Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced Lead CNC Operator to take ownership of our CNC machining operations within a busy manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on role requiring extensive experience in the programming, setting, operation, maintenance, and supervision of wood CNC machinery.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient running of all CNC equipment, supporting production requirements, training operators, and acting as the primary point of contact with machine manufacturers for technical support, software issues, upgrades, and machine breakdowns.
Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will play a key role in maintaining productivity, quality standards, and continuous improvement across the CNC department.
Key Responsibilities
- Program, set, and operate wood CNC machinery, including:
- 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC machines
- Nesting CNC machines
- Optimise machining programs to maximise efficiency and material utilisation.
- Oversee the day-to-day operation of all CNC machinery within the business.
- Diagnose and resolve machine, tooling, and programming issues.
- Liaise directly with machine manufacturers regarding:
- Technical support
- Software support
- Machine servicing and breakdowns
- Upgrades and improvements
- Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules.
- Ensure CNC machines are maintained to a high operational standard.
- Train, mentor, and support CNC operators.
- Establish and maintain best practices for machine setup and operation.
- Work closely with the Design and Production departments to achieve manufacturing targets and quality standards.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and process development.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and quality procedures.
Essential Requirements
- Extensive experience programming, setting, and operating woodworking CNC machinery.
- Strong knowledge of 5-axis CNC machining and nesting machines.
- Proven experience troubleshooting CNC machine and software issues.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and manufacturing specifications.
- Strong understanding of tooling, feeds, speeds, and machining optimisation.
- Experience supervising CNC operations and supporting production teams.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience using SolidWorks.
- Experience using SWOOD software.
- Experience within a furniture, joinery, cabinet manufacturing, or woodworking environment.
- Previous experience training and developing CNC operators.
Evidence of Skills Required
Applicants must be able to demonstrate their CNC programming and machining expertise. Suitable evidence may include:
- Examples of CNC programs or projects completed.
- Portfolio of work produced using CNC machinery.
- Evidence of 5-axis and nesting machine experience.
- Technical assessments or practical demonstrations during the interview process.
- Relevant qualifications, certifications, or training records.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate of £17.50 - £19.00 depending on experience.
- Full-time, permanent position.
- Opportunity to lead and develop CNC operations within a growing manufacturing business.
- Supportive team environment.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
Apply Now
If you are a highly skilled CNC programmer/operator with extensive woodworking CNC experience and are looking for an opportunity to take ownership of a CNC department, we would like to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with evidence of relevant projects and experience.
Pay: £17.50-£19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person
