Established in 1975 Industrial Metal Services have been competitively serving the steel industry for 50 years.
We offer a wide range of products for the construction and engineering industries. Our growing range of steel processing services includes cut to length, drilling, shot blasting and profiling, ensuring we can meet a varied range of customer specifications.
Forming part of the Barclay and Mathieson Group, (B&M) we are one of the largest steel stockholders and processors in the UK, with 500 employees.
B&M group pride itself in being a fast paced and consistently improving company where our employees are our most valuable assets, embedding our core values of Innovation, Inspiration, Collaboration, Integrity and Excellence in everything we do. With depots and service centres nationwide, we're always looking for people to join us.
We're looking for a Trainee CAD Operator (Apprentice) to join our Production team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to begin or develop a career in CAD or manufacturing within the steel industry.
As a trainee, you will learn how to interpret technical drawings, process CAD files and support the production of steel components. You'll receive structured training, on-the-job mentoring from experienced team members, and the opportunity to complete relevant external training as part of your apprenticeship. Our aim is to support you in building the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to become a competent CAD Operator.
Role Overview
As a Trainee CAD Operator, you will support the Drawing Office and Production team in preparing and processing customer drawings and NC files. Over time, you will learn how to optimise cutting patterns, understand machine capabilities, and ensure customer requirements are accurately translated into production-ready information.
Key Responsibilities (with training and support):
Learn to import NC files and customer drawings into CAD software.
Assist with checking and cleaning DXF/DWG files to prepare them for nesting.
Support the nesting of drilling and cutting jobs to minimise material waste.
Learn how to identify suitable cutting methods (plasma, gas, laser) based on material type and thickness.
Help prepare detailed job packs for production, including drawing revisions and cutting patterns.
Support the creation and amendment of drawings for customer approval.
Assist the Sales team with processing cutting lists and basic feasibility checks.
Generate cutting patterns for production planning under supervision.
Learn how to understand machine capabilities and limitations.
Help maintain accurate documentation and records within company systems (e.g. Stockmaster).
Support stock control processes and the tracking of materials where required.
Contribute to reporting and continuous improvement activities, including optimisation and waste reduction.
Skills and Qualities We're Looking For:
A genuine interest in engineering, manufacturing or technical drawing.
Eagerness to learn and develop new skills.
Good attention to detail and willingness to work accurately.
Basic IT skills (Microsoft Office and general computer use).
An interest in or basic understanding of CAD software (training will be provided).
Good communication skills and the confidence to ask questions.
A positive attitude and the ability to work as part of a team.
What We Offer:
A structured apprenticeship pathway.
Ongoing mentoring and support from experienced CAD and production professionals.
Opportunities for long-term progression within the business.
A supportive environment where learning and development are encouraged.
Benefits:
Annual performance bonus
Life assurance
Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
Taste Card
Free mortgage, legal and health advice
Free will writing service
Free health screening
Free eye tests
Development opportunities
Access to mental health first aiders
Employee referral program
Pension scheme
Extra holiday for long service
Birthday day off
Special leave for significant life events, such as marriage, childbirth, or adoption
Buy Holiday Scheme