Lean Manufacturing Apprentice
Sheffield | Inkerman Silver – Over 150 Years of Craftsmanship
£16,000 per year | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
On-site parking available | 30 days holiday per year
On-site training & study with TACS
About Us
Inkerman Silver is a family-run cutlery and silverware manufacturer based in Sheffield, a city renowned for its craftsmanship. With over 150 years of heritage, we combine traditional silversmithing skills with modern Lean Manufacturing techniques to produce some of the finest cutlery and silverware in the world.
We are offering an exciting opportunity for a Lean Manufacturing Apprentice to join our team, develop hands-on skills, and gain a nationally recognized qualification through TACS – all while earning a salary.
Role Overview
As a Lean Manufacturing Apprentice, you will work alongside skilled craftspeople and production teams, learning the full process of cutlery and silverware production, cabinet-making, assembly, and quality control. With full support from our team and all training taking place on-site, you’ll develop valuable skills in precision manufacturing, woodworking, polishing, quality assurance, and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing & Assembly:
• Assist in the production, polishing, and finishing of high-quality cutlery and silverware to meet our premium craftsmanship standards.
• Learn how to craft wooden cutlery cabinets, applying traditional woodworking techniques.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical drawings, and work instructions.
• Ensure components are aligned and assembled with precision and attention to detail.
Quality Control & Process Improvement:
• Inspect materials and components for quality, defects, or damage.
• Perform quality checks on finished products before dispatch.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Principles.
Health & Safety Compliance:
• Adhere to health and safety regulations, including wearing correct PPE.
• Use tools and machinery safely and efficiently.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace and ensure safe waste disposal.
Machine, Tool & Woodworking Operation:
• Learn to operate key manufacturing equipment such as presses, grinders, polishing machines, CNC machines, hand tools, and woodworking tools.
• Assist in the safe setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery.
• Gain experience in woodworking techniques for making cutlery cabinets, including cutting, sanding, assembly, and finishing.
Logistics & Workflow Support:
• Help with goods-in inspection, checking raw materials for quality and quantity.
• Support packing, loading, and unloading of finished goods for shipping.
• Use internal systems to track production progress and report issues.
Training & Development (TACS Apprenticeship):
• Gain a nationally recognized qualification in Lean Manufacturing through TACS.
• All training and study will take place on-site, with full support from our team.
• Learn industry-leading techniques in Lean Manufacturing, process improvement, quality control, polishing, and woodworking.
What We’re Looking For
Passion for craftsmanship, precision, and hands-on work.
Strong attention to detail and quality.
Interest in both metalwork and woodworking.
Willingness to learn and apply Lean Manufacturing techniques.
Ability to follow instructions, work in a team, and problem-solve.
Enthusiastic about Sheffield’s rich heritage in cutlery and silverware.
Why Join Inkerman Silver?
Be part of a company with over 150 years of craftsmanship and excellence.
Earn while you learn – £16,000 per year with a full apprenticeship program.
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM – no weekend work required.
30 days holiday per year for a great work-life balance.
All training & study on-site with TACS – no need for off-site college days.
Hands-on experience in metalwork, polishing, and woodworking.
Career progression opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, and cabinet-making.
On-site parking available for easy commuting.
Ready to start your career in cutlery, silverware, and cabinet-making? Apply today!