Senior Manufacturing Engineer – CNC
Ampthill, Bedfordshire
Permanent, 37.5 h, 4‑day working week Monday to Thursday
Salary: £55,000 – £70,000
We are seeking an experienced Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead CNC machining strategy and advanced tooling initiatives within the Complex Systems business area. This role will act as the technical focal point for machining operations, driving manufacturing excellence through optimized CNC programming, fixture design, tooling strategy, and process improvement.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in improving machining efficiency, reducing cycle times, increasing yield, and supporting the manufacture of high‑precision complex components. You will collaborate closely with Design Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to develop robust, scalable machining processes capable of supporting both prototype and production environments.
This is a hands‑on technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in multi‑axis machining, CAD/CAM programming, advanced workholding solutions, and manufacturing process optimisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead CNC machining strategy across complex component manufacturing operations.
- Develop, optimise and validate CNC programmes for 3‑axis, 4‑axis and 5‑axis machining centres.
- Design and implement advanced fixturing and workholding solutions to improve repeatability, precision and throughput.
- Select and optimise cutting tools, tooling strategies and machining parameters for a wide range of materials and geometries.
- Drive cycle‑time reduction, process capability improvement and overall equipment efficiency (OEE) initiatives.
- Establish best practices for machining operations, set‑up reduction, tooling management and process standardisation.
- Support new‑product introduction activities through Design for Manufacture (DFM) and Design for Machining (DFMACH) input.
- Troubleshoot complex machining and tooling issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions.
- Work closely with Quality teams to ensure compliance with engineering tolerances, inspection requirements and customer standards.
- Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation including set‑up sheets, tooling lists, process flows and work instructions.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies where appropriate.
- Support capital equipment selection, commissioning and capability validation for new CNC machinery and automation technologies.
- Mentor junior manufacturing engineers, programmers and machinists, providing technical leadership and knowledge sharing.
- Collaborate with suppliers and tooling vendors to evaluate and implement emerging machining technologies and tooling solutions.
- Ensure all machining activities comply with health, safety and environmental standards.
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum 5 years’ experience within a CNC manufacturing or precision machining environment.
- Demonstrated mastery of 3‑axis, 4‑axis and 5‑axis CNC programming and machining processes.
- Expert‑level proficiency in CAD/CAM systems such as Siemens NX, Mastercam, CATIA, HyperMill, Fusion 360 or similar platforms.
- Strong understanding of CNC machining strategies for complex geometries and tight‑tolerance components.
- Deep knowledge of metallurgy, material machinability, cutting tool technology, feeds and speeds optimisation and chip control.
- Extensive experience with advanced workholding, fixture design and modular fixturing systems.
- Strong understanding of GD&T and engineering drawings.
- Proven experience optimising machining processes for cycle time, tool life, surface finish and dimensional capability.
- Experience supporting low‑volume/high‑complexity manufacturing and/or high‑precision production environments.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, root cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Ability to troubleshoot complex manufacturing and machining issues in a fast‑paced production environment.
- Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
- Experience working with ERP/MRP and manufacturing documentation systems.
- Degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering or related discipline.
Desirable Experience
- Experience within aerospace, defence, medical device, motorsport, semiconductor, energy or other high‑precision industries.
- Knowledge of automation, robotic tending, palletisation or lights‑out machining strategies.
- Exposure to additive manufacturing and hybrid manufacturing technologies.
- Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt or Lean certification.
- Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Lockheed Martin is committed to upholding principles of equal opportunity, fostering a work environment that is aligned with our core values of integrity, respect and exceptional performance. We recognise the importance of leveraging the unique talents and experiences of all employees to drive innovation, deliver superior solutions and maximise value for our customers. Our focus is on identifying the most qualified candidate for each role, regardless of their background.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing Engineer - CNC in Ampthill, Bedfordshire
✨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!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
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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!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Energy Jobline CVL 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!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Energy Jobline CVL
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Energy Jobline CVL, 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!
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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 Energy Jobline CVL 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.
