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- Tasks: Operate and program high-end CNC machines while solving complex manufacturing challenges.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's innovative Operations Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced manufacturing and research projects.
- Qualifications: HNC in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience with CNC machinery.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong commitment to your development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced CNC machinist who enjoys solving complex manufacturing problems and working as part of a collaborative team? We’re looking for a Senior Machinist to join our Operations Team, operating and programming a range of high-end CNC milling, turning and grinding platforms and supporting advanced manufacturing and research projects with major academic and industrial partners.
Responsibilities
- Operate and program CNC machine tools (with opportunities to train on new platforms such as CNC grinding)
- Set up projects and equipment, selecting specialist tooling, work-holding and fixtures
- Provide technical advice and practical support to colleagues, including mentoring less experienced machinists
- Collect machining/manufacturing and dynamic data for research projects, supporting Project Engineers and Managers
- Plan working methods and sequences, prioritising deadlines while maintaining quality
- Maintain accurate records and documentation for projects, machine tools and equipment
- Support general workshop and machine tool maintenance
- Uphold excellent Health & Safety and 5S standards, ensuring a clean, safe, well-organised workshop
- Contribute to IPT meetings with shop-floor updates, progress and data insights
What we’re looking for
- HNC (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience
- Confidence operating a variety of CNC milling, turning and grinding machines
- Strong knowledge of H&S procedures in a manufacturing environment
- Familiarity with measurement techniques (including on-machine measurement)
- Proven ability to keep clear, up-to-date records and documentation
- Evidence of work-holding/fixture solutions (engineering drawings, CAD models, and understanding of clamping/damping effects)
- A proactive approach to problem solving and continuous improvement
Desirable
- Experience with CNC grinding platforms and/or CAD/CAM (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA), GD&T interpretation, or engineering drawing examples.
What we offer
- A minimum of 38 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days), with the option to buy more
- Flexible working opportunities (where applicable)
- A generous pension scheme
- Discounts and rewards across shopping, eating out and travel
- Staff networks and Recognition Awards
- A strong commitment to your development (including a Technical Career Route) and family-friendly policies
It is anticipated that interviews will take place on 30/01/2026 and will include an interview and a tour of the facility. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to selection stage in the week commencing 09/02/2026. If you need any adjustments to take part in the recruitment process, please contact lewis.nicholson@sheffield.ac.uk.
For informal enquiries, contact Lewis Nicholson, Workshop Manager: lewis.nicholson@sheffield.ac.uk | 0785110490.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to interview. We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
Senior Machinist in Rotherham employer: University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Machinist in Rotherham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company before your interview! Research the University of Sheffield and its operations team. Understanding their projects and values will help you connect your skills to what they need, making you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your technical skills! Brush up on your CNC machining knowledge and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've solved complex manufacturing problems in the past. This will show you're not just a talker but a doer.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to prepare questions for them! Asking insightful questions about their projects or team dynamics shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you too.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Machinist in Rotherham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Machinist role. Highlight your CNC machining experience, especially with milling, turning, and grinding, and don’t forget to mention any mentoring you've done!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our Operations Team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We want to see your technical prowess! Include details about the CNC machines you’ve operated, any CAD/CAM software you’re familiar with, and your understanding of health and safety procedures. This will help us see how you can contribute to our advanced manufacturing projects.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the University of Sheffield!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield
✨Know Your CNC Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of CNC milling, turning, and grinding machines. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and the technical challenges you've overcome. This will show that you're not just familiar with the tools, but that you can also solve complex problems.
✨Show Off Your Mentoring Skills
Since the role involves providing support to less experienced machinists, think of examples where you've mentored or trained others. Highlight how you’ve contributed to a collaborative team environment and helped colleagues improve their skills.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about setting up projects, selecting tooling, and maintaining records. Prepare to explain your thought process in planning working methods and prioritising deadlines while ensuring quality. Use real-life examples to illustrate your experience.
✨Health & Safety First
Familiarise yourself with health and safety procedures relevant to a manufacturing environment. Be prepared to discuss how you uphold these standards in your work and any initiatives you've taken to improve safety in the workshop.