CNC Miller / Programmer / Machine Operator 3 Axis VMC in Grimethorpe

This is a hands-on CNC machinist / CNC programmer-setter-operator role in a relatively small (50 employees) but growing motorsport and performance automotive business. It is not a narrow production-machine-operator job. The role is suited to someone who can work independently, make one-off and small-batch precision parts, support R&D, and interact with fabrication, workshop, calibration, dispatch, and stock-control teams.

The strongest fit would be someone who is already confident programming, setting and operating CNC mills, preferably with Siemens controls, Fusion CAD/CAM, and experience in motorsport, turbochargers, performance engines, BMW or VAG vehicles. We are also looking for a driven individual who is keen to manage and grow the CNC shop over the coming years.

Here at Darkside Developments our team is passionate about our brand and our reputation. We have ambitious plans to capitalise on our success, and to achieve this, we require equally talented and passionate people. As a result we are constantly aiming to improve our talent pool and we will always review and consider any CV's and job applications in order to achieve this goal. We prefer experience and enthusiasm over formal qualifications.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK, although we do possess a Tier 2 Sponsorship licence (should an applicant from overseas meet our criteria), however we do prioritise UK applicants.

Future Prospects

As the company continues to grow, staff roles, benefits and responsibilities will grow with it. We are looking for a core team who will be empowered to lead the company in the right direction to continued success. We have a firm belief in allowing employees freedom to work using their own initiative and ideas. Many of our current and future products have been as a result of ideas from our staff at all levels of the business. Investment for the future, as well as Research and Development are taken very seriously meaning staff retention and customer satisfaction are essential so we work hard to keep all our staff happy and enthusiastic.

Benefits of working for Darkside Developments

• Anyone working at Darkside Developments will be working for a fast moving business with great prospects and job satisfaction.
• All current staff are like-minded enthusiasts keen to push the company forward as a team.
• We have an extensive racing calendar and assist all employees with their own projects.
• New purpose built facility with modern, air-conditioned offices, vehicle workshop, fabrication workshop, Chassis Dynamometer, warehousing and dispatch all on one site.
• Competitive salary and substantial performance related bonus scheme.
• Significant ongoing investment in R&D projects, facilities and new equipment.
• Employee Pension Scheme.
• Discounted Car Parts and Labour.

Working Hours

Full Time Roles (Unless otherwise specified) Monday to Friday - 08:00 till 17:00, 28 paid holiday days (including Bank Holidays). Special working conditions may include one late evening per week and weekends away.

Job Purpose

The CNC Machine Operator will be responsible for:

• Milling components to high precision standards.
• Programming, setting and operating CNC milling machine SYIL X9.
• Producing one-off components and small batch work (typically 1–5 units).
• Working with Siemens control systems and Fusion CAD.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Ability to program, set and operate CNC milling machines independently.
• Experience working with Siemens controls.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

Progression within the role is possible, dedication and expansion can lead to further members of staff joining the team and progression to a managerial role. We are aiming to have a further 2 machines within the next 6-12 months (Lathe and 5 axis mill).

Role Benefits

Salary £33,000-42,000 (Depending on Experience). Will involve weekend work and late nights to meet unmovable deadlines.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Check Daily Task List - Ensure task list’s are checked daily and regular to maintain direction and consistency whilst minimising priority errors and maximising productivity. Ensure all completed jobs are ticked off and cleared regularly and daily once complete.
• Wide range of duties include - Research and Development work turbochargers for company owned development vehicles. Track Car and Drag Car.
• Liaise with the Workshop Service Manager - For priority on any workshop jobs requiring machine work.
• Liaise with the Fabrication Unit and Lead Fabricator - To schedule machined parts.
• Liaise with the Lead Powertrain Calibration and Development Engineer - To work with the Powertrain Calibration and Development Engineer when testing any new turbocharger hybrids.
• Liaise with the Dispatch manager - To ensure order fulfilment is met on a daily basis and stock levels are maintained.

Qualifications

No formal qualifications required.

Skills and Abilities

• Good timekeeping.
• General good upkeep in appearance and cleanliness.
• Ability to work with an Apprentice.
• Ability to learn.
• Good communication skills working in a team.
• Creative thinking and problem solving.
• Self-esteem, motivation, and goal setting.
• Organisational effectiveness and leadership.

Experience

• CNC milling machine: 2 years (required).
• Stock control.
• Motorsport engineering / experience.
• BMW / VAG experience would be beneficial.
• Formal qualifications are less important than skill, experience and enthusiasm.

Attributes

Listed below are the preferred minimum characteristics of industry knowledge that will be beneficial to a successful applicant:

• Confident.
• Self-motivated.
• Organised.
• Methodical.
• Able to work as part of a tight knit team.

Only successful candidates will be contacted. We are not currently looking for trainees or apprentices. Any unsuitable applications will not be responded to.

Working Conditions

Normal working conditions will apply. Mainly indoors. Special working conditions may include one late evening per week and Saturday work, working with challenging clients.

Physical Requirements

The role can be physically demanding. Often employee will be required to stand for extended periods of time, lift heavy objects on a regular basis, doing repetitive tasks with few breaks.

Job Types: Permanent, Full-time

Benefits: Company events, On-site parking.

Experience: CNC machining: 2 years (required).

Work Location: In person.