Overview:

Material Cutters play a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, particularly in the production of fashion and textile items ranging from handbags and shoes to clothing, tents, and industrial textiles. Their primary responsibility is to cut specified material components by hand or using machines, ensuring adherence to cutting instructions, quality standards, and production targets. They work in a production environment, often in a dedicated cutting room, where they select materials, estimate material requirements, inspect material quality, and cut components according to specifications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cutting Preparation: Receive, interpret, and plan cutting schedules based on instructions, material availability, and production targets.
• Material Selection and Inspection Select materials, check for quality issues, and report shortages. Transport materials safely to the cutting area.
• Material Preparation: Estimate material requirements, prepare materials for cutting, and ensure proper material spreading and laying.
• Quality Inspection: Inspect materials for quality issues and report flaws such as shading, holes, marks, or discoloration.
• Cutting Process: Apply cutting instructions and techniques, either manually or using automated equipment, to cut materials accurately while minimizing waste.
• Issue Reporting: Report any issues related to quality, quantity, equipment, workload, or deadlines to supervisors or relevant personnel.
• Equipment Maintenance: Conduct first-line preventative maintenance on cutting equipment to ensure efficient performance.
• Component Handling: Identify, bundle, label, and pass cut components to the next stage of the manufacturing process.
• Documentation: Complete documentation related to the cutting process, such as work dockets or production sheets.
• Continuous Improvement: Support continuous improvement activities by implementing lean techniques and contributing ideas for process enhancement.

Knowledge:

• Understanding of the material cutter’s role within the production operation and knowledge of operational insights, production processes, and quality requirements.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, environmental considerations, and workstation ergonomics.
• Familiarity with material characteristics, cutting techniques, equipment maintenance, documentation requirements, and continuous improvement techniques.

Skills:

• Ability to read, interpret, and follow cutting instructions and specifications.
• Proficiency in estimating material requirements, selecting materials, and preparing materials for cutting.
• Skill in using cutting tools and equipment, conducting quality inspections, and maintaining equipment.
• Competence in handling components, identifying and reporting issues, and completing documentation accurately.
• Effective communication skills for verbal and written interactions with colleagues and supervisors.

Qualifications:

Apprentices must complete mandatory English and Maths qualifications as part of the apprenticeship framework.