Join a Heritage Textile Company — Become Our Mechanical Engineer
Salary: From £15.00 per hour
Hours:
* Mon–Thu: 7:45am – 4:15pm, Fri: 7:45am – 3:15pm
Start Date: Immediate
Who We Are
Z. Hinchliffe & Sons Ltd is one of the UK's oldest and most respected fine-woollen spinners, crafting luxury yarns since 1766. Based in the picturesque village of Denby Dale, we combine centuries of tradition with state-of-the-art machinery to produce exquisite lambswool, cashmere, camel hair, and angora yarns for clients around the world. We are deeply committed to sustainability, sourcing responsibly, avoiding harmful chemicals in our dyeing, and constantly reducing our carbon footprint.
As we undertake a key relocation project in our mill, we are looking for a hands-on, driven Textile Mechanical Engineer to play an integral role in our operations and future growth.
What You'll Do
You will be at the heart of the action, working on real, heavy-duty machines and ensuring our mill runs smoothly:
* Disassemble, transport, reassemble, and commission woollen textile machinery
* Move and install blending, carding, and related plant equipment
* Load/unload machinery safely onto wagons and within the site
* Identify, repair, and replace worn or failed mechanical components
* Perform regular inspections and preventative maintenance
* Collaborate closely with operations, production, and logistics teams to deliver safe, efficient relocations
* Occasionally assist in weekend or shift work during peak phases
What We're Looking For
We believe in hiring people who bring both skill and attitude. Here's what will make you successful:
Essential:
* Mechanical engineering experience (ideally hands-on)
* Previous exposure to textile or manufacturing environments is a plus
* Strong literacy and numeracy skills
* Full UK driving licence
* Comfortable performing physical work, including lifting and working outdoors
* Ability to stand, climb, and manoeuvre heavy parts for extended periods
Desirable:
* Mechanical qualification
* Forklift or similar plant licence
* Familiarity working with blending, carding, or spinning machinery
* Experience in machine commissioning or relocation
Personal Traits:
* Excellent team player with clear communication
* Dependable, flexible, and positive willing to "get stuck in"
* Pride in doing the job right, with attention to detail
* Safety minded and proactive about process improvements
Why Work with Us?
* Be part of a storied, values-driven company with over 250 years of history
* Work in a rural Yorkshire setting with close-knit teams
* Gain experience across the full life cycle of textile machinery
* Opportunity to expand your mechanical skills in a specialty industry
* Contribute to a business that cares about environmental and ethical sourcing
Important Logistics & Extras
* Own transport is recommended (site is in a rural setting with limited public transport)
* Occasional weekend or shift work may be required
* This is a physically demanding role heavy lifting, and outdoor tasks are part of the job
* All work is on-site at Hartcliffe Mills, Denby Dale
Ready to Join Us?
If you're a practical, talented mechanical engineer who wants more than "just another job" and you'd like to help shape the future of a historic textile business we'd love to hear from you.
To apply: If you're an experienced mechanical engineer looking to work with a respected company in the textile industry, apply now to join the team at Z. Hinchliffe & Sons Ltd.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £15.00 per hour
Benefits:
* Company pension
Work Location: In person