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Job Purpose
Provide expert technical support, process development, and machining optimisation by delivering high‑quality offline CNC programs, machine set up, and advanced manufacturing solutions. The role ensures that customer specifications, quality requirements, and productivity targets are fully met through effective use of CAD/CAM software, tooling optimisation, lean manufacturing practices, and hands‑on problem solving and cost‑effective machining processes.
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Day to Day operations
Develop offline CNC programs, create CAD models, and prepare setup sheets and tooling documentation to support efficient machining. Support operations to run prove‑outs, optimise toolpaths, and resolve machining or tooling issues. Daily activities include reviewing customer specifications, monitoring machining processes for improvement opportunities, applying lean tools, implements corrective actions and collaborating with tooling vendors.
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Principal responsibilities
CNC Programming & Process Development
- Provide clear technical guidance and best‑practice machining methods
- Create high‑quality offline CNC programs using Autodesk (Delcam) Powermill
- Develop 3D CAD models from customer drawings using Powershape or SolidWorks
- Optimise toolpaths, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for efficiency and accuracy
- Define and produce setup sheets, tooling information, fixture drawings, and manufacturing documentation
- Ensure all customer specifications, tolerances, and quality requirements are fully understood and incorporated into programs
- Conduct cutting trials, prove‑outs, and cycle‑time optimisation activities
Technical Support
- Assist with machine selection based on customer requirements
- Support installation projects from initial requirements through to final delivery of prototype parts
- Perform machine setup including workholding, fixturing, probing, and tooling configuration
- Prepare technical reports, documentation, and process sheets
- Troubleshoot machining issues such as chatter, tool wear, dimensional errors, and control alarms
- Provide hands on support during machine acceptance, ramp‑up, and early production to suppliers and operations
- Train CNC control parameters, macros, offsets, and advanced features to operations
- Provide precise cycle times to support bid activities
Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing
- Monitor machining activities to identify opportunities for improvement, waste reduction, and cost savings
- Apply lean methodologies including SMED, 5S, VSM, cellular manufacturing, and flow optimisation
- Conduct time studies and process analysis to drive productivity improvements
- Collaborate with tooling vendors to ensure tooling selection and performance are fully optimised
Quality, NCRs & Root Cause Analysis
- Support investigation of internal and external NCRs (Non‑Conformance Reports)
- Perform root cause analysis and develop corrective and preventive actions
- Ensure corrective actions are incorporated into future programs, fixtures, and machining processes
- Maintain compliance with customer quality standards and documentation requirements
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Qualifications, Skills and Experience
Desirable:
- Apprenticeship, HNC/HND, or degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering
- Previous experience in CNC applications, offline programming, or advanced machining
- Knowledge of automation, probing systems, metrology, and Industry 4.0 technologies
- Experience with CMMs, laser measurement, or in‑process inspection systems
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong CNC programming skills (G‑code/M‑code)
- Proficiency with Autodesk Powermill, Powershape, and/or SolidWorks
- Experience with multi‑axis machining (3‑axis, 4‑axis, 5‑axis) including large components
- Deep understanding of machining principles, cutting tools, and materials
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and apply GD&T
- Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and customer‑facing abilities
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