Craftsperson Operative

**Craftsperson Operative**

**Company Overview**:
Somerset Willow is a leading UK manufacturer of premium handmade willow products, supplying industries ranging from funerals to interiors and fashion. Our commitment to craftsmanship and quality has earned us a strong reputation at home and internationally.

**Role Overview**:
Are you passionate about craftsmanship and hands-on work? Somerset Willow is looking for a motivated individual to join our team as a Willow Craftsman. You'll learn time-honoured weaving techniques and help create premium handmade willow products cherished by customers across the UK and abroad.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Handcraft willow coffins and baskets using traditional techniques
- Collaborate with colleagues and report directly to the Production Manager.
- Follow detailed templates and specifications to ensure consistency and quality.
- Meet daily and weekly production targets without compromising craftsmanship.
- Prepare and maintain willow rods, including soaking, sorting, and shaping.
- Safely use and maintain hand tools such as knives, secateurs, and hammers.
- Inspect materials and finished products for quality assurance.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organised work environment.

**Requirments Essential**
- Strong manual dexterity and fine motor skills.
- Patience and ability to focus on detailed, repetitive tasks.
- Openness to learning traditional craftsmanship techniques.
- High attention to detail and pride in producing quality work.
- Physical stamina — ability to stand, bend, and handle tough materials.
- Strong time management and ability to work to deadlines.
- Confidence in using and maintaining basic hand tools safely.

**Requirements - Desirable**
- Good visual and spatial awareness for symmetry and proportion.
- Experience in traditional crafts (basketry, weaving, furniture-making, leatherwork).
- Familiarity with natural materials like willow or rattan.
- Ability to maintain consistency in repetitive production tasks.

**-**Basic woodworking or carpentry skills.

**-**Passion for traditional crafts and heritage skills.

**Job Details**:

- **Hours**: Full-time, 40 hours per week.
- **Schedule**: Monday to Friday, 07:30 am to 4:00 pm
- **Starting Salary**: £26,000 per year (£12.50ph)
- **Ongoing Training**: Potential to earn up to £33,352 with full training.
- **Overtime & Bonuses**:Total earnings can reach up to £44,850 per year

**Company Benefits**:

- Four weeks' holiday plus bank holidays
- Annual Pay Review.
- Additional holiday for continued service.
- An additional week off at Christmas.
- 50% off Company products
- Breakfast Club from Tuesday to Thursday
- Regular social events
- Accident and disability insurance
- Regular social events
- Optional overtime (paid at x1.25)

**Further Information**:
**Closing Date**:

- 21st November 2025,
**Interview Date** - W/C 24th November 2025 - Subject to change

**How to Apply**:
**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £26,883.00-£27,908.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Bridgwater TA6: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person