Tackler (Weaving Machinery Technician)
Location: Long Melford, Suffolk
Shift Pattern: Shift-based role (includes unsociable hours)
Department: Production / Technical
About the Role
We are looking for a Tackler to support our weaving production team by maintaining and setting powered weaving machinery, including rapier dobby and jacquard looms.
This is a hands-on mechanical role within the weaving industry, focused on keeping machinery running safely, efficiently and to a high standard. The equipment is a range of old and new, and your work will help maximise uptime, quality and productivity across the weaving shed.
You’ll work as part of a team of Tacklers, carrying out a mix of reactive breakdown support, planned preventative maintenance and machine setting.
Key Responsibilities
*Carry out preventative and reactive maintenance on weaving machinery and associated equipment
*Respond quickly to technical calls from Weavers to minimise downtime
*Set and adjust looms to ensure optimum weaving performance and fabric quality
*Follow manufacturer guidelines, company procedures and strict Health & Safety standards
*Complete maintenance logs accurately for traceability and accountability
*Work from weekly maintenance schedules set by Engineering Support and the Technical Manager
*Manage bench repairs and maintain a steady stock of repaired parts
*Book out spare parts correctly and report equipment issues
*Support production teams where required to meet output and efficiency targets
*Take part in risk assessments, team meetings and continuous improvement activities
Who You’ll Work With
*Reporting to the Technical Manager
*Working closely with Engineering Support, Production, Weavers and Inspection teams
*Communicating machine condition, faults and fabric issues clearly to support production planning
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
*Ability to weave a loom (training provided if new to the weaving industry)
*Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving mindset
*Manual dexterity and good eyesight for intricate work
*Comfortable with physically demanding tasks and working at height
*Willingness to work a shift pattern, including unsociable hours
*Good communication skills for clear handovers and reporting
*Able to manage own workload and follow technical instruction
*Computer literate
Desirable:
*Mechanical background with experience using hand tools
*Experience working with weaving machinery (ideally 3+ years as a Tackler)
*GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths, English, Science and Technology
Why Join Us?
*Full training provided on company machinery and safe systems of work
*Be part of a skilled technical team in a specialist manufacturing environment
*Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement in safety, quality and productivity
Interested?
Apply now to discuss this opportunity in further detail