Jacob Rix
A carpenter specialising in timber framing and bespoke outdoor playground equipment, I aim to further expand my knowledge in timber frame construction, timber processing and project management with a focus on sustainablity and low-carbon building techniques.
Work History
I began my journey at Touchwood as a junior carpenter and, within six months, was promoted to Workshop Supervisor. During this time, I enhanced my skills with a range of workshop tools, constructing timber structures and playground equipment using materials like oak, Douglas fir, larch, and robinia. I assisted in developing prototypes for new products and managed logistical operations, overseeing tasks such as organising and loading lorries for site deployment, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring projects were completed to the highest standards. All while adhering to strict compliance with health and safety regulations in line with HSE standards.
Following this, I spent a year as Site Lead, managing teams of up to seven people across a variety of projects, from high-profile ventures such as the Eden Project to smaller local playgrounds. I was responsible for ensuring site safety, and overseeing the precise and timely delivery of projects. My role involved laying out and constructing foundations, reinforcing towers for V-bridges and rope bridges, while also enhancing my managerial and organizational skills.
I am proficient in operating electric chainsaws, troughöhlers, chainsaw mills, and various power tools. Currently, I am working towards additional qualifications in chainsaw operation and petrol-powered machinery, supported by grant applications.
Furthermore, I have extensive experience operating telehandlers, performing tasks such as loading and unloading lorries, maneuvering structures with hooks, chains, and forks, and using buckets for leveling and moving materials as required by each project.
Portfolio
With over five completed projects under my leadership and collaboration on numerous others, I’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of managing all phases of a project—from manufacturing and preparation to site organization and final delivery.
Recent projects I’ve contributed to include the installation of a suspended bridge park in France, where I was hired for my experience in rope bridge installations and suspended playground apparatus (see slideshow). Additionally, I played a key role in the preparation, manufacturing, and installation of an outdoor classroom for a school in Wolverhampton (refer to the first image in the gallery).
My most recent project involved collaborating on the construction of a mono-pitch roof with an adjoining deck for a medical facility in Taunton. This project allowed me to engage with modern carpentry techniques, which I rarely encounter but thoroughly enjoyed applying.
Career Specific:
- CITB SSSTS Site Supervisor
- CITB CSCS Laybourer
- Telehandler
- Emergency First Aid at Work Course - Level 2 Award (QCF)
- Abrasive Wheel training.
Educational:
-11 GCSE’s
-3 A-levels
-BA degree in Sound Engineering
Other:
-Full Clean Driving License
References
Adrian Fawcett
Touchwood Operations Manager
adrian@touchwoodplay.co.uk
Sam Harradine
Co-Founder & Managing Director of Hands On
sam@gethandson.co.uk
Contact Information
Email: jacob-rix@live.com
Phone: 07546401276