Tackler (Weaving Machinery Technician)
Location: Long Melford, Suffolk
Shift Pattern: Shift-based role (includes unsociable hours)
Department: Production / Technical
About the Role
We are looking for a Tackler to support our weaving production team by maintaining and setting powered weaving machinery, including rapier dobby and jacquard looms.
This is a hands-on mechanical role within the weaving industry, focused on keeping machinery running safely, efficiently and to a high standard. The equipment is a range of old and new, and your work will help maximise uptime, quality and productivity across the weaving shed.
You'll work as part of a team of Tacklers, carrying out a mix of reactive breakdown support, planned preventative maintenance and machine setting.
Key Responsibilities
Carry out preventative and reactive maintenance on weaving machinery and associated equipment
Respond quickly to technical calls from Weavers to minimise downtime
Set and adjust looms to ensure optimum weaving performance and fabric quality
Follow manufacturer guidelines, company procedures and strict Health & Safety standards
Complete maintenance logs accurately for traceability and accountability
Work from weekly maintenance schedules set by Engineering Support and the Technical Manager
Manage bench repairs and maintain a steady stock of repaired parts
Book out spare parts correctly and report equipment issues
Support production teams where required to meet output and efficiency targets
Take part in risk assessments, team meetings and continuous improvement activities
Who You'll Work With
Reporting to the Technical Manager
Working closely with Engineering Support, Production, Weavers and Inspection teams
Communicating machine condition, faults and fabric issues clearly to support production planning
What We're Looking For
Essential:
Ability to weave a loom (training provided if new to the weaving industry)
Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving mindset
Manual dexterity and good eyesight for intricate work
Comfortable with physically demanding tasks and working at height
Willingness to work a shift pattern, including unsociable hours
Good communication skills for clear handovers and reporting
Able to manage own workload and follow technical instruction
Computer literate
Desirable:
Mechanical background with experience using hand tools
Experience working with weaving machinery (ideally 3+ years as a Tackler)
GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths, English, Science and Technology
Why Join Us?
Full training provided on company machinery and safe systems of work
Be part of a skilled technical team in a specialist manufacturing environment
Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement in safety, quality and productivity
Interested?
Apply now to discuss this opportunity in further detail