Your new company A leading UK-based manufacturer of high-precision optical components and certified reference materials. With over 60 years of continuous operation and exports to more than 90 countries, this family-owned business is known for its technical excellence, product reliability, and long-term stability. The company operates from a modern facility in Essex and serves a diverse global customer base across scientific, analytical, and industrial sectors. Your new role This is a full-time, hands-on production role for an experienced Scientific Glass Blower. You'll be responsible for manufacturing distortion-free scientific glassware and optical sampling components to exacting specifications. The work involves both freehand bench techniques and machine-based glass forming using lathes, in a fast-paced environment where precision and consistency are critical.You'll collaborate with skilled fusers and technical teams, working from detailed technical drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions. This is not an artistic or studio-based role, it's a technical manufacturing position requiring high levels of accuracy and craftsmanship. What you'll need to succeed Key Responsibilities Manufacture precision glassware and optical components using quartz and pyrex Operate glass lathes and perform freehand bench work Interpret and work from technical drawings and production instructions Maintain tools, equipment, and a safe working environment Support and train junior glass workers where appropriate Contribute to continuous improvement and production efficiency What We're Looking For Minimum 5 years' experience in scientific glassblowing (preferably in a production setting) Skilled in both bench and lathe work Proven experience working with quartz and pyrex materials Strong hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and numeracy Ability to work independently and as part of a team Comfortable interpreting technical documentation Desirable: LEAN mindset and mentoring experience What you'll get in return Competitive salary based on experience Long-term job security in a stable, well-established business Company pension scheme Private health insurance (after 6 months) Company sick pay (after 6 months) Employee Assistance Programme Retail discounts via Extras Death-in-service benefit Cycle to Work scheme What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.