CNC Operator in Bedford

CNC Operator in Bedford

Bedford Full-Time 30000 - 42000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Operate and set up advanced CNC machines for bespoke aerospace components.
  • Company: Join a leading aerospace research organisation with a focus on innovation.
  • Benefits: Up to £38,000 salary, pension, private medical, share incentives, and 26 days holiday.
  • Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge aerospace engineering and enjoy diverse, challenging work.
  • Qualifications: Experience in CNC machining and ability to interpret engineering drawings.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career progression in a modernising environment.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.

This role is for machinists who enjoy precision, complexity, and variety, not just running the same program on repeat. You’ll be joining an aerospace research environment producing bespoke, high-value components that support advanced aviation programmes across both civil and defence sectors. The work is technically demanding, low-volume, and quality-led. Exactly the kind of setting where skilled CNC operators thrive.

The organisation is entering a significant period of transformation and investment, modernising facilities, equipment and processes over the coming years. That means stability, progression, and exposure to some of the most advanced aerospace engineering happening in the UK.

What you’ll be working on:

  • One-off and short-run aerospace components
  • Tight tolerances, complex geometries
  • Components linked to cutting-edge aircraft platforms
  • Work where engineering judgement genuinely matters

What you’ll be doing:

  • Setting and operating 3, 4 and 5-axis CNC machines
  • Online programming at the machine (control experience flexible)
  • Working from detailed engineering drawings and GD&T
  • Selecting tooling, fixtures and machining strategies
  • Running multiple machines where required
  • Collaborating closely with supervisors, production and engineering teams

This is complemented by a pension up to 7% matched, private medical, share incentive programme, and 26 days holiday!

If you’re a CNC machinist who wants interesting work, long-term investment, and exposure to the future of aerospace, this is a role worth exploring.

CNC Operator in Bedford employer: SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B Corporation™

Join a forward-thinking aerospace research environment in Bedford, where skilled CNC Operators are valued for their precision and expertise. With a commitment to modernising facilities and investing in employee growth, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises quality and innovation, alongside competitive benefits such as a matched pension scheme, private medical insurance, and generous holiday allowance. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful work in a dynamic sector that shapes the future of aviation.
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Contact Detail:

SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B Corporation™ Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land CNC Operator in Bedford

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the aerospace industry, attend local meetups, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best CNC work to interviews. If you’ve got examples of complex geometries or tight tolerances you've mastered, flaunt them! It’ll help you stand out from the crowd.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC machines and be ready to discuss your programming experience. The more confident you are in your expertise, the better you'll impress potential employers.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for skilled CNC operators who want to be part of something big. Plus, it’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.

We think you need these skills to ace CNC Operator in Bedford

CNC Machine Operation
3-axis CNC Programming
4-axis CNC Programming
5-axis CNC Programming
Reading Engineering Drawings
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
Tool Selection
Fixture Design
Machining Strategy Development
Collaboration with Engineering Teams
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Quality Control

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your CNC experience and any specific skills related to 3, 4, and 5-axis machines. We want to see how your background aligns with the precision and complexity of the role!

Showcase Your Projects: Include examples of past projects where you’ve worked on tight tolerances or complex geometries. This will help us understand your hands-on experience and how you tackle engineering challenges.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so explain why you’re interested in this role and how you can contribute to our aerospace projects without fluff!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our transforming organisation!

How to prepare for a job interview at SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B Corporation™

Know Your CNC Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your CNC knowledge before the interview. Understand the specifics of 3, 4, and 5-axis machines, and be ready to discuss your experience with online programming and working from engineering drawings. This will show that you're not just a machinist but someone who truly understands the intricacies of the role.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

In an environment where engineering judgement matters, be prepared to share examples of how you've tackled complex machining challenges in the past. Think about specific instances where you had to select tooling or adjust machining strategies to meet tight tolerances. This will highlight your critical thinking and adaptability.

Get Familiar with GD&T

Since you'll be working with detailed engineering drawings, make sure you understand Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T). Be ready to explain how you've applied GD&T in your previous roles. This knowledge will demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to quality-led work.

Team Player Vibes

Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to talk about your experience working closely with supervisors and engineering teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success and how you handle feedback. This will show that you're not just a skilled operator but also a great team player.

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