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- Tasks: Create and optimise CNC programs for advanced milling machines using CAD/CAM software.
- Company: Join a respected precision machining company with a strong engineering heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, overtime pay, and tailored benefits package.
- Why this job: Lead innovative projects and mentor junior team members in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven CNC programming experience and ability to interpret complex engineering drawings.
- Other info: Genuine opportunities for career progression in a growing business.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM)
Company Overview:
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and respected precision machining company with a strong engineering heritage. Known for producing high-precision, high-value components, the company supports a wide range of industries including aerospace, defence, oil & gas, and communications. With a strong reputation, longstanding customer relationships, and a solid order book, the business continues to invest in people, technology, and process.
Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Role Overview
We are currently seeking an experienced Lead CNC Programmer to take a key role within the engineering department. This position will suit a highly skilled individual with proven expertise in offline programming for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines using CAD/CAM software. You will be responsible for programming all new work coming into the business — interpreting models and technical drawings, creating efficient programs, and supporting improvements on existing jobs. You\’ll work within a collaborative and friendly team environment, and play a vital role in supporting and developing less experienced team members.
Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Key Responsibilities
- Create offline CNC programs for 3/4/5-axis milling machines using CAD/CAM software
- Work directly from 3D models and engineering drawings to produce accurate and efficient machining strategies
- Lead the introduction of new jobs into the workshop, ensuring quality and efficiency from the outset
- Review and improve existing CNC programs for better cycle times, tooling efficiency, and process reliability
- Support and mentor junior programmers and machinists as part of a collaborative engineering team
- Liaise with production, quality, and engineering teams to ensure successful project delivery
- (Optional/Desirable) Support the estimating process for new enquiries — assisting in quoting time and tooling requirements
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support wider engineering objectives
Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Candidate Requirements
- Strong CNC programming background with proven experience in 3, 4, and 5-axis milling
- Skilled in the use of CAD/CAM software for offline programming
- Background in a precision machining environment — ideally within aerospace, defence, oil & gas, or similar sectors
- Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and 3D CAD models
- Confident communicator with a team-first mindset and willingness to share knowledge
- Proactive approach to improving manufacturing processes and mentoring others
- Any experience in estimating or quoting would be advantageous
- Desire to progress within the business — with potential future opportunities such as Head of Engineering
Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) What\’s on Offer
- £50,000 per annum
- Overtime available and paid at a premium rate
- Flexible start and finish times days based Monday to Friday
- Negotiable benefits package tailored to attract top talent
- Modern facility with continued investment in machinery, software, and people
- Genuine progression opportunities in a growing and stable business
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Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) employer: James Kirby Associates Ltd
Contact Detail:
James Kirby Associates Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the precision machining industry, especially those who work in aerospace or defence. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best CNC programming projects to interviews. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your expertise in CAD/CAM software and how you've improved processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you're keen on, don’t wait for them to post a job. Send them a message expressing your interest and how you can contribute to their engineering team. We love seeing initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our collaborative team and contributing to our continuous improvement initiatives.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your CNC programming experience, especially with 3, 4, and 5-axis milling. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in CAD/CAM software!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Lead CNC Programmer role. Share specific examples of your past work and how you’ve improved processes or mentored others in your previous roles.
Show Off Your Team Spirit: We love a collaborative environment, so make sure to mention any experiences where you’ve worked closely with teams. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve supported junior team members in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Kirby Associates Ltd
✨Know Your CNC Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your CNC programming skills, especially with 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used CAD/CAM software to create efficient machining strategies. This will show that you not only understand the technical side but can also apply it practically.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves mentoring junior programmers and working within a collaborative team, be prepared to share examples of how you've supported others in the past. Highlight any experiences where you've led a project or helped improve processes, as this will demonstrate your leadership potential.
✨Get Familiar with the Company
Do some homework on the company’s background in precision machining and the industries they serve, like aerospace and defence. Understanding their values and recent projects can help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to interpreting engineering drawings and 3D models. Practise explaining your thought process when creating CNC programs and how you approach problem-solving. This will help you convey your expertise and confidence during the interview.
