Job Opportunity: CNC Machinist
Date Posted: 2026-09-15
Country: United Kingdom
Location: Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire
Position Role Type: Onsite
Location: Leighton Buzzard
Shift: Day Shift
Are You Ready to Shape the Future of Aircraft Interior Components?
At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defence company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defence industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defence.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced CNC Machinist with expertise in operating and programming 5-axis milling machines to join our Machining team in Leighton Buzzard. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering precision-engineered components to exacting specifications while ensuring adherence to quality, safety, and efficiency standards. This role is vital to supporting our commitment to excellence in the aerospace.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate and set up 5-axis CNC milling machines to produce high-precision components in line with engineering drawings and specifications.
- Adjust machine settings and tooling to optimise performance and ensure product quality.
- Execute the tactical day plan and ensure throughput targets are met by coordinating resources, addressing bottlenecks, and maintaining a smooth flow of operations.
- Act as the primary focal point for the machining and extrusion cell, ensuring operational excellence and addressing challenges.
- Assess and resolve issues on the floor promptly, knowing when to elevate concerns to the supervisor as needed.
- Provide mentorship and guidance to operators, promoting skill development and best practices.
- Deputise for the supervisor during their absence, including participating in relevant meetings, such as planning and quality discussions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure production goals, quality standards, and safety protocols are met.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise processes and enhance overall efficiency within the cell.
- Monitor and report on KPIs, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience in operating and programming 5-axis CNC milling machines, preferably in a high-precision engineering environment.
- Strong understanding of engineering drawings, geometric dimensioning, and tolerancing (GD&T).
- Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on detail and accuracy.
- Knowledge of aerospace industry standards is highly desirable.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong commitment to EH&S and Quality standards.
Preferred Skills & Experience:
- Time-served apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in fabrication or mechanical engineering.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience working with fabrication equipment in a production or manufacturing environment.
Why Join Us?
At Collins Aerospace, we believe in empowering our people to make a real difference. You'll be part of a supportive, innovative team where your contributions are valued, and your career growth is encouraged. With excellent benefits, a flexible working environment, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge aircraft interior components, this is the perfect chance to take your machining career to the next level.
What We Offer:
- 25 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Fantastic Pension Scheme
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme for personal support
- Cycle to Work Scheme and other employee discounts
RTX adheres to the principles of equal employment. All qualified applications will be given careful consideration without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
CNC Machinist in Leighton Buzzard employer: RTX (Raytheon)
At RTX, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Winnersh facility near Reading, where innovation and collaboration thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation, and a robust benefits package that includes generous leave, private medical insurance, and a strong pension scheme. Join us to be part of a leading aerospace and defence company that values its people and empowers them to make a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CNC Machinist in Leighton Buzzard
✨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 RTX (Raytheon), 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 RTX (Raytheon) 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 RTX (Raytheon)
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with RTX (Raytheon), 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 RTX (Raytheon) 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.
