CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
STR Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Program, set up, and operate CNC machines to create high-precision components.
  • Company: Leading precision engineering client in Woodley, Reading.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, 20 days holiday, pension scheme, and training opportunities.
  • Other info: Full-time role with potential for overtime and long-term career growth.
  • Why this job: Join a high-quality engineering environment and advance your CNC career.
  • Qualifications: Proven CNC experience, strong programming skills, and ability to read technical drawings.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

We are currently recruiting on behalf of a leading precision engineering client for an experienced CNC Engineer to join their manufacturing team in Woodley, Reading. The salary is dependant on experience. The successful candidate will be responsible for programming, setting, and operating CNC machines to produce high-precision components in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled CNC professional looking to develop their career within a high-quality engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Program, set up, and operate CNC machines (mills and/or lathes)
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models
  • Select appropriate tooling, machining strategies, and materials
  • Carry out in-process inspection using precision measuring equipment (calipers, micrometers, gauges, etc.)
  • Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and programming issues
  • Work closely with engineering and production teams to improve efficiency and reduce waste
  • Carry out routine machine maintenance and basic servicing
  • Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards
  • Maintain accurate production and job records

Requirements

  • Proven experience as a CNC Engineer, CNC Machinist, or CNC Programmer
  • Strong CNC programming skills (G-code)
  • Experience with CNC controls such as WinMax and/or Mazatrol (preferred)
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and CAD files
  • Experience using precision measuring tools
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work to tight tolerances
  • Good problem-solving and communication skills
  • Understanding of UK health and safety regulations in manufacturing

Desirable Experience

  • Experience with CAD/CAM software (hyperMILL preferred)
  • Background in aerospace, Formula 1, defence, or other high‑precision industries
  • Formal qualification in CNC machining or engineering
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems

Working Hours & Environment

  • Full‑time, permanent position
  • Workshop/manufacturing environment
  • Overtime may be available during busy periods
  • Role involves regular standing and hands‑on machine work

Benefits

  • Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
  • 20 days holiday plus UK bank holidays
  • Pension scheme
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Long‑term career progression within a growing engineering business

CNC Machinist employer: STR Group

Join a leading precision engineering firm in Woodley, Reading, where your skills as a CNC Machinist will be valued and nurtured. With a commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive work culture, this company offers a unique opportunity for career progression in a high-quality engineering environment. Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including training opportunities and a pension scheme, while working alongside dedicated professionals in a dynamic workshop setting.
STR Group

Contact Detail:

STR Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land CNC Machinist

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work with CNC machines. They might know about openings that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can really give you an edge.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! If you have a portfolio of projects or examples of your CNC work, bring them along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise and passion for precision engineering.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your G-code programming and be ready to discuss how you troubleshoot issues on the shop floor. Employers love candidates who can think on their feet and solve problems.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for skilled CNC professionals like you. 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 Machinist

CNC Programming (G-code)
CNC Machine Operation
Reading Engineering Drawings
CAD Model Interpretation
Tool Selection
Machining Strategies
In-Process Inspection
Precision Measuring Equipment
Troubleshooting Skills
Collaboration with Engineering Teams
Routine Machine Maintenance
Health and Safety Compliance
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your CNC experience and skills. We want to see how you've programmed, set up, and operated CNC machines in the past, so don’t hold back on those details!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're passionate about CNC machining and how your background aligns with our needs. Keep it engaging and relevant to the role.

Show Off Your Technical Skills: Mention specific CNC controls you’ve worked with, like WinMax or Mazatrol. If you’ve got experience with CAD/CAM software, let us know! We love seeing those technical skills in action.

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

How to prepare for a job interview at STR Group

✨Know Your CNC Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your CNC programming skills, especially G-code. Familiarise yourself with the specific CNC controls mentioned in the job description, like WinMax and Mazatrol, so you can confidently discuss your experience during the interview.

✨Read the Engineering Drawings

Practice interpreting engineering drawings and CAD files before the interview. Being able to demonstrate your understanding of these documents will show that you're ready to hit the ground running and can follow specifications accurately.

✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced while programming or operating CNC machines. Highlight how you identified issues and implemented solutions, as this will showcase your critical thinking and troubleshooting abilities.

✨Safety First!

Brush up on UK health and safety regulations relevant to manufacturing. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your work, as this is crucial for any role in a workshop environment.

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