Job Description

Griffin Woodhouse

is a long-established UK manufacturer based in

Cradley Heath

specialising in high-quality steel products, including chain, shackles, mooring components and associated hardware. We supply to a wide range of industrial sectors, including marine, defence, oil & gas, and heavy engineering.

We are seeking a reliable and hands-on

Works Operative

to support the day-to-day running of our manufacturing site. Our historical workshop is partially exposed to the elements, so candidates must be comfortable working in cold, dirty, and physically demanding conditions.

You will work largely independently on the shop floor, with daily guidance and support from the Operations Manager, and the General Manager and Managing Director where needed.

Our company is built on a strong commitment to:

Quality workmanship Quality goods Full compliance with customer requirements and industry regulations Meeting order deadlines and operational targets
We are looking for someone who shares these values and can work both accurately and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations

Opening and locking up the site each day. Managing the goods-inward and goods-outward doors. Safely loading and unloading deliveries and collections via forklift.

Workshop & Production Tasks

Reading and understanding job paperwork and manufacturing drawings. Performing goods-inward checks, including basic quality inspection and dimensional verification. Taking measurements and markings, completing all paperwork clearly and accurately. Carrying out grinding, painting, and hard stamping duties amongst others. Preparing goods for despatch, including providing accurate weights, dimensions, and correct labelling. Ensuring all work meets required quality standards and compliance expectations.

General Site Maintenance

Maintaining a tidy, safe, and organised workshop, yard, and stock areas. Supporting light maintenance and general practical tasks around the site.

Workflow & Communication

Working closely with the Operations Manager to follow daily/weekly priorities. Following detailed works instructions. Communicating issues, delays, or concerns promptly to ensure deadlines and operational goals are met.

Required Skills & Experience

Essential:

Counterbalance forklift experience and licence (in-house or external). Experience with basic workshop tools (grinders, paint tools, measuring equipment). Ability to carry out physical, manual work in a demanding workshop environment. Ability to measure, record information accurately, and follow written instructions. Strong reliability, attention to detail, and a quality-first mindset.

Desirable:

Background in metalwork, fabrication, foundry work, or similar industrial environments. Clean, valid UK driving licence. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

What We're Looking For

Someone robust, practical, and hands-on. A person who takes pride in quality, compliance, and accuracy. Someone who works well independently but communicates effectively within the team. A proactive individual who uses initiative to maintain workflow and site standards.

What We Offer

Training and support from an experienced management team. Clear structure, priorities, and expectations. Stable hours with an early Friday finish (Mon to Thurs 9am to 5pm, Fri 9am to 2pm). 24k - 27k gross per annum (subject to experience). 20 days holiday plus bank holidays. Full PPE provided.

Start Date

January 2026, with informal interviews taking place before we break up for Christmas on 19th December.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 24,000.00-27,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Application question(s):

Do you have forklift experience with an in-house or external licence? Are you comfortable working alone?
Work Location: In person