About Us
It takes a whole lot of passion to be at the centre of what makes a house feel like home — and that’s just what we do at DFS. We’re the leading sofa retail specialist in the UK, helping people find a comfy seat on great quality sofas since 1969.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and reliable Apprentice Wood Machinist to join our production team. This role includes learning to achieve Level 2 Wood Machinery Standard (STO976) and will be delivered as part of a structured apprenticeship programme.
Highlights
- Competitive Pay & Work‑Life Balance – annual salary of £25,866 per annum, reliable schedule and weekly pay while training.
- Piece work after training – an average machinist earns £16.90 per hour.
- Working Hours – 39 hours on average on a rotating two‑shift pattern. Morning Shift: Monday to Thursday 6:00‑14:00, Friday 6:00‑13:00. Afternoon Shift: Monday to Wednesday 14:00‑00:00, Thursday 14:00‑23:00 (four‑day week with a long weekend).
- Generous holiday allowance – the more time you’re with us, the more you’ll get.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
- 30% off DFS and Sofology products for yourself and discounts for friends and family, plus savings at big brands.
- Wellbeing perks – access to healthcare services, an Employee Assistance Programme and discounted gym memberships.
- Pension and savings – join our Group Pension and Sharesave schemes.
- Life Assurance & Sick Pay – peace of mind with Life Assurance and Company Sick Pay.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Learn to operate a variety of woodworking machinery safely and efficiently under supervision.
- Assist skilled machinists with the setup, operation and maintenance of multiple wood‑processing machines.
- Follow production schedules and quality standards to ensure products meet specifications.
- Measure, cut, shape and prepare timber and wood‑based materials.
- Carry out routine machine checks and report any faults or maintenance requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
- Adhere to all company health, safety and quality procedures.
- Participate fully in apprenticeship training and workplace learning activities.
Training & Development
- Complete a 15‑18 month structured apprenticeship programme delivered by Webbs Training in Nottingham (Day Release).
- Receive practical, hands‑on training from experienced wood machinists across a range of woodworking machines and manufacturing processes.
- Develop knowledge of machine setup, tooling, maintenance, technical drawings, quality standards and safe working practices.
- Work towards achieving the relevant apprenticeship qualification and industry‑recognised certifications.
Commitment to Inclusion
We’re committed to a culture where everyone feels welcome, valued, and can thrive at work. We celebrate diverse voices, champion inclusion and support each other through our growing colleague networks. We invest in partnerships that drive change, such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, Doncaster Pride, Carers UK and our Diversity in Retail programmes. We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to building a workplace that reflects the communities we serve.
All roles are subject to satisfactory DBS checks.
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