Job Description

Company Overview

Village Gates Ltd is a specialist manufacturer of high-quality mortice and tenon wooden gates. We take pride in our craftsmanship, streamlined processes, and a relentless focus on detail--delivering premium gates that exceed expectations.

We're looking for a motivated, experienced Bench Joiner to join our team with a clear opportunity to progress into a Team Leader role. You'll start on the bench, working shoulder to shoulder with our team of 4-6 joiners, mastering our process and standards--then step into leadership once onboarded and proven.

Job Summary

This is a hands-on joinery role with a clear leadership track. You'll begin by contributing directly to production--manufacturing gates to a high standard--while gradually taking on more responsibility for keeping the workshop organised, productive, and on track.

Once the onboarding period is complete and performance is demonstrated, the role transitions into Team Leader--combining bench work with daily oversight of production, team performance, quality, and workshop operations.

You'll need strong joinery skills, high personal standards, and the potential to lead with authority, consistency, and fairness.

Key Responsibilities

1. Production Management

Carry out and oversee the manufacturing of wooden gates, ensuring efficiency and quality. Manage production schedules to meet deadlines and customer expectations. Assign work to joiners based on skill level and workload. Monitor progress, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to improve workflow. Ensure all materials and components are available for production.

2. Quality Control

Ensure all products meet high-quality standards before dispatch. Conduct inspections throughout the production process to maintain consistency. Address quality issues proactively and provide feedback to the team.

3. Team Leadership & Supervision

Work alongside the team while giving clear instructions and setting daily expectations. Support and guide joiners on the job, sharing experience and training where needed. Encourage pride in craftsmanship, good habits, and personal responsibility. Identify when people are struggling or off track and help get things back on course. Conduct morning briefings to align the team on daily tasks and priorities.

4. Health & Safety Compliance

Ensure all staff follow health and safety regulations and company policies. Conduct regular checks to ensure machinery and tools are used safely. Ensure PPE is worn and safety procedures are followed. Maintain a clean and hazard-free work environment.

5. Equipment & Maintenance

Ensure all woodworking machinery is in good working order. Implement a regular maintenance schedule for workshop equipment. Report and arrange repairs for faulty machinery.

6. Stock & Materials Management

Monitor and manage stock levels of timber, finishes, and consumables. Work with office staff to ensure materials are ordered in a timely manner. Minimise waste and ensure efficient use of materials.

7. Installation & Logistics Coordination

Coordinate workshop output with installation schedules. Ensure gates are ready for delivery or collection on time. Communicate with office staff regarding order progress and any delays.

8. Process Improvement & Efficiency

Identify opportunities for improving productivity and reducing waste. Implement best practices for joinery and workshop organisation. Work closely with management to refine workflows and processes.

Required Skills & Experience

Experience in a similar supervisory role in woodworking, joinery, or manufacturing. Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Understanding of woodworking machinery, tools, and mortice and tenon joinery. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings. Strong organisational and time management skills. Knowledge of health and safety regulations in a workshop environment. Ability to drive team performance and enforce accountability.

Desirable Skills

Formal qualification in joinery, carpentry, or woodworking. Experience implementing lean manufacturing or continuous improvement processes.

What We Offer

Competitive salary based on experience. Opportunity to play a key role in a growing family business. Opportunities for training and professional development.
If you're ready to lead a skilled team and take ownership of workshop operations in a growing, quality-focused business, we'd love to hear from you.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to info@villagegates.co.uk.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 33,000.00-37,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person