Job Title: Ready to Wear Operative
We have an exciting opportunity in our Ready to Wear team. As a Ready-to-Wear Operative at Johnstons of Elgin, you will play a key role in the production of luxury garments, ensuring exceptional standards of craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail. Working with the finest cashmere and natural fibres, you will be responsible for accurately cutting fabrics and constructing garments to specification while maintaining the heritage and reputation of the brand.
This is a permanent position either on:
Dayshift shift (38 hours per week), working Monday to Thursday 0700-1600 and Friday 0700 – 1100 or,
Late shift (34 hours per week), working Monday to Thursday 1600 - 0100.
Rate of pay for this role is £13.45 - £15.00 per hour, depending on skills, qualifications and experience. Candidates with relevant skills and experience may be appointed at a higher rate within the advertised range. Fully qualified Machinists/Cutters will be paid £15.00 per hour.
About the Role
Your key duties will include
Machinist Duties
Operate industrial sewing machinery to construct luxury ready-to-wear garments.
Assemble garment components to detailed specifications and production standards.
Maintain consistent stitch quality, seam accuracy, and garment finish.
Follow patterns, technical specifications, and work instructions.
Carry out in-process quality checks to ensure garments meet company standards.
Identify and report any fabric, component, or construction issues.
Work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve daily production targets.
Ensure all garments are produced with exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Cutter Duties
Lay up fabrics and prepare materials for production.
Accurately mark, measure, and cut garment components according to patterns and specifications.
Minimise fabric waste while maintaining quality requirements.
Check fabric for faults and report any issues before production.
Organise and label cut components for efficient production flow.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organised work area.
About you
This is what we’re looking for in our ideal candidate:
Essential
Experience operating industrial sewing machines and/or cutting equipment within a garment manufacturing environment.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Ability to read and follow patterns, specifications, and technical instructions.
Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Reliable and self-motivated with a positive attitude.
Desirable
Experience working with luxury fabrics such as cashmere, wool, or knitwear.
Previous experience within a premium or luxury clothing manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of garment construction techniques and quality standards.
Multi-skilled experience across both cutting and machining operations.
Personal Qualities
Pride in producing high-quality products.
Passion for craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Commitment to maintaining the heritage and reputation of Johnstons of Elgin.
Flexible and adaptable approach to production requirements.
Strong work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement.
About Us
Founded in 1797, Johnstons of Elgin is an innovative, luxury clothing brand celebrating 225 years of experience in working with the world’s finest fibres. Across three centuries, our family-owned company has carefully sourced cashmere and fine woollen fibres from around the world, applying the latest technology and highest quality craft expertise in our very own vertical Scottish mills. Employing over 1,000 staff, our valued employees and communities are at the heart of everything we do, producing unique, high-quality designs that are made to last. Our brand is focused on sustainability, working with natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibres and we are committed to maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.
Johnstons of Elgin is proud to be an equal opportunity employer wholeheartedly…