At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate precision machinery to assemble and inspect wheelsets for trains and trams.
- Company: Join CAF, a global leader in rail innovation with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, and excellent health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a positive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to enhance safety and reliability in public transport.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in mechanical/electrical discipline and experience with CNC machinery.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
ABOUT CAF
Innovation is in our DNA - we thrive on pushing boundaries and adapting to new challenges with a flexible approach. Proud to be a global leader, our fast-paced growth provides exciting opportunities for our team and the community. Committed to maintaining trains and trams, our mission is to enhance vehicle safety and reliability. Our ultimate goal is to deliver a comfortable, dependable, and sustainable commuting experience for all passengers. Based out of multiple locations across the UK, our 24/7 operation means we’re always on hand to deliver reliable technical support. Utilising the latest digital technology, we strive to enhance dependability, helping people to get to where they need to be! We wouldn’t be where we are without our people. Working together as a team, we strive to achieve great things while supporting each other to thrive along the way. We’re going places, so apply today and become part of our exciting journey.
What can you expect from CAF?
- Positive Work Environment: You will work in a positive environment, based on mutual respect and team spirit.
- Professional Development: Our projects are often measured in years, sometimes decades, giving you and the organisation a future.
- Learning and Autonomy: We will encourage you to work autonomously, being able to propose and decide 'what' and 'how'.
- Security and Reliability: CAF has been working for over 100 years on a path that stretches into the future, giving you the security you need.
- Cutting-edge technology: You will work with the latest technologies, facing the challenge of devising innovative approaches and solutions every day.
What will be your role in the company?
The Lathe & Press Operator is responsible for machining axles, preparing wheel pans, and assembling wheelsets using precision equipment such as horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses, in accordance with CAF Rail UK overhaul procedures and quality standards. This role ensures all machined and assembled wheelsets meet dimensional tolerances, alignment, and safety specifications, maintaining full compliance with CAF’s HSQE requirements. The Lathe & Press Operator contributes directly to the reliability and performance of overhauled bogies and wheelsets, supporting CAF’s commitment to safety, accuracy, and quality in every stage of the production process.
Your daily duties will include:
- Operate horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses to machine axles, assemble wheelsets, and verify dimensional tolerances in line with CAF overhaul procedures.
- Set up machines, select tools, and perform machining operations to specified dimensions and surface finishes.
- Conduct pre- and post- machining inspections using micrometres, dial gauges, and other precision measurement tools.
- Assemble wheelsets using the wheel press, ensuring correct interference fits, alignment, and pressing force in accordance with engineering data.
- Support brake disc fitting, bearing installation, and related sub-assembly activities as part of wheelset build-up.
- Record all measurements, press readings, and inspection results accurately within CAF’s quality control system.
- Adhere strictly to HSQE standards, including lock-out/tag-out procedures, guarding, and equipment safety checks.
- Maintain lathe and press equipment, perform basic fault checks, and report maintenance issues promptly.
- Ensure all tooling, jigs, and gauges are calibrated, clean, and stored correctly.
- Handle components safely using overhead cranes, lifting frames, and wheelset trolleys in accordance with lifting plans.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, process efficiency, and workplace 5S standards.
- Support training and knowledge sharing across the wheelset and machining team.
- Assist as required within other areas of the facility to maintain production requirements.
What salary will you be paid for this position?
As a Real Living Wage Employer, we are proud to pay competitively at CAF. For this role you will be offered a salary of £45,000 per annum.
What will make you successful in this position?
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- NVQ Level 3 or above in a relevant mechanical/electrical discipline.
- Proven experience operating precision CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses in a rail, aerospace, or heavy engineering environment.
- Skilled in machining axles and similar rotating components to tight dimensional tolerances and surface finish specifications.
- Competent in interpreting technical drawings, machining programs, and measurement data sheets.
- Experience setting up, tooling, and maintaining CNC lathes for complex multi-step operations.
- Proficient in using precision measuring equipment such as micrometres, dial test indicators, bore gauges, and surface finish testers.
- Familiar with wheelset assembly procedures, including pressing operations, alignment, and fit verification.
- Understanding of machine safety systems, risk assessments, and lock-out/tag-out practices.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain consistent quality, safety, and efficiency targets in a production environment.
ABOUT WHAT WE OFFER
A Real Living Wage employer and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, RSSB Mental Health Charter and Women in Rail EDI Charter, we’ve a lot to shout about at CAF. Creating a culture of inclusivity and belonging is really important to us and we’re proud to offer our people a range of benefits to support wellbeing including 25 days annual leave, an excellent workplace pension scheme (with up to 10% contribution from us), not forgetting to mention our generous health care cash plan and Bike2Work scheme just to name a few!
Looking for career development? Our Professional Sponsorship scheme will help you to achieve your goals while our Flexible Working policy and Family Friendly culture mean everyone is supported to thrive at CAF. As a socially responsible business, we offer paid volunteering days and promote a variety of social value initiatives, including tree-planting, company-wide donation drives, and providing support to the homeless community and refugees. We’re creating waves of positive change through delivering meaningful social value impact on and off the tracks!
Lathe & Press Operator – Manchester employer: CAF Group
CAF Rail UK is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of Manchester, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth while contributing to impactful projects in the rail industry. With a commitment to employee well-being and a supportive environment, CAF Rail UK stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lathe & Press Operator – Manchester
✨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!
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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!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
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We think you need these skills to ace Lathe & Press Operator – Manchester
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 CAF Group 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 CAF Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with CAF Group, 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 CAF Group 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.
