craftsmanship.You'll be:Detail-focused and methodicalHands-on and technically capableQuality-drivenA proactive problem solverComfortable working independently and as part of a teamPassionate about precision engineeringWhy join?This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing engineering business where you'll support the manufacture of innovative, high-precision products supplied to customers worldwide.Working within a highly skilled Toolroom team, you'll contribute to prototype development, tooling manufacture and continuous improvement while enjoying long-term career development opportunities.Salary & BenefitsCompetitive salary25 days holiday plus bank holidaysAdditional 3 days' leave over the festive periodCompany bonus schemeCompany pensionLife Assurance (3x salary)Employee Assistance ProgrammeOngoing training and career developmentInterested?If you're an experienced Manual Machinist, Toolroom Machinist, Precision Machinist or Service Centre Operator looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.Apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion.Kingdom People are acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.TPBN1_UKTJ