CNC Machinist - Programmer / Setter / Operator
Location: Leeds Pay: £18.50 - £20.50 per hour DOE Hours: 40 hours per week Contract: Permanent
Are you an experienced CNC Machinist who can take a component from engineering drawing through programming and setup to the finished part?
We're recruiting for a long-established heavy engineering manufacturer in Leeds that is looking to strengthen its machine shop with experienced CNC Machinists.
This is not a basic CNC Operator position.
We're looking for skilled machinists who can independently programme, set and operate CNC machinery from start to finish, taking genuine ownership of the components they produce.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for the complete machining process, including:
- Reading and interpreting detailed engineering drawings.
- Programming CNC machinery.
- Setting machines independently.
- Selecting and setting appropriate tooling.
- Setting datums and offsets.
- Establishing appropriate speeds and feeds.
- Setting workholding.
- Operating and monitoring CNC machinery.
- Making programme and tooling adjustments where required.
- Producing components accurately to drawing and specification.
- Working to specified dimensions and tolerances.
- Carrying out first-off and in-process inspection.
- Using precision measuring equipment.
- Troubleshooting machining, tooling and programming issues.
- Taking responsibility for component quality from setup through to completion.
What We're Looking For
To be considered, you must have proven experience programming, setting and operating CNC machinery independently.
We're particularly interested in machinists with experience across:
- CNC turning and/or milling.
- Programming CNC machinery.
- Full machine setup.
- Engineering drawing interpretation.
- Tool selection and setting.
- Speeds and feeds.
- Workholding.
- Tool and work offsets.
- Tight-tolerance machining.
- Precision measurement and inspection.
- Troubleshooting machining issues.
Experience within heavy engineering, rail, nuclear, defence, oil & gas, precision engineering, large-component machining or low-volume manufacturing would be advantageous but isn't essential.
The exact machine or control you've previously worked with is less important than having strong, transferable machining knowledge.
The Person
Alongside your technical ability, we're looking for somebody who:
- Takes pride in their machining.
- Has drive and initiative.
- Can work independently.
- Enjoys solving technical problems.
- Takes ownership of their work.
- Wants to continue developing technically.
- Is comfortable with responsibility.
- Is looking for a long-term engineering opportunity.
If your experience has predominantly involved loading/unloading or operating pre-set machinery, this position is unlikely to be the right level.
However, if you're comfortable being given a drawing and taking responsibility for programming, setting, machining and inspecting the finished component, we'd be very interested in speaking with you.
What's On Offer?
- £18.50 - £20.50 per hour depending on experience.
- Permanent employment.
- 40-hour working week.
- Paid breaks.
- Company pension.
- Sick pay.
- Established heavy engineering environment.
- Technically interesting, high-value machining work.
- Continued investment in machining capability.
- Long-term development opportunities.
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CNC Machinist employer: Castle Employment Group
Join a vibrant and supportive team in York as an Administration Coordinator, where your contributions will be valued and recognised. We offer a friendly work culture that encourages collaboration and personal growth, alongside competitive benefits and a commitment to employee development. This role provides a unique opportunity to take ownership of your responsibilities while enjoying a fulfilling career in a close-knit environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CNC Machinist
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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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
When you find a role at a company you love, like Castle Employment Group, 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 Castle Employment 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 Castle Employment Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Castle Employment 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 Castle Employment 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.
