CNC Programmer & Operator

Salary DOE

The successful candidate will take responsibility for managing the programming and operation of the Company’s five-axis Biesse CNC router.

You will work closely with the CAD design team and Production Manager to ensure projects are technically coordinated, accurately programmed and efficiently prepared for CNC manufacture.

You will also work alongside and support the development of another machinist, ensuring that more than one member of the team is capable of programming and operating the machine effectively.

This is a factory-based role requiring full-time attendance at the Company’s Basildon facility.

‍Key Tasks:

➢ Programme, set up and operate the Company’s five-axis Biesse CNC router safely, accurately and efficiently.

➢ Create, modify and optimise CNC programs from approved production drawings, CAD/CAM models and DXF files.

➢ Maintain close technical coordination with the CAD design team, Production Manager and workshop to maximise the capability and utilisation of the CNC.

➢ Work with the design team from the early stages of project development through to manufacture.

➢ Review projects before the detailed design stage to confirm that components are suitable for CNC manufacture and within the machine’s capabilities.

➢ Review drawings and manufacturing information before production, identifying and resolving potential technical or manufacturing issues.

➢ Set up the correct tooling, jigs, vacuum pods and machine parameters for each machining operation.

➢ Determine appropriate tooling, machining strategies, feeds, speeds and cutting sequences for different materials and component requirements.

➢ Produce and optimise nesting layouts to maximise material yield, reduce machining time and minimise waste.

➢ Carry out toolpath checks, simulations and test runs where required to identify potential errors, collisions or manufacturing issues before production.

➢ Measure and inspect completed components against approved drawings, specified dimensions and required tolerances before releasing them to the workshop.

➢ Diagnose and resolve programming, tooling and machining issues, escalating mechanical or electrical faults where specialist support is required.

➢ Plan and prioritise CNC workloads in accordance with the production programme, reporting progress, delays or potential capacity issues to the Production Manager.

➢ Maintain accurate CNC program files, tooling records, production documentation and drawing revision control.

➢ Carry out and record daily machine inspections, cleaning and routine preventative maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

➢ Monitor tooling condition and stock levels, ensuring cutters and consumable items are sharpened, replaced or reordered before they affect production.

➢ Maintain the machine and surrounding work area to a high standard, ensuring all tooling is stored correctly and kept in suitable working condition.

➢ Support and train the additional machinist to provide effective operational cover for CNC programming and machine operation.

Responsibilities:

▪ Proven experience programming, setting and operating three-axis or five-axis CNC machinery within a bespoke joinery, cabinetry or furniture-manufacturing environment.

▪ Experience with Biesse machinery and associated programming software would be highly advantageous.

▪ Strong understanding of CAD/CAM programming, toolpaths, tooling selection, nesting, feeds and speeds.

▪ Ability to interpret detailed production drawings, cutting lists, technical specifications and manufacturing information accurately.

▪ Strong understanding of bespoke joinery construction and manufacturing methods.

▪ Good understanding of the machining characteristics of MDF, MFC, plywood, laminates, veneers, solid timber and other materials commonly used in bespoke joinery.

▪ Proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD for reviewing and preparing drawings and DXF files, together with experience using relevant CAD/CAM software to create CNC programmes.

▪ Willingness to learn and develop proficiency in SolidWorks and SWOOD for 3D modelling and the efficient preparation of manufacturing information for CNC production.

▪ Ability to work independently and take ownership of allocated projects and workloads.

▪ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to identify and resolve programming and machining issues.

▪ Strong Microsoft Office 365 skills, particularly Excel, Outlook and Word.

▪ Good verbal and written communication skills, with a professional manner.

▪ Hold a clean, full UK driving licence.

▪ Be committed, hardworking and capable of working to demanding project deadlines with strong attention to detail.

▪ Monitor emails and communications as required and remain flexible when responding to management and changing production requirements.

▪ Be willing to learn new CAD, CAM and manufacturing software through Company training and contribute to the implementation of improved systems and processes.

Note to candidate:

You will be provided with an office-based workstation, including a dual-screen computer connected to the Company server and access to the systems and information required to perform your role.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person