Lancaster Instruments designs and builds precision machines and robotics. Our work includes laboratory automation for IVF clinics, test equipment for the nuclear industry and one-off machines for individual clients. We’re a small team with our own workshop and in-house CNC machining, which means we get from CAD to working hardware quickly.
We’re looking for a CNC machinist to make the parts our engineers design and to take charge of running our workshop. We have a full order book and work waiting, so an immediate start is available for the right person.
What you’ll do
You’ll be responsible for the workshop and work alongside our engineers every day. Most of what we make is one-offs and small batches, so no two jobs are the same, and drawings won’t always be complete. We need someone who works things out, asks when they’re unsure and gets on with it.
- Program, set and run our CNC machines, including an XYZ1010 vertical machining centre, to make precision parts from drawings and CAD models
- Decide how each part is made and held, and plan the work so builds aren’t left waiting on parts
- Inspect your own work and make sure parts are right before they leave the workshop
- Run the workshop: keep it organised, safe and stocked with material and tooling, and keep the machines maintained
- Shape how the workshop grows, including choosing and commissioning the new machines you think we should invest in
- Advise our engineers on how to make their designs easier to machine
- Machine parts for our subcontract customers as well as our own projects
- Help with assembly and builds when machining is quiet
Who we’re looking for
You don’t need a particular qualification. We care about evidence that you can make accurate parts and run a workshop without supervision. That might come from an apprenticeship, a toolroom, a prototype or jobbing shop, or years on the machines.
What matters most:
- You can take a part from drawing to finished component on a CNC mill, including programming, workholding, setting and inspection
- You’re comfortable with one-offs and prototypes, not only long production runs
- You take care over your work and notice when something isn’t right
- You’re organised and will treat the workshop as your own
- You’re reliable and enjoy working in a small team
Useful but not required:
- Experience machining stainless steel and exotic materials like titanium.
- CNC or manual turning
- Mechanical assembly or fabrication, including TIG welding
Requirements:
This is a full-time, on-site role, so you’ll need to already live within commuting distance of Lancaster. We aren’t able to support relocation. You’ll also need the right to work in the UK. We aren’t able to offer visa sponsorship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CNC Machinist in Lancaster
✨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!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Lancaster Instruments, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
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!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Lancaster Instruments 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!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster Instruments
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Lancaster Instruments, 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!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
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 Lancaster Instruments 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.
