Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer
Permanent role
Based in Ampthill
Offering up to £70,000
Do you have experience with HyperMill?
Do you have experience in CNC programming and machining processes of 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis?
Do you want to work with an industry-leading company?
If your answer to these is yes, then this could be the role for you!
As the Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer, you will be working alongside a market-leading Defence and Aerospace company who are constantly growing and developing. They are always looking to bring on new talents such as yourself and further develop your skills to enable you to grow within the company and industry.
You will be involved in:
- Lead CNC machining strategy development across the Operations Engineering department
- Develop and improve functional operating processes and incorporate them into the governing processes
- Process Ownership: Own, lead, and develop the technology roadmap for machining on behalf of the Operations Engineering department
- Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centres
- Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for standard and mill-turn lathes
- Design and implement advanced fixturing and work-holding solutions to improve repeatability, precision, and throughput
- Select and optimise cutting tools, tooling strategies, and machining parameters for a wide range of materials and geometries
- Establish best practices for machining operations, setup reduction, tooling management, and process standardisation
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities through Design for Manufacture (DFM)
- Troubleshoot complex machining and tooling issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions
- Work closely with Quality teams to ensure compliance with engineering tolerances, inspection requirements, and customer standards
- Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation including setup sheets, tooling lists, process flows, and work instructions
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
- Support capital equipment selection, commissioning, and capability validation for new CNC machinery and automation technologies
- Ensure all machining activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards
Your skillset & experience:
- Experience within a CNC manufacturing or precision machining environment
- Demonstrated mastery of 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC programming and machining processes
- Expert-level proficiency in HyperMill
- Strong understanding of CNC machining strategies for complex geometries and tight-tolerance components
- Deep knowledge of metallurgy, material machinability, cutting tool technology, feeds and speeds optimisation, and chip control
- Extensive experience with advanced work holding, fixture design, and modular fixturing systems
- Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and engineering drawings
- Experience optimising machining processes for cycle time, tool life, surface finish, and dimensional capability
- Experience supporting low-volume/high-complexity manufacturing and/or high-precision production environments
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies
- Ability to troubleshoot complex manufacturing and machining issues in a fast-paced production environment
- Experience working with ERP/MRP and manufacturing documentation systems
- Experience leading a team of other engineers and technicians
- Degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship, or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, or related discipline
- Experience within aerospace, defence, medical device, motorsport, semiconductor, energy, or other high-precision industries
- Knowledge of automation, robotic tending, palletisation, or lights-out machining strategies
- Familiarity with cutting tool management systems and digital manufacturing initiatives
- Exposure to additive manufacturing and hybrid manufacturing technologies
- Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt or Lean certification
- Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis
- Understanding of machining exotic alloys including titanium, Inconel, stainless steels, and hardened materials
Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer
Permanent role
Based in Ampthill
Offering up to £70,000
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Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer in Ampthill employer: Advanced Resource Managers Ltd
At Advanced Resource Managers Ltd, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our Suffolk location provides a unique opportunity to engage in significant infrastructure projects while benefiting from professional growth through continuous training and development. We value our employees by providing competitive benefits and a supportive environment that encourages leadership and impactful contributions to major initiatives.
Contact Details:
Advanced Resource Managers Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer in Ampthill
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨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 Advanced Resource Managers Ltd, 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!
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 Advanced Resource Managers Ltd 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 Advanced Resource Managers Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Advanced Resource Managers Ltd, 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 Advanced Resource Managers Ltd 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.
