Shima & Stoll Knitting Machine Operator

We are looking for an experienced Shima & Stoll Knitting Machine Operator to join our production team on a part-time, shift-based basis. You will operate our Shima and Stoll computerised knitting machines across sampling and production, working closely with our programmers and wider production team to produce high-quality fully fashioned knitwear.This is a 3–6 month fixed-term position, with the possibility of extension. The role is based on-site at our studio in Leyton, East London, with shifts agreed in advance around production requirements.

What you will be doing

• Operating Shima and Stoll computerized knitting machines to produce fully fashioned knitwear
• Setting up machines and preparing them for production
• Loading yarn, starting programmes and monitoring machines throughout production
• Checking knitted panels for quality, tension, sizing and consistency
• Identifying and resolving basic machine or knitting issues
• Working closely with programmers to ensure programmes are running correctly
• Making minor adjustments to machine settings where required
• Keeping accurate records of knitting output and any issues encountered
• Carrying out regular machine checks and keeping the work area clean and organised
• Supporting the wider production team with panel preparation and quality control
• Working to production schedules and agreed deadlines
• Handling premium and natural fibres with care, including wool, cashmere and other fine yarns

What you will bring

• Previous experience operating Shima and/or Stoll computerized knitting machines
• Good understanding of machine knitting and fully fashioned knitwear
• Experience working with different gauges and yarn types
• Good eye for quality and attention to detail
• Ability to identify faults, dropped stitches, tension issues and other knitting problems
• Comfortable working independently while also communicating with programmers and the wider production team
• Previous experience in a knitwear factory, sampling studio or similar production environment is desirable
• Experience with both Shima and Stoll machines is highly desirable

How you work

• Careful and detail-oriented
• Reliable and organised
• Takes pride in producing high quality work
• Comfortable working to deadlines and production targets
• Practical and solution-focused when problems arise
• Communicates clearly with colleagues
• Able to work independently and take responsibility for your workload
• Interested in knitwear, machinery and technical production

What you can expect from us

• Opportunity to work across Shima and Stoll computerized knitting machines
• Work with high quality natural fibres including British wool, lambswool, cashmere and other premium yarns
• Variety of sampling, development and production work
• Small, skilled production team with hands-on training and support
• Opportunity to develop your technical knitting and machine-operating skills
• Work on knitwear for fashion, commercial and creative clients
• A practical, hands-on studio environment

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