CAD Operator

We're looking for our next CAD/CAM Operator to join the Design Team at Ralegh (Manby). This is more than just a job opportunity; it's a chance to learn a specialist skill, develop valuable technical expertise, and build a long‑term career with DS Smith. As part of a planned succession and knowledge‑transfer programme, you'll work closely with experienced colleagues, gaining hands‑on experience and learning the role from the ground up.

This unique opportunity has been created to support the transfer of specialist knowledge ahead of the retirement of a valued team member in 2027. We welcome applications from both experienced candidates and those at the beginning of their career journey who are eager to learn, develop and grow within a manufacturing environment. If you have strong computer skills, a keen eye for detail and a positive attitude, we'll provide the training and support needed to help you succeed.

As a CAD/CAM Operator, you will play a key role in transforming customer requirements into precise manufacturing solutions. Working closely with customers, production teams and colleagues across the business, you will use drawings, specifications and technical information to design flatbed and rotary cutting dies ready for manufacture. This role requires attention to detail, a methodical approach and a passion for continuous improvement.

You'll help ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality, accuracy and efficiency while contributing to the ongoing development of our design and manufacturing processes.

• Produce CAD/CAM designs for flatbed and rotary cutting dies using customer drawings, specifications and technical information.
• Interpret customer requirements and accurately translate these into manufacturing‑ready outputs.
• Prepare and process CAD/CAM data in line with customer and production requirements.
• Distribute design and manufacturing information to relevant production departments.
• Work closely with customers, production colleagues and the Team Leader to ensure projects are completed accurately and on time.
• Carry out quality checks on completed designs to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Identify, report and support the resolution of quality issues and non‑conformities.
• Contribute ideas and recommendations that support continuous improvement initiatives across the department.
• Monitor performance against production targets and support operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure critical information is available to support manufacturing processes.
• Adhere to all Health & Safety policies, procedures and best practices.
• Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
• Support wider business objectives through additional departmental duties as required.

We're looking for someone who enjoys problem‑solving, embraces learning opportunities and takes pride in delivering high‑quality work. Whether you're already experienced in CAD/CAM or looking to start a career in a technical manufacturing environment, you'll be motivated to learn, willing to develop new skills, and committed to continuous improvement. Full training and mentoring will be provided, making this an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a long‑term career with DS Smith.

• Comfortable using computers and learning new software systems.
• Methodical, organised and able to work accurately under deadlines.
• Able to understand and interpret technical drawings and specifications, or keen to develop these skills.
• Detail‑oriented with a strong focus on quality and accuracy.
• Capable of managing multiple priorities whilst achieving planned targets.
• A confident communicator who can build effective relationships with…