At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the CAD/CAM function and programme complex CNC components.
- Company: Established advanced manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, dental plan, and onsite parking.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and influence.
- Why this job: Become a technical authority and shape the future of machining technology.
- Qualifications: Extensive CNC machining and advanced CAD/CAM programming experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
PowerMill - SolidWorks - 5 Axis CNC - Manufacturing Engineering - CNC Programming
5S Recruitment is delighted to be supporting an established and highly respected advanced manufacturing business in the appointment of a Lead CAD/CAM Engineer. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Senior CAD/CAM Engineer, Lead CNC Programmer or Manufacturing Engineer looking to take technical ownership of a modern machining department whilst remaining hands-on with programming and manufacturing engineering. Unlike many "lead" positions, this isn't a move away from engineering. You'll continue programming complex components while becoming the recognised technical authority for CAD/CAM across the business. Working closely with senior management, you'll play a key role in shaping machining strategy, developing internal capability and influencing future investment in machinery and software.
The Opportunity
This is a genuine technical leadership role where you'll take ownership of the entire CAD/CAM function. You'll programme complex components, optimise machining strategies, improve manufacturing efficiency and mentor an existing CNC Setter who is being developed into a CAM Programmer. You'll also play a significant role in future investment projects, including new CNC machinery, CAM software and manufacturing technology. If you're someone who enjoys solving machining challenges, improving cycle times and driving manufacturing excellence, this is an outstanding opportunity to make a genuine impact.
The Manufacturing Environment
You'll be working within a modern CNC machining facility manufacturing high-quality composite and plastic components for a wide range of industries. Current equipment includes:
- Multiple 5 Axis CNC Machining Centres
- HAAS Vertical Machining Centres
- Offline CAD/CAM Programming
- Autodesk PowerMill
- Latest SolidWorks software
- CNC simulation prior to machining
Future investment is already planned, including additional CNC machinery and new CAM software, with the successful candidate playing an active role in these decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Take ownership of the company's CAD/CAM function.
- Produce complex CNC programmes using Autodesk PowerMill or equivalent.
- Programme 3 Axis and 5 Axis CNC machining centres.
- Develop efficient machining strategies to reduce cycle times.
- Improve tooling, fixtures and workholding methods.
- Optimise feeds, speeds and cutting strategies.
- Apply Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI).
- Work closely with Production, Quality and Engineering teams.
- Resolve machining issues and support production on the shop floor.
- Mentor and develop an existing CNC Setter into a CAM Programmer.
- Drive continuous improvement throughout the machining department.
- Contribute towards future investment in machinery and manufacturing technology.
We're Looking For
- Lead CAD/CAM Engineers
- Senior CAD/CAM Engineers
- Lead CNC Programmers
- Senior CNC Programmers
- Manufacturing Engineers
- CNC Manufacturing Engineers
- CAM Engineers
- CNC Applications Engineers
Experience from precision engineering, aerospace, automotive, plastics, composites or advanced manufacturing environments would all be considered.
Essential Experience
- Extensive CNC machining experience.
- Advanced CAD/CAM programming.
- Autodesk PowerMill or similar CAM software.
- SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
- 3 Axis CNC machining.
- 5 Axis CNC machining.
- Offline programming.
- Manufacturing engineering.
- Design for Manufacture (DFM).
- Fixture and tooling development.
- Continuous improvement.
- Excellent understanding of machining principles, cutting tools, feeds and speeds.
- Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
Candidates with strong metallic machining backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply, bringing proven machining knowledge into an advanced composites and plastics manufacturing environment.
What You'll Achieve
Within your first year you'll:
- Become the technical lead for CAD/CAM.
- Improve machining efficiency and reduce cycle times.
- Increase technical capability across the machining team.
- Mentor and develop internal programming capability.
- Influence future manufacturing investment.
- Help shape the long-term machining strategy of the business.
Why Apply?
This is far more than a programming role. It's an opportunity to become the technical authority within a growing manufacturing business that genuinely values engineering expertise. You'll have the autonomy to influence the future direction of the machining department while remaining hands-on with the technology and engineering challenges that make the role rewarding. If you're looking for a position where your technical knowledge will genuinely shape the future of a business, we'd love to hear from you.
5S Recruitment
With over 16 years' specialist recruitment experience, 5S Recruitment partners with engineering and manufacturing businesses across the UK, connecting exceptional technical talent with outstanding career opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Design Engineer in High Wycombe
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like 5S Recruitment Limited, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Design Engineer in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to 5S Recruitment Limited specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at 5S Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with 5S Recruitment Limited, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like 5S Recruitment Limited value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
