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- Tasks: Lead and mentor a team while programming advanced CNC machines for defence projects.
- Company: Specialist defence engineering manufacturer with a focus on precision machining.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, competitive salary, and long-term job stability.
- Why this job: Step into a technical leadership role and make a real impact in defence engineering.
- Qualifications: Strong CNC milling experience, especially with 5-axis machines, and mentoring skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for clear progression into formal Team Lead responsibilities.
The predicted salary is between 42550 - 59570 £ per year.
We are supporting a specialist defence engineering manufacturer in the search for a Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist to join a precision machining facility delivering complex, low-volume components for secure programmes. This is a technical-first role with responsibility for supporting and guiding a small team within the machining cell. It offers the opportunity to step into a recognised technical leadership position while remaining hands-on.
The Role
- Program, set and prove-out multi-axis CNC machines (3–6 axis)
- Lead on 5-axis milling strategies and optimisation
- Support daily coordination of machining activities within the cell
- Act as the go-to technical specialist for complex components
- Provide mentoring and guidance to other machinists and apprentices
- Contribute to workload prioritisation and cell performance
- Support continuous improvement and problem-solving initiatives
Technical Environment
- Advanced multi-axis machining centres
- Strong bias toward 5-axis milling
- Fanuc and Heidenhain controls
- Complex one-off and R&D components
- Low-volume, high-value defence hardware
What We’re Looking For
- Strong CNC milling background (5-axis preferred)
- Experience in complex one-off or precision machining
- Fanuc and/or Heidenhain programming
- Experience mentoring or supporting other machinists
- Background in defence, aerospace or advanced engineering
- Active SC clearance preferred — candidates with recently lapsed SC may also be considered, subject to eligibility
- Must be eligible to obtain DV clearance
Why Apply?
- 4 day working week (Mon–Thurs)
- Long-term defence programme stability
- Opportunity to influence and support a specialist machining team
- Clear progression pathway into formal Team Lead responsibility
Due to the nature of the work, strict security clearance eligibility criteria apply.
Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist (Progression Opportunity) in Ampthill employer: TXM Recruit
Contact Detail:
TXM Recruit Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist (Progression Opportunity) in Ampthill
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Senior CNC Programmer role. 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! If you’ve got a portfolio of your CNC programming work, make sure to bring it along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise in 5-axis milling and complex machining components.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of Fanuc and Heidenhain controls, as well as your experience with mentoring others. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re all about making the application process smooth and easy for you. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team in this exciting role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist (Progression Opportunity) in Ampthill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your CNC programming skills and experience in precision machining. We want to see how your background aligns with the technical requirements of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the defence sector and how your experience makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves mentoring and guiding others, make sure to highlight any previous leadership or mentoring experiences. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and support their team, so let us know how you’ve done that in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at TXM Recruit
✨Know Your CNC Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your CNC programming skills, especially with 5-axis milling and the controls like Fanuc and Heidenhain. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've programmed or optimised multi-axis machines, as this will show your technical expertise.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and guiding a small team, think of examples where you've led or supported others in a machining environment. Highlight your experience in problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives to demonstrate your capability as a technical lead.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges and requirements of the defence sector. Be prepared to discuss how your background in advanced engineering or aerospace aligns with the company's mission and how you can contribute to secure programmes.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team's current projects, the types of components you'll be working on, and the company's approach to continuous improvement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
