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- Tasks: Program and operate CNC sliding head lathes to create precision components.
- Company: Join a leading precision engineering firm in Cambridgeshire with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a clean, modern workspace, Monday to Friday hours, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team dedicated to quality and continuous improvement in engineering.
- Qualifications: Experience with sliding head lathes and a strong grasp of engineering drawings required.
- Other info: This is a hands-on role with both production and R&D projects.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
CNC Lathe Programmer / Operator
Sector: Precision Engineering / Manufacturing
Location: Cambridgeshire
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Hours: Monday to Friday, Days
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
ISQ Recruitment is supporting a precision engineering business in Cambridgeshire looking to expand their machine shop team with a skilled CNC Sliding Head Lathe Programmer / Operator. This is a hands-on, workshop-based role producing small-batch, high-accuracy components across both production and R&D needs.
You\’ll be working in a clean, well-organised environment with modern equipment and a team that values attention to detail, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
The Role:
- Program, set and operate Fanuc-controlled sliding head lathes
- Produce small-run, tight-tolerance parts from engineering drawings
- Carry out inspections and basic finishing
- Support both production and development work
- Maintain clean working practices and contribute to improvements
What We\’re Looking For:
- Experience programming and operating sliding head lathes
- Comfortable working to fine tolerances
- Strong understanding of engineering drawings
- CAD/CAM or multi-axis experience is a bonus
Why Apply?
- Full-time, permanent position in a well-structured machine shop
- Clean, modern environment with varied projects
- Opportunity to work on both production and R&D components
- Monday to Friday schedule — no shifts or weekends
- Progression opportunities into senior programmer or team lead roles
How to Apply
Send your CV to or call 01603 369 500
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CNC Lathe Programmer / Operator employer: ISQ Recruitment ltd
Contact Detail:
ISQ Recruitment ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CNC Lathe Programmer / Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific CNC sliding head lathe models used by the company. Researching Fanuc-controlled machines and their programming nuances can give you an edge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience with engineering drawings in detail. Be ready to explain how you've interpreted and worked from these in past roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills by thinking of examples where you've improved processes or quality in previous jobs. This aligns well with the company's focus on continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace CNC Lathe Programmer / Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a CNC Lathe Programmer / Operator. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills required, such as programming and operating sliding head lathes, and ensure you can demonstrate these in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in precision engineering and CNC machining. Emphasise your familiarity with Fanuc-controlled machines and any experience with CAD/CAM or multi-axis operations, as these are valuable assets for this role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for precision engineering and your attention to detail. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to produce high-accuracy components and your commitment to continuous improvement.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial in the engineering sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at ISQ Recruitment ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with CNC sliding head lathes in detail. Highlight specific projects where you programmed and operated these machines, and be ready to explain the processes you used to achieve tight tolerances.
✨Understand Engineering Drawings
Familiarise yourself with interpreting engineering drawings before the interview. You may be asked to demonstrate your understanding of how to translate these drawings into precise components, so practice explaining this process clearly.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
Since the role requires producing high-accuracy components, be sure to convey your commitment to quality and precision. Share examples of how you've maintained clean working practices and contributed to continuous improvement in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Think of scenarios where you had to troubleshoot issues with machinery or adapt to changes in production requirements, and be ready to discuss these experiences.
