Head Machinist / Senior CNC Machinist

Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: Up to £60,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking an experienced and highly capable Head Machinist to join their growing manufacturing team in Milton Keynes.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled CNC professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can work independently with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will be responsible for programming, setting and machining complex components while taking ownership of machining operations within the workshop.

This role would suit someone who enjoys autonomy, possesses strong technical knowledge, and is comfortable making decisions to ensure production targets and quality standards are achieved.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, set and operate CNC machining centres.
• Manufacture complex precision-engineered components to tight tolerances.
• Work independently to manage machining projects from start to finish.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Optimise machining strategies and improve cycle times where appropriate.
• Ensure all parts meet customer quality requirements.
• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues.
• Maintain excellent workshop and machine standards.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and best practices.

Machinery & Software

The successful candidate should have experience with:

• 5-Axis CNC Machining Centres
• Fanuc Controls
• Hypermill CAM Software (desireable)
• CNC Turning / Lathe Operations

Candidate Profile

• Proven experience as a Senior CNC Machinist, Lead Machinist or Head Machinist.
• Strong experience in 5-axis CNC machining.
• Comfortable programming, setting and operating independently.
• Experience with Fanuc controls.
• Hypermill experience is highly desirable.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to work.
• Capable of learning quickly and adapting to changing priorities.

Salary & Benefits

• Up to £60,000 per annum depending on experience.
• Opportunity to play a key role within a growing business.
• High levels of autonomy and responsibility.
• Exposure to advanced CNC technology and challenging projects.
• Long-term career progression opportunities.

Please note: Due to the urgency of this requirement, candidates with short notice periods or immediate availability will be particularly attractive.