CNC Machinist Specialist- Contract

We are looking for a CNC Machinist Specialist setter and operators for either Turning or Milling machines. The CNC Setter / Operator is responsible for accurately setting up and operating multi‑axis CNC milling and turning machines in a low‑volume, precision shop. The role demands proficiency with Heidenheim and Fanuc controls, and the ability to translate detailed engineering drawings into flawless component parts. The successful candidate will collaborate with engineering and Quality teams to continually improve processes and ensure the highest quality standards.

We pride ourselves on mission focused innovation, where performance excellence is at the heart of everything we do. We’ll provide you with all the equipment you will require from clothing, Safety Shoes, PPE as well as all Tooling and Gauging required, alongside meaningful work that will allow you to grow your skills and enhance your career with us, but equally important to us is that you enjoy a strong work life balance.

If you are interested in joining a growing team working on exciting programmes there has never been a better time to apply! We may not know what’s going to change the world next, but chances are we’re already working on it, and you can be part of the story too!

Equal Opportunity Statement

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 recognize the importance of leveraging the unique talents and experiences of all our employees to drive innovation, deliver superior solutions, and maximize value for our customers. Our focus is on identifying the most qualified candidate for each role, regardless of their background. If you are interested in a position, we invite you to share how your skills and perspectives could bolster our team and encourage you to apply, even if you feel your qualifications do not fully meet all the job criteria outlined in our advertisement. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive for all individuals. We are prepared to accommodate reasonable adjustments for applicants as needed. If you require assistance or adjustments to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact recruitment@global.lmco.com.

Responsibilities:

• Working within a machine shop environment on 3, 4 and 5 axis CNC machining centres using Heidenheim and Fanuc controls.
• Editing CNC programs, set fixtures and tooling, proving out and operating CNC multi-axis machines to produce R and D and production component parts.
• Making work offset, tooling and program adjustments as required.
• Working to specifications, procedures and engineering drawings.
• Inspecting produced parts using various measuring instruments and hand gauges and interprets CMM inspection results.
• Supporting the development of machining processes and tooling/fixture design.
• Liaising with engineering to improve machining methods.
• Using problem solving techniques to solve machining and process related issues.
• Prioritising workload to meet deliverable commitment timelines.

Desired Skills:

• Dual‑Machinery Proficiency – Demonstrable ability to operate and set‑up both CNC milling and CNC turning machines.
• Advanced CNC Programming skills – Capable of interpreting 3‑ to 5‑axis toolpaths generated from CAD/CAM systems such as Edgecam, MasterCAM, Fusion 360, and similar platforms.
• Data‑Driven Tool Management expertise – Tracks and documents run data, monitors tool wear, and provides evidence‑based recommendations for tool life optimization.
• Continuous‑Improvement Mindset – Actively participates in Kaizen, Lean, or other continuous‑improvement programs and contributes actionable ideas for process enhancement.

Business Environment:

Lockheed Martin (UK) Ampthill is a rapidly changing, dynamic part of the Lockheed Martin Corporation with both domestic and international customers. It consists of business areas focusing on Platform Integration, Ground Based Air Defence, Special Projects and Weapons, which provide a variety of products and services to the Ministry of Defence and other customers. We are looking for talented individuals to join the company, in return we offer an exciting and challenging career path and excellent work/life balance with a 4 day week (Mon-Thurs) and flexible working arrangements.