Cnc Setter/Operative
Quest Employment About the role
Location: Northamptonshire
Pay Rate: £14.00 - £16.00 per hour (DOE)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm
Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Quest Employment is recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing manufacturing business specialising in bespoke panel processing and precision CNC machining. We are seeking an experienced CNC Router Operator to join a friendly and supportive team. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled machinist who takes pride in producing high-quality work and is looking for long-term stability within a company that values its employees.
Working in a clean, heated, and well-ventilated workshop, you will play a key role in producing bespoke components for a range of industries.
The Role
As a CNC Router Operator, you will be responsible for programming, setting, and operating CNC machinery to produce components to precise customer specifications.
Key Responsibilities
- Program, set, and operate 3-axis CNC routers
- Machine MDF, plywood, melamine-faced boards, and similar materials
- Read and interpret technical drawings and job specifications
- Carry out routine machine maintenance and daily checks
- Monitor quality throughout the production process
- Ensure work is completed accurately and efficiently
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to meet production deadlines
- Follow all health and safety procedures
Requirements
- Minimum 3 years experience programming and operating 3-axis CNC routers
- Experience working with MDF, plywood, melamine-faced boards, and similar materials
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Good understanding of CNC machine maintenance and care
- Reliable with excellent timekeeping
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Joinery or woodworking experience is advantageous
Pay & Benefits
- £14.00 - £16.00 per hour depending on experience
- Monday to Friday day shift
- Overtime available during busy periods
- Permanent full-time position
- Clean, heated, and well-ventilated workshop
- Free on-site parking
- Friendly and supportive team environment
- Long-term career opportunity with a growing business
Apply Today
If you are an experienced CNC Router Operator looking for your next opportunity within a company that values quality, craftsmanship, and teamwork, apply today with your up-to-date CV and a member of the Quest Employment team will be in touch.
Your tasks
Operate and programme CNC routers to create bespoke components with precision.
Your profile
3+ years experience with CNC routers and strong attention to detail required.
What's also included
Earn £14.00 - £16.00 per hour, enjoy a clean workspace, and have career stability.
Tech stack & ways of working
Cnc Setter/Operative employer: Quest Employment
Join a dynamic and innovative company that values hands-on expertise and offers a supportive work culture for Field Installation Engineers. With competitive salaries, a comprehensive pension scheme, and opportunities for career development through ongoing training, you will thrive in a role that combines travel with practical problem-solving across major UK retail environments. Experience the satisfaction of working in a varied role while being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence in refrigerated display systems.
Your perspectives
Be part of a friendly team and make high-quality products in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
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
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Quest Employment, 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 Quest Employment 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 Quest Employment
Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Quest Employment, 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 Quest Employment 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.
