At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate, set, and program CNC machines for precision manufacturing.
- Company: Join an employee-owned company making a global impact in laboratory automation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, healthcare support, profit sharing, and equity options.
- Other info: Enjoy a great work/life balance with spontaneous time off for outdoor activities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team creating tools that help scientists achieve breakthroughs.
- Qualifications: Experience with CNC machining and programming; teamwork and communication skills are essential.
Company Description Singer Instruments designs and builds advanced laboratory automation workstations that help microbiologists scale high-throughput colony picking, screening, and custom workflows. Its instruments are used in thousands of research institutions across more than 60 countries, including leading organizations such as MIT, Stanford, NASA, Google, and Ginkgo Bioworks. Founded in 1934 and headquartered in Somerset, England, Singer Instruments designs and manufactures all products in-house to maintain rigorous quality, reliability, and performance standards. As an employee-owned company, team members have a direct stake in every instrument produced, which drives attention to detail and long-term product excellence. The company is motivated by the belief that biology can enable a healthier, cleaner, and greener planet, and focuses on building tools that help scientists achieve breakthroughs faster.
The role Are you a dynamic, detail-oriented individual with a passion for precision engineering? We're looking for candidates of all experience levels to come and make a big contribution to our small workshop team for the precision manufacture of low volume production and R&D components. You’ll join the Workshop, operating out of an established R&D and manufacturing facility. Our machine shop utilises top-of-the-line equipment, including an NL2500 Lathe, Heidenhain Milling Machines, DMG Mori, and a Spinner 5-Axis.
What you'll bring to our team (key contributions)
- Precision Machining: You will program, set, and operate CNC machines and manual operations to drawings with micron tolerances.
- R&D and Optimisation: You will focus on low volume and R&D manufacturing, driving continuous improvement methodologies and process optimisation.
- Quality Control (QC): You will check components to technical drawings in line with quality processes and procedures, utilising varied metrology tools and equipment to ensure component conformity.
- Workflow Management: You will collaborate to prioritise work schedules with the team to ensure efficient production.
Who you are (essential skills & attributes)
- Experience as a CNC Machinist capable of Operating, Setting, and Programming.
- Experience with FeatureCam Programming and working with a variety of materials.
- The ability to work with very small volumes in a busy, flexible environment.
- The capability to work with metric and imperial measurements.
- Excellent team working skills as well as the ability to drive individual task completion.
- Flexibility, adaptability, and great communication skills.
Bonus Requirements: Experience with CMM, Production Engineering, or Application Engineering. (Plus BBQ Skills!). We are looking for candidates with experience in using our CNC machines and other machine shop equipment such as pillar drills and band saws. We're truly looking for the right individual to join our team, and your unique journey, dynamic personality, and culture fit matter to us.
Reasons to apply (Our Commitment to Work/Life Balance)
- Location & Lifestyle: Your hike / bike / surf / kitesurf is part of your daily life.
- Flexible Options: A great work/life balance (Not often found in CNC jobs!), featuring 9-5 Monday to Friday with truly flexible options.
- Spontaneous Fun: Surf’s-up no-notice time off for surf or weather-related activities.
- Health: Healthcare scheme through WPA and mental healthcare support for all permanent employees.
- Bonuses: Profit Share for Nerds and £1,000 employee referrals from your network.
- Ownership: Equity for Nerds share options scheme.
- Growth: Training and long-term pathway development.
Diversity, Equality and Inclusion We encourage applications from all individuals and respect and appreciate differences and unique ways of thinking. We are flexible and can adapt both our application and assessments by discussing your individual needs first.
Applications: Please apply via our website: https://www.singerinstruments.com/jobs/
CNC Machinist (Operator, Setter, Programmer) employer: Singer Instruments
Singer Instruments is an exceptional employer, offering a unique blend of work-life balance and professional growth opportunities in the heart of Somerset. As an employee-owned company, team members enjoy a direct stake in the success of their innovative laboratory automation products, fostering a culture of collaboration and attention to detail. With flexible working options, a commitment to health and well-being, and a focus on continuous improvement, Singer Instruments provides a rewarding environment for CNC Machinists looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of precision engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CNC Machinist (Operator, Setter, Programmer)
✨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 Singer 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!
We think you need these skills to ace CNC Machinist (Operator, Setter, Programmer)
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 Singer 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 Singer Instruments
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Singer 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 Singer 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.
