Machine Operator
| Posting date: | 18 March 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | Competitive Salary & Benefits |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 17 April 2026 |
| Location: | DE4 5AG |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | John Smedley Limited |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: |
Summary
Knitting Machine Operator
Full Time | Permanent
Competitive Salary & Benefits
32 Days Holiday
Be part of 240 years of British knitwear excellence
Are you practical, hands-on, and keen to learn a specialist craft?
At John Smedley, we’ve been creating the world’s finest knitwear for over two centuries. Our craftsmanship starts at the very beginning of the production process — and our Knitting team plays a vital role in bringing our garments to life.
We’re looking for Knitting Machine Operators to join our manufacturing team. This is a full-time role working across a rotating three-week shift pattern (days, afternoons, and nights), so flexibility is key. Whether you’re an experienced knitwear technician or new to the industry, if you have the right attitude and a willingness to learn, we’ll provide the training and support you need to succeed.
What You’ll Do:
As a Knitting Machine Operator, you’ll:
• Operate and monitor knitting machines to produce high-quality garments.
• Follow production schedules to meet output and quality targets.
• Carry out basic machine adjustments and maintenance.
• Identify and resolve minor faults or escalate issues when needed.
• Work closely with colleagues to ensure smooth production flow.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment.
• Uphold John Smedley’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship in every piece produced.
Who You Are:
• Have strong attention to detail and take pride in your work.
• Enjoy hands-on, practical work in a production environment.
• Work well as part of a team and support those around you.
• Are flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and shift patterns.
• Can stay focused and perform under production targets.
• Are proactive, organised, and solutions-focused.
Skills & Experience You’ll Bring:
Desired:
• Experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or factory environment.
• Previous experience with knitting machines or textile production.
Essential:
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills.
• Ability to follow processes and work to production schedules.
Why John Smedley?
• Be part of a globally recognised British heritage brand.
• Full training provided to support your development.
• Work in a supportive, collaborative production environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Generous employee discount on our luxury knitwear.
• 32 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• Free on-site parking.
• Access to wellbeing programmes and Culture Club activities.
Ready to learn a craft and be part of something exceptional?
Apply now and start your journey with John Smedley.
Full Time | Permanent
Competitive Salary & Benefits
32 Days Holiday
Be part of 240 years of British knitwear excellence
Are you practical, hands-on, and keen to learn a specialist craft?
At John Smedley, we’ve been creating the world’s finest knitwear for over two centuries. Our craftsmanship starts at the very beginning of the production process — and our Knitting team plays a vital role in bringing our garments to life.
We’re looking for Knitting Machine Operators to join our manufacturing team. This is a full-time role working across a rotating three-week shift pattern (days, afternoons, and nights), so flexibility is key. Whether you’re an experienced knitwear technician or new to the industry, if you have the right attitude and a willingness to learn, we’ll provide the training and support you need to succeed.
What You’ll Do:
As a Knitting Machine Operator, you’ll:
• Operate and monitor knitting machines to produce high-quality garments.
• Follow production schedules to meet output and quality targets.
• Carry out basic machine adjustments and maintenance.
• Identify and resolve minor faults or escalate issues when needed.
• Work closely with colleagues to ensure smooth production flow.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment.
• Uphold John Smedley’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship in every piece produced.
Who You Are:
• Have strong attention to detail and take pride in your work.
• Enjoy hands-on, practical work in a production environment.
• Work well as part of a team and support those around you.
• Are flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and shift patterns.
• Can stay focused and perform under production targets.
• Are proactive, organised, and solutions-focused.
Skills & Experience You’ll Bring:
Desired:
• Experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or factory environment.
• Previous experience with knitting machines or textile production.
Essential:
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills.
• Ability to follow processes and work to production schedules.
Why John Smedley?
• Be part of a globally recognised British heritage brand.
• Full training provided to support your development.
• Work in a supportive, collaborative production environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Generous employee discount on our luxury knitwear.
• 32 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• Free on-site parking.
• Access to wellbeing programmes and Culture Club activities.
Ready to learn a craft and be part of something exceptional?
Apply now and start your journey with John Smedley.