Tool Maker in St Helens

Tool Maker - CNC / CAM Programmer Location: Haydock, Merseyside Salary: £40,000-£45,000 per annum, dependent on experience Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Shifts - Continetal (4 on 4 off) The Opportunity We are looking to recruit an experienced Tool Maker with strong CNC/CAM programming experience to join our engineering and tooling team in Haydock. This is a hands-on role within a manufacturing environment, focused on the manufacture, modification, maintenance and repair of thermoforming tools and high-precision components. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience using Fusion 360 and/or SolidCAM, alongside practical CNC machining skills. The successful candidate will play an important role in supporting production, improving tooling performance and maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. Key Responsibilities Manufacture, modify and repair thermoforming tools and precision engineering components. Program, set up and operate CNC machinery to achieve tight tolerances. Use CAM software, ideally Fusion 360 and/or SolidCAM, to generate and edit CNC programmes. Operate CNC and manual milling machines, lathes and surface grinding equipment. Read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models. Carry out tooling maintenance, fault-finding and repairs to minimise production downtime. Support tooling development, trials and continuous improvement activities. Maintain stock levels of tooling consumables, including cutters, taps and drills. Work closely with engineering and production teams to meet manufacturing requirements. Maintain high standards of safety, accuracy and workmanship. Essential Skills and Experience Proven experience as a Tool Maker within a manufacturing or precision engineering environment. Strong CNC programming and machining experience. Experience with CAM software, preferably Fusion 360 and/or SolidCAM. Knowledge of CNC controls such as Fanuc, Heidenhain or similar. Practical experience with milling, turning and surface grinding. Ability to interpret technical engineering drawings and CAD models. Experience manufacturing, maintaining and repairing production tooling. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail and a proactive approach. Ability to work independently and effectively within a team. Time-served apprenticeship or equivalent engineering qualification preferred. The Ideal Candidate We are looking for a technically capable, hands-on Tool Maker who can take ownership of tooling projects from programming and machining through to maintenance and repair. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, managing competing priorities and supporting production requirements. Flexibility and availability for overtime are essential to meet business needs. What We Offer Competitive salary of £40,000-£45,000 per annum, depending on experience. Full-time, permanent employment. Overtime opportunities. Pension scheme. On-site parking. Supportive team environment. Training, skills development and opportunities for career progression. How to Apply If you are an experienced Tool Maker with strong CNC/CAM programming skills and are looking for your next opportunity in a manufacturing environment, we would welcome your application. Please apply with your latest CV, highlighting your CNC programming experience, CAM software knowledge and tooling background