Careers

From playground design and engineering to sales and installation, our comprehensive range of playground services would not be possible without the experienced and diverse team at the heart of Wicksteed.

In order to provide the best products for our customers, we need the best people behind us and are therefore always looking for new talent.

We provide full in-house training for all of our roles, heavily supported by our existing team, so if you’re a passionate, creative, and driven individual who is interested in working for the UK’s leading playground equipment manufacturer, browse our current vacancies below and apply today.
From playground design and engineering to sales and installation, our comprehensive range of playground services would not be possible without the experienced and diverse team at the heart of Wicksteed.

In order to provide the best products for our customers, we need the best people behind us and are therefore always looking for new talent.

We provide full in-house training for all of our roles, heavily supported by our existing team, so if you’re a passionate, creative, and driven individual who is interested in working for the UK’s leading playground equipment manufacturer, browse our current vacancies below and apply today. Explore

Current Vacancies

Group Digital Marketing Manager

Full Time / Permanent

Location: Kettering Contract Type: Permanent Hours: Full time, Monday- Friday - 8.30am – 5pm We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic, motivated, and creative Group Digital Marketing Manager to lead the digital strategy for the Wicksteed Group of Companies – the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor play and leisure equipment. With a rich heritage dating back to 1918, our group – including Wicksteed Leisure, Playtime by Fawns, and Russell Play, is synonymous with quality, innovation, and inspiring play experiences. From design and manufacturing to installation and maintenance, we bring playgrounds and public spaces to life across the UK. As our Group Digital Marketing Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering impactful digital campaigns that drive engagement, increase brand visibility, and generate leads across our three established brands. OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE • Proven experience in PPC and SEO with a track record of driving significant growth in high-growth consumer brands. • Strong expertise in A/B testing and conversion optimisation. • Proficiency in using data analytics tools such as Google Analytics, SEMrush, or similar to track and improve performance. • Ability to manage large marketing budgets and deliver against KPIs. • High-energy individual with the ability to work in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment. • Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with a focus on collaboration and innovation. • Proven success scaling digital marketing efforts for high-growth consumer brands with measurable results. YOUR MAIN DUTIES WILL INCLUDE • Strategic Leadership: Own and lead the digital marketing strategy, including PPC, SEO, email marketing, and other channels to drive growth and revenue across all companies in the group. • PPC Campaign Management: Drive the strategy, execution, and continuous optimisation of high-impact PPC campaigns across Google, social media, and other paid platforms to maximise ROI, scale performance, and achieve business growth objectives. • SEO: Oversee and enhance SEO efforts, ensuring that content, technical elements, and offsite strategies align for optimal search rankings. • A/B Testing & Conversion Optimisation: Spearhead comprehensive A/B testing initiatives across landing pages, ad creatives, and website experiences to significantly improve conversion rates, enhance user engagement, and drive measurable business outcomes. • Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage advanced analytics and performance metrics to drive strategic marketing decisions, optimise budget allocation, and continuously improve ROI through actionable insights and data-informed optimisations. • Cross-Channel Marketing: Develop cohesive, integrated campaigns across digital channels, including paid, owned, and earned media. Understand current social media platforms. • Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing digital marketing team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. • Strategic Budgeting: Expertise in identifying optimal allocation of marketing funds, developing financial models and projections, and presenting well-supported recommendations to key stakeholders.  • Any other duties as directed by a manager or director. WHAT WE OFFER Attractive salary Pension scheme 25 days holiday along with bank holidays Opportunity for hybrid working after training and probationary period is complete Early finish on Friday’s (4pm) Access to offers and services available through HR software and our lead trade body. Potential to receive monthly rewards Please submit a short letter of application along with your CV to [email protected] Wicksteed is an equal opportunities employer - applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.
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Playground Installer

Full Time / Permanent

Location: Covering the Midlands and North of England (Candidates ideally based in or near  Kettering) Contract Type: Permanent Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 4:30pm, including a 30-minute unpaid break (45  hours per week). Wicksteed Leisure is one of the UK’s leading providers of playground and leisure equipment, with a  heritage dating back to 1918. From design and manufacturing through to installation and  maintenance, our success is built on expertise and the diverse team at the heart of Wicksteed. As part of the Wicksteed Leisure Group, Playtime by Fawns brings over 30 years of experience  specialising in the design, manufacture and installation of high-quality timber play equipment for the  education sector. Together, we combine innovation, craftsmanship and sector expertise to deliver  outstanding play environments across the UK. OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE SHOULD • Have a strong understanding of playground installation and safety regulations • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and job sheets • Proficiency with hand tools and power tools, ensuring safe and effective use • Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions precisely • Problem-solving skills to address on-site challenges • Excellent communication skills to work with colleagues and clients • Eligible for an enhanced DBS check (to work within schools and around children) • Full, clean UK driving licence YOUR MAIN DUTIES WILL INCLUDE • Install play equipment, in line with design instructions • Work closely with team members and management to ensure projects are completed on time • Maintain accurate progress updates and uphold our high-quality service standards WHAT WE OFFER Salary negotiable on experience 25 days holiday along with bank holidays Pension scheme Access to offers and services available through HR software. Long Service awards Training We provide full training for all of our roles, heavily supported by our existing team so if you are  interested in joining our dynamic and friendly, Installations Department please submit your application along with your CV to [email protected] Wicksteed is an equal opportunities employer - applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of  sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief,  or sexual orientation.  
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CAD Designer

Full Time / Permanent

Location: Kettering,  Contract type: Permanent  Reporting to: Technical Design Manager Hours: Full time, Monday- Friday - 8.30am – 5pm Wicksteed Group of Companies are the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of play and Leisure equipment & have been designing; manufacturing; installing; landscaping and maintaining playgrounds since 1918. Wicksteed Leisure is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented CAD Designer to join our Design & Engineering team. The successful candidate will be responsible for producing high-quality 3D models, manufacturing drawings, and technical documentation for playground and leisure equipment projects. This role requires experience using Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, and the ability to create accurate, production-ready detailed drawings to support manufacturing, installation, and product development activities. Experience using Sage 200 would also be highly beneficial. We would also welcome applications from graduate-level candidates who are eager to learn, develop their technical skills, and build a career within design and engineering. OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE • HNC/HND or Degree in Engineering, Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline preferred  • Relevant CAD certifications advantageous  • Proven experience in a CAD Design role within manufacturing, engineering, or product design preferred  • Strong proficiency in Autodesk Inventor  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD  • Experience using Sage 200 or similar ERP/MRP systems would be advantageous  • Ability to produce detailed engineering and fabrication drawings  • Good understanding of manufacturing processes and materials  • Experience creating assembly drawings and exploded views  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously  • Good communication and teamwork skills  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications  • Graduate candidates with relevant qualifications and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply  DESIRABLE SKILLS • Experience within the playground, leisure, steel fabrication, or engineering sector • Knowledge of sheet metal, welded fabrications, and machined components  • Familiarity with PDM systems and drawing control procedures  • Understanding of relevant British and European standards  YOUR MAIN DUTIES WILL INCLUDE • Create and maintain 3D models and assemblies using Autodesk Inventor  • Produce accurate manufacturing and fabrication drawings with detailed dimensions, tolerances, and material specifications using AutoCAD and Inventor  • Generate BOMs (Bills of Materials) and technical documentation  • Input and manage project and materials data within Sage 200 where required  • Work closely with engineering, production, and project teams to develop design solutions  • Revise and update existing drawings and product data as required  • Ensure drawings comply with company standards and industry regulations  • Support prototype development and product improvement initiatives  • Assist with design reviews and technical problem-solving  • Manage drawing revisions and maintain document control procedures  • Liaise with suppliers and manufacturing teams regarding technical queries  WHY WICKSTEED LEISURE • Attractive salary • Pension scheme • 25 days holiday along with bank holidays • Early finish on Friday’s (4pm) • Access to offers and services available through HR software • Potential to receive company incentives • Work closely with multiple departments and influence key decisions • Training and development opportunities  • Supportive and collaborative working environment • Opportunity to contribute to innovative leisure and playground projects  At Wicksteed Leisure Ltd, our continued success is built on innovation, quality, and the expertise of our people. As part of our Design & Engineering team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to exciting and varied projects that help create inspiring play and leisure environments. Whether you are an experienced CAD Designer or a graduate looking to develop your skills and career within a  supportive engineering environment, we would love to hear from you. Please submit a short letter of application along with your CV to [email protected] Wicksteed is an equal opportunities employer - applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.
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Contracts Manager - South East England

Full Time / Permanent

Contracts Manager Location: South East England (home-based with regular site presence across the region) Reports To: Managing Director Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time Anticipated Start Date: 1st September 2026 About Wicksteed Leisure Wicksteed Leisure has been designing and manufacturing children's playgrounds, outdoor gyms and multi-use games areas since 1918. Established in 1876, we are one of the most experienced and trusted names in the UK play industry. With over 100 years of delivering play solutions, we combine heritage craftsmanship with modern design to create safe, inspiring outdoor environments for communities across the country. This position has arisen due to the retirement of a long-standing team member — It is a rare opportunity to join a market-leading company and make a significant role your own, managing a portfolio of projects across South East England as part of a UK-wide contracts team. The Role As Contracts Manager you will take full ownership of project delivery — from sales handover through to site completion. You will lead subcontractor relationships, manage customer expectations, and ensure every installation is completed safely, on time, and within budget. You will be the primary point of contact for customers throughout the construction phase, embodying Wicksteed's commitment to quality and service. Key Responsibilities Project & Programme Management • Own the end-to-end delivery of playground and outdoor gym contracts from order receipt to final sign-off.• Develop and maintain detailed project programmes, tracking progress and proactively managing risks to schedule and budget. • Conduct and assist with site surveys, setting out sites in line with detailed drawings and client requirements. • Ensure all installations comply with current BS EN standards and Wicksteed specifications. Subcontractor Management • Identify, vet and onboard new subcontractors to support regional growth. • Appoint, brief and supervise subcontractors carrying out installations and groundworks. • Issue and manage all pre-commencement documentation including Method Statements and Risk Assessments (RAMS). • Monitor subcontractor performance and quality, taking corrective action where required. Client & Stakeholder Management • Serve as the main client contact throughout the construction phase, providing regular updates via telephone, email, virtual and in-person meetings. • Manage and align client expectations at every stage, resolving issues promptly to maintain satisfaction. • Collaborate closely with Area Sales Managers to ensure seamless handover and consistent client experience. Health, Safety & Compliance • Maintain a thorough understanding of relevant health and safety legislation and best practice. • Ensure full compliance with CDM Regulations 2015, including coordination of pre-construction information and maintenance of the health and safety file. • Prepare, review and issue RAMS, ensuring all site activities are conducted safely and legally. • Uphold Wicksteed's zero-harm culture across all sites and subcontractor activities. What We're Looking For Essential • Proven experience in contracts or project management within construction, installation or a related outdoor environment. • Strong working knowledge of construction practices including groundworks, levels, drainage and landscaping. • Confident communicator with the ability to build trusted relationships with clients, subcontractors and internal teams. • Skilled negotiator able to secure best value from contractors and suppliers without compromising quality or safety. • Customer-centric mindset with a consistent focus on satisfaction and quality outcomes. • Competent user of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). • Full UK driving licence. • Self-motivated and able to work on own initiative, whilst contributing effectively as part of a wider UK contracts team. • Strong work ethic with a proactive, can-do approach to problem solving and delivery. • Flexible and willing to travel across the South East, with overnight stays as required. Desirable • Previous experience in the playground, outdoor leisure or landscape construction sector. • SMSTS qualification (support available to obtain if not already held). • NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management or equivalent (support available to obtain). • Enhanced DBS certificate (can be arranged on appointment). What We Offer • Competitive salary commensurate with experience. • KPI-based performance bonus. • Company car, mobile phone and laptop. • Company pension scheme. • Long service recognition awards. • Investment in your professional development — qualifications supported from day one. • The chance to join a genuinely iconic British brand with 150 years of heritage and a passionate, close-knit team. If you share our passion for creating outstanding play spaces and are ready to bring your project management expertise to a company that has been inspiring outdoor play for generations, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV, a covering letter, and your salary expectations to:[email protected] Wicksteed Leisure Limited is an equal opportunities employer. applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.  
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