CNC Operator
For over 40 million people in the UK, spectacles are the first thing reached for in the morning, and the last thing taken off at night. Even the overworked smartphone cant seize pole position. But the optical industry hasnt changed in over three centuries. Products are tired, standards are poor, and glasses wearers have got used to sub-standard experiences. The reason we exist is to change this for the better. Were not an eyewear brand. Were a spectacles maker. At the heart of our business are our frames - handmade from the best materials. Designed to be worn, serviced, repaired and renewed.
The CNC Operator plays a key role in Cubitts spectacle-making operation, maintaining the day-to-day running of the CNC machinery in our Kings Cross workshop and ensuring every frame component is cut and finished to the highest standard. Working closely with the workshop team, the role also supports the adoption of new, planned technological improvements over the coming months, helping the team get the most from new equipment and processes. The CNC Operator keeps production running smoothly, safely and efficiently, all while representing Cubitts values and mission with pride. As an agile team this role will also require hands on spectacle making when required and youll be trained in all aspects of spectacle making. This will be split 80/20
CNC Operator tasks will include:
Machine Operation: Set up, operate and monitor the CNC machine(s) to cut and shape frame components to Cubitts' quality and design specifications.
Machine Maintenance: Carry out routine cleaning, maintenance and calibration of CNC equipment, minimising downtime and flagging any faults promptly.
Quality Control: Inspect components at each stage for accuracy and finish, catching and resolving issues before they reach the wider making team.
Technology Adoption: Support the trial and rollout of new CNC technology and process improvements planned over the coming months, testing new equipment and feeding back on performance.
Materials & Stock: Manage day-to-day stock of raw materials used in CNC production, flagging shortages and reordering needs in good time.
Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve routine machine faults, escalating more complex issues to the appropriate specialist or supplier.
Programming & Tooling: Read and adjust CNC programs and tooling set-ups to suit different frame designs and materials.
Health & Safety: Follow safe operating procedures for machinery, PPE and workshop standards at all times.
Records: Keep accurate records of machine output, downtime and maintenance activity.
Collaboration: Work closely with the wider workshop team to keep production flowing smoothly and on schedule.
What is expected of a CNC Operator
Technically capable understands CNC machinery, tooling and cutting processes for spectacle frame components, and can read technical drawings and machine programs.
Detail-focused catches inconsistencies and defects early, and holds a consistently high standard of finish.
Safety-conscious follows safe machine operating procedures and workshop standards without exception.
Reliable executor delivers work efficiently, consistently meets deadlines, and follows through on commitments.
Problem solver diagnoses machine faults methodically, evaluates options, and knows when to escalate.
Innovative mindset curious about new technology, comfortable testing new equipment and processes, and open to changing ways of working.
Collaborative team player works effectively with the wider workshop team to keep production on track.
Personally effective self-aware, actively seeks feedback, and committed to following through on goals.
2026 Goals
Goals for this year, agreed alongside the workshops production operating model:
Machine uptime
Maintain CNC uptime of 95%, minimising unplanned downtime.
Quality
Achieve <1% defect rate on CNC-cut components.
Technology adoption
Support the successful rollout of planned CNC technology improvements, with the team trained and operational on schedule.
Our Values
Pioneers
We try to improve things, by doing things better or more simply celebrating both innovation and failure.
Team Members
Approaches situations with an innovative spirit
Uses initiative to get things done
Eager to learn and grow professionally (both vertically and horizontally)
Positive in the face of changes and challenges
Proud
We take pride in doing things properly, even when were exhausted.
Team Members
Takes pride in their work always and always strives to achieve the highest standards
Consistent in the quality and standard of their work
An inspiring team member who always goes above and beyond
For all
We treat everyone with the same warmth and respect, and without ego.
Team Members
Humble and empathetic towards colleagues and customers
Prioritises shared goals over personal ones
Happy to step outside of their job description to support others
Communicates openly and honestly, listening to and respecting everyone's point of view
Recognises strengths in those around and finds ways to celebrate them
Some nice things youll get
Complimentary spectacles and discount
Complimentary eye examination for you, your friends and family
Spectacle making class
Cycle to work Scheme
Buy and sell holiday
Life assurance
Community socials
Refer a friend scheme
Annual season ticket loan
Personalised training & development
Discounted gym membership
Sabbatical
Paid time away for the important moments in life
Contract type
40 hours a week flexible across 7 days
Salary band
£13.85 per hour
Working location
Workshop based, Kings Cross, London
