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- Tasks: Lead CNC programming for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines using CAD/CAM software.
- Company: Join a respected precision machining company with a strong engineering heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, overtime pay, flexible hours, and tailored benefits package.
- Why this job: Make an impact in aerospace and defence while mentoring junior team members.
- Qualifications: Proven CNC programming experience and ability to interpret complex engineering drawings.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression in a modern facility with ongoing investment.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
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.
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
- 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
- £55,000-£60,000 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
Lead CNC Programmer (Offline/ CADCAM) in Luton 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 (Offline/ CADCAM) in Luton
✨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 might not even be 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 tackled complex engineering challenges.
✨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 team. We love seeing enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our collaborative engineering team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead CNC Programmer (Offline/ CADCAM) in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead CNC Programmer role. Highlight your experience with 3, 4, and 5-axis milling and your proficiency in CAD/CAM software. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of your past work and how you’ve improved processes or mentored others. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Technical Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical skills in your application. Mention any relevant projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and create efficient machining strategies. We’re keen to see what you can bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Kirby Associates Ltd
✨Know Your CAD/CAM Software Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific CAD/CAM software mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your offline programming skills for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines. Being able to discuss your experience with these tools confidently will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare to Discuss Engineering Drawings
Since interpreting complex engineering drawings is a key part of the role, practice explaining how you approach reading and translating these into CNC programs. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully created machining strategies from 3D models.
✨Show Off Your Mentoring Skills
This position involves supporting and mentoring junior team members, so be prepared to share your experiences in this area. Think of specific instances where you’ve helped others improve their skills or processes, as this will demonstrate your team-first mindset.
✨Highlight Continuous Improvement Initiatives
The company values proactive approaches to improving manufacturing processes. Come prepared with examples of how you've contributed to efficiency improvements in previous roles. Discuss any initiatives you’ve led or been part of that resulted in better cycle times or tooling efficiency.