At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative prototypes and precision components in a hands-on engineering role.
- Company: Leading engineering organisation in Bradford with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, full-time contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a collaborative team and continuous improvement culture.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of product development and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: CNC machining experience and ability to interpret engineering drawings.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Elevation Recruitment are working with a leading engineering organisation in Bradford to recruit a Skilled R D Machinist with a strong focus on prototype manufacturing and research development support. This is a highly varied, hands-on role working at the forefront of new product introduction and engineering development.
You will be responsible for machining precision components, one-off prototypes, and small batch experimental parts used in testing and validation processes. You will work closely with design engineers, manufacturing engineers, and quality teams to turn concepts and technical drawings into high-quality physical prototypes, supporting innovation and continuous product development.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC and manual machining equipment to produce prototype and R D components
- Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to manufacture one-off and low-volume parts
- Work closely with design and development engineers to refine and improve prototype designs
- Support rapid iteration of components, making adjustments based on testing feedback
- Ensure high levels of precision, accuracy, and surface finish on experimental parts
- Identify and resolve machining challenges during prototype development stages
- Maintain detailed records of machining processes and prototype builds where required
- Collaborate with engineering teams to improve manufacturability of new designs
- Support tooling development and experimental machining methods
- Ensure compliance with quality expectations appropriate to R D and prototype work
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment in line with 5S principles
- Contribute to continuous improvement of R D machining processes and capabilities
Health, Safety Compliance
- Follow all health and safety procedures within a workshop and R D environment
- Ensure safe operation of all machinery, tools, and prototype materials
- Report risks, near misses, or equipment issues promptly
- Work in accordance with company policies, including risk management and quality standards
- Promote an inclusive, respectful, and professional working environment
Skills Experience Required
- Time-served Engineering Apprentice or equivalent qualification (preferred)
- Strong CNC machining experience essential (manual machining experience also beneficial)
- Previous exposure to prototype, R D, or low-volume precision machining environments highly desirable
- Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and CAD data
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt machining methods for unique components
- Excellent attention to detail with a focus on precision and quality
- Confident working closely with engineers in a development-led environment
- Ability to work independently and contribute ideas to improve design and manufacturability
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
About You
You are likely someone who enjoys problem-solving, working on unique and challenging components, and being involved in the early stages of product development. You thrive in an environment where no two days are the same and take pride in producing high-quality, precision-engineered prototypes that help bring new ideas to life.
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to move into a more development-focused machining role where your work directly contributes to innovation, testing, and new product introduction. You’ll be part of a skilled engineering team where your input will influence design, manufacturing processes, and future production solutions. If you are an experienced machinist looking to step into a more R D and prototype-focused role, apply today through Nicola Jackson at Elevation Recruitment.
Research & Development Machinist employer: Elevation Recruitment Group
Join a leading engineering organisation in Bradford that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work environment where skilled R&D Machinists can thrive. With a strong focus on prototype development, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with design and manufacturing engineers, contributing to cutting-edge projects while enjoying flexible working hours and a commitment to employee growth. The company fosters a culture of continuous improvement and inclusivity, making it an excellent place for those passionate about precision engineering and product development.
Contact Details:
Elevation Recruitment Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research & Development Machinist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work in R&D. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best machining projects to interviews. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your precision and creativity in prototype development.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you’d love to work for, don’t wait for them to post a job. Send them a message expressing your interest and how you can contribute to their R&D efforts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research & Development Machinist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your CNC and manual machining experience in your application. We want to see how your skills align with the role, especially if you've worked on prototypes or in R&D environments before.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor your application to reflect the specific responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their experience with what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elevation Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Machining Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your CNC and manual machining skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in prototype development and how you've tackled challenges in previous projects.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Skilled R&D Machinist. Think about how your experience aligns with interpreting engineering drawings and collaborating with design engineers. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to produce high-quality prototypes.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to talk about times when you've had to adapt your machining methods or overcome obstacles during prototype development. Highlight your strong problem-solving skills and how they’ve contributed to successful outcomes in past roles.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's approach to innovation and continuous improvement in R&D processes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.