Apprentice – Fleece Preparation at H Dawson

Pay: £24,786 per year
Location: Salts Mill (In person)
Job Type: Full‑time HRS 8/4

About H Dawson

H Dawson is home to a family of purpose‑driven brands, including HDWool and Woolkeepers™, all united by a mission to use wool as a force for good. For over 137 years, we’ve led the international wool trade and pioneered industry firsts—from the UK’s first commercially traceable wool to the first British wool garment insulation and animal‑welfare standard with Red Tractor.

Woolkeepers™—our community of British farmers—was created to bring transparency, fairness and profitability back to wool growing. Joining us means becoming part of a team committed to sustainability and supporting British farming.

 The Role: Apprentice – Fleece Preparation

We are looking for a motivated and hands‑on Apprentice in Fleece Preparation to join our team at Salts Mill. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn a unique heritage skill and play a key role in preparing British wool for certified, traceable supply chains.

You’ll work alongside experienced team members who will train you in the full fleece preparation process—from handling raw wool to preparing it for grading, traceability and pressing.

 Key Responsibilities

As an apprentice, you will be trained to:

• Prepare raw fleeces for processing, including sorting, skirting and organising batches
• Support full fleece traceability using internal digital systems
• Work within multiple certification schemes (e.g., RWS, Organic, Regen, Red Tractor)
• Assist with manual stock handling and forklift operations
• Operate a hydraulic wool press under supervision
• Maintain a clean, safe and efficient working environment

Skills & Experience

No prior experience in fleece preparation or wool handling is required — full training will be provided. We’re looking for someone who brings:

• A positive, practical and team‑focused attitude
• Willingness to learn a specialised, hands‑on skill
• Good IT skills (email, Excel, stock systems)
• Forklift licence beneficial, but training can be provided

If you’re passionate about wool, sustainability and supporting British farming, this is a rare opportunity to build a meaningful career in a heritage industry with a modern, purpose‑driven mission.

 Benefits

• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Life insurance
• On‑site parking
• Private dental insurance
• Private medical insurance
• Sick pay

If you are interested in this role, please email a covering letter and CV to recruitment@hdawson.com