Introduction
The role of a Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) is in high demand in the UK job market in 2026. This is due to the increasing need for skilled professionals who can design and develop complex systems and products using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Ernest Gordon Recruitment Limited is a leading recruitment agency that specializes in providing top talent to various industries, including engineering and manufacturing. They are currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) to join their team in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting projects, gaining valuable experience and skills in the design and development of complex systems and products. They will also have the chance to work with a talented team of professionals who are passionate about delivering high-quality results. If you are a recent graduate with a degree in a relevant field, such as engineering or product design, and have experience using SolidWorks or AlphaCAM, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Job Overview
| Title | Company | Location | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) | Ernest Gordon Recruitment Limited | Leyburn, North Yorkshire | £28,000 – £35,000/yr |
| Job Type | Posted Date | Remote/On-site | Visa Sponsorship Available |
| Full-time | 11 March 2026 | On-site | Unknown |
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the design team in the development of complex systems and products
- Use SolidWorks or AlphaCAM to design and develop 2D and 3D models
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design intent is met
- Participate in design reviews and provide feedback to improve design quality
- Develop and maintain design documentation and records
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies
- Provide support to the operations team in the scheduling and planning of production
- Assist in the development of new products and processes
Requirements & Qualifications
| Essential | Desirable |
|---|---|
| Degree in a relevant field, such as engineering or product design | Experience with CAD software, such as SolidWorks or AlphaCAM |
| Strong understanding of design principles and methodologies | Knowledge of manufacturing processes and technologies |
| Excellent communication and teamwork skills | Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines |
Salary Intelligence
The salary for this role is £28,000 – £35,000/yr, which is competitive for a graduate position in the UK. According to national averages, the salary for a Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) in London is around £30,000 – £40,000/yr, while in Manchester it is around £25,000 – £35,000/yr. In Birmingham, the salary is around £24,000 – £34,000/yr, and in Leeds it is around £26,000 – £36,000/yr.
| Location | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| London | £30,000 – £40,000/yr |
| Manchester | £25,000 – £35,000/yr |
| Birmingham | £24,000 – £34,000/yr |
| Leeds | £26,000 – £36,000/yr |
The salary ladder for a Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) in the UK is as follows:
- Junior: £20,000 – £25,000/yr
- Mid-level: £25,000 – £35,000/yr
- Senior: £35,000 – £50,000/yr
- Lead: £50,000 – £70,000/yr
Please note that these salary ranges are estimates and may vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience. Additionally, remote work may affect salary, with some companies offering lower salaries for remote workers.
The estimated after-tax monthly take-home for this salary is around £1,800 – £2,500 per month, depending on individual circumstances. Please note that this is an approximate calculation and should be used as a rough guide only.
Visa & Work Permit Information
This role is likely eligible for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, as the salary is above the minimum threshold of £26,200/yr. However, please note that visa sponsorship is subject to company policies and individual circumstances.
Ernest Gordon Recruitment Limited is a medium-sized company, and as such, they may be likely to sponsor a UK visa for the right candidate. The typical SOC code category for this role is 2121 – Civil Engineers, however please note that this may vary depending on the specific job requirements.
The minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa is £26,200/yr or £10.75/hr. Please note that this threshold may be higher for certain roles or industries.
After 5 years of working in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which would allow you to live and work in the UK without restrictions.
About the Company
Ernest Gordon Recruitment Limited is a leading recruitment agency that specializes in providing top talent to various industries, including engineering and manufacturing. They have a strong reputation for delivering high-quality results and have a team of experienced recruiters who are passionate about finding the best candidates for their clients.
The company culture is focused on teamwork, innovation, and customer satisfaction. They value their employees and offer a range of benefits, including training and development opportunities, flexible working hours, and a competitive salary and benefits package.
According to Glassdoor, the company has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, with employees praising the company culture, management, and opportunities for growth and development.
Location & Lifestyle
Leyburn is a small town in North Yorkshire, located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The town has a population of around 2,000 people and offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and pubs.
The cost of living in Leyburn is relatively low compared to other parts of the UK. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around £500-£700 per month, while a three-bedroom house can cost around £800-£1,200 per month.
There are several commute options available, including buses and trains. The nearest city is Leeds, which is around an hour away by car or train.
Some nearby residential areas that may be suitable for this salary include:
- Leyburn town centre
- Richmond
- Northallerton
- Bedale
Skills & Learning Path
To be successful in this role, you will need to have a range of skills, including:
- CAD design skills, including SolidWorks or AlphaCAM
- Coursera – CAD Design Specialization
- YouTube – CAD Design Tutorials
- Gov.uk – CAD Design Guidance
- Strong understanding of design principles and methodologies
- Coursera – Design Principles Course
- YouTube – Design Methodologies Tutorials
- Gov.uk – Design Guidance
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Coursera – Communication Skills Course
- YouTube – Teamwork Tutorials
- Gov.uk – Communication Guidance
Some relevant certifications for this role include:
- CAD Design Certification
- Design Principles Certification
- Communication Skills Certification
How to Apply
- Review the job description and requirements to ensure you are a good fit for the role
- Update your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience
- Practice your interview skills, including answering common interview questions
- Research the company and the industry to show your knowledge and enthusiasm
- Submit your application, including your CV and cover letter, through the company website or a recruitment agency
- Follow up with the company or recruitment agency to confirm receipt of your application and to express your interest in the role
Some role-specific interview questions and model answers include:
- What experience do you have with CAD design software?
- I have experience using SolidWorks and AlphaCAM to design and develop complex systems and products.
- How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies?
- I regularly read industry publications and attend conferences and seminars to stay current with the latest developments.
- Can you give an example of a time when you had to work as part of a team to complete a project?
- In my previous role, I worked as part of a team to design and develop a new product. We worked together to ensure that the design met the requirements and was completed on time.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- My strengths include my attention to detail and my ability to work well under pressure. My weakness is that I can be perfectionistic, which can sometimes lead to overthinking and spending too much time on a task.
- Why do you want to work for this company?
- I am impressed by the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, and I am excited about the opportunity to work with a talented team of professionals.
- What are your salary expectations?
- Based on my research, I expect a salary in the range of £28,000 – £35,000 per year, depending on the company’s budget and industry standards.
Some tips for salary negotiation in the UK include:
- Research the market rate for the role and industry
- Be confident and assertive in your negotiation
- Be flexible and open to compromise
UK Job Market Insights
The demand for Graduate Draughtsperson (AlphaCAM) roles is growing in the UK, with many companies looking for skilled professionals to fill these positions. The best time to apply for these roles is typically in the spring and summer months, when many companies are looking to hire new graduates.
According to recent data, around 20% of similar roles are offering remote work options, which can provide more flexibility and work-life balance for employees.
Some similar roles to also apply for include:
- Graduate Design Engineer
- Junior CAD Designer
- Product Design Engineer
FAQ
Q: Is this job open for freshers?
A: Yes, this job is open to recent graduates with a degree in a relevant field.
Q: Does the company sponsor a UK visa?
A: The company may sponsor a UK visa for the right candidate, but this is subject to individual circumstances and company policies.
Q: What is the typical notice period for this role?
A: The typical notice period for this role is around 1-3 months, depending on the company’s policies and individual circumstances.
Q: Is remote work available for this role?
A: No, this role is on-site only, but the company may offer flexible working hours or remote work options in the future.
Q: What is the monthly take-home after tax for this salary?
A: The estimated monthly take-home after tax for this salary is around £1,800 – £2,500 per month, depending on individual circumstances.
Q: What skills do I need to learn for this role?
A: You will need to have strong CAD design skills, including SolidWorks or AlphaCAM, as well as excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Q: How competitive is this role?
A: This role is moderately competitive, with several candidates applying for the position. However, the company is looking for the right candidate with the right skills and experience.
Q: What are the growth prospects for this role?
A: The growth prospects for this role are good, with opportunities for career advancement and professional development within the company.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information provided in this article is for general guidance only and should not be considered as professional advice. The salary ranges and benefits mentioned are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is the responsibility of the candidate to research the company and the role thoroughly and to ensure that they meet the requirements and qualifications for the position.