Trainee CNC Operator / Setter

Full-time, permanent position available with an immediate start.

Key Plant Automation Ltd is a leading provider of innovative automation solutions, specialising in advanced welding, positioning, and robotic systems. With a reputation for quality, precision, and reliability, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge technology to industries worldwide.

Due to continued company growth, we are looking for a Trainee CNC Operator/Setter to join our production team.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career in CNC machining and precision engineering. Full training will be provided to the right candidate, with the opportunity to develop your skills in CNC machine operation, setting, inspection, and eventually programming.

Previous experience within an engineering or manufacturing environment would be advantageous, but enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn are more important.

Benefits

• Employment stability
• Competitive salary
• Opportunity to earn a yearly attendance bonus
• Company workwear supplied and maintained
• In-house training courses provided
• Option to join the company pension scheme (NEST)
• Birthday holiday entitlement
• Free on-site secure parking
• Flexible overtime opportunities
• Internal progression and training opportunities

The Company

• World leaders in welding and robot manipulation
• Able to provide bespoke solutions to a world-class customer base
• Design and manufacture high precision mechanical products for industries including wind energy, nuclear, defence, general engineering, and oil & gas
• Machining primarily ferrous materials, with some non-ferrous materials
• Work to high standards of accuracy and quality
• Progressive, forward-thinking, and expanding due to continued growth

The Role

As a Trainee CNC Operator/Setter, you will work alongside experienced members of our machining team and receive practical training to develop your CNC skills.

The role will include:

• Operating CNC milling and/or turning machinery
• Learning how to set CNC machines
• Loading and unloading components safely
• Understanding and following CNC programs
• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings
• Learning to use precision measuring equipment, including verniers, micrometres, and height gauges
• Carrying out quality checks and inspections
• Learning to identify and correct basic machining issues
• Producing components to specified dimensions and tolerances
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organised working area
• Developing an understanding of tooling, cutting speeds, feeds, and machining processes
• Progressing towards independently setting and operating CNC machinery

Our Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is reliable, practical, and keen to develop a career in engineering.

You will ideally have:

• An interest in engineering, machining, or manufacturing
• A willingness to learn and develop new skills
• Good attention to detail
• A practical and hands-on approach to work
• Good communication skills
• The ability to follow instructions and work safely
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• A reliable and positive attitude

Previous experience in a workshop, engineering, manufacturing, or CNC environment would be advantageous, but full CNC experience is not required.

Essential Attributes

• Honest and reliable
• Keen to learn and develop
• Good attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Practical and hands-on
• Willing to undertake training
• Commitment to producing high-quality work
• Good attitude towards health, safety, and housekeeping

Working Hours

Monday – Thursday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday: 7:30am – 4:00pm

Holiday Entitlement

20 days + 8 bank holidays (+ 1 birthday holiday)

The company operates a shutdown period over Christmas.

Career Development

This role offers a genuine opportunity to develop a long-term career within precision engineering. The successful candidate will receive hands-on training and support from experienced machinists, with the potential to progress from CNC Operator to CNC Setter/Operator and eventually CNC Programmer, depending on ability, performance, and development.

If you are looking to start a career in CNC machining and want to learn from an experienced engineering team, we would like to hear from you.

Benefits:

• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person