Manufacturing Engineer

Job Specification – CNC Manufacturing Engineer / CNC Programmer

Job Overview

We are looking for an experienced CNC Manufacturing Engineer/CNC Programmer to join our engineering team. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled manufacturing professional with strong CNC turning experience to play a key role in new product introduction (NPI), process improvement and manufacturing optimisation.

Working closely with production, quality and suppliers, you will be responsible for developing, improving and supporting manufacturing processes while driving continuous improvement across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Programme and re-tool a variety of CNC machine tool controls, with CNC turning being essential.
• Support CNC grinding and milling operations where applicable.
• Apply knowledge of fine finishing processes, including lapping and honing.
• Provide training and technical support to machine setters and operators.
• Produce and maintain manufacturing documentation including:
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Work Instructions
  • Process documentation
  • Engineering drawings
• Plan, develop and validate manufacturing processes from customer enquiry through to full production (New Product Introduction).
• Design and improve tooling and product-related equipment to enhance manufacturing efficiency.
• Work closely with tooling and equipment suppliers to optimise quality, tooling performance and machine capability.
• Support customer issue resolution using structured problem-solving techniques such as 8D.
• Participate in cross-functional Continuous Improvement (CI) projects to improve productivity, quality and cost.
• Identify and implement appropriate measurement and inspection methods for manufactured products.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience programming and setting CNC sliding head lathes.
• Strong CNC turning programming experience.
• Experience developing manufacturing processes within a precision engineering environment.
• Ability to create technical documentation and work instructions.
• Strong problem-solving and continuous improvement mindset.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to train and support production teams.

Desirable

• Experience with CNC grinding and milling.
• Knowledge of lapping and honing processes.
• CAD experience using software such as AutoCAD, Fusion 360 or Edgecam.
• Experience designing tooling and production fixtures.
• Familiarity with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes.
• Knowledge of structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D.

Qualifications

• Engineering qualification (Apprenticeship, HNC/HND or equivalent) preferred.
• CAD qualification or relevant software experience advantageous.

Working Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 8:00am – 4:30pm
• Friday: 8:00am – 2:30pm

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: Up to £48,000 depending on experience.
• Early finish every Friday.
• Opportunity to work on varied projects within a growing engineering department.
• On-the-job training provided where required.

Reason for Vacancy

Due to continued growth and increased workload, we are expanding the engineering department and are looking to add an additional Manufacturing Engineer to the team.