Level 3 CNC Programmer
Location: Euroway, Bradford
Salary dependent on experience
Full time- shifts 6am to 2pm / 2pm to 10pm
Job purpose
Create, develop, edit and optimise CNC programmes and machining processes for precision-engineered composite components used in demanding industries, including aerospace. Use technical expertise to ensure machining processes are safe, efficient and accurate, supporting consistent component quality and production performance.
Key duties
- Create, edit and optimise CNC programmes for precision-engineered components, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Interpret engineering drawings, samples and sketches to determine machining requirements, including specifications and tolerances.
- Develop and improve machining processes to maximise efficiency, reduce waste and maintain high standards of component quality.
- Set and operate CNC milling or turning machines where required and within the scope of experience.
- Carry out first-off, in-process and final inspections to ensure components meet required specifications.
- Complete production, programming and inspection documentation accurately and in line with company procedures.
- Follow all health and safety requirements, quality standards and job instructions.
- Identify opportunities to improve machining processes and contribute to lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Work closely with production, planning, quality and engineering teams to resolve technical issues and support production requirements.
- Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment, supporting wider manufacturing activities when required.
Measurable responsibilities
- Programme delivery: Complete allocated CNC programmes and supporting machining documentation within agreed timescales. Record completion dates and raise any potential delays or issues at the earliest opportunity.
- Verification and release: Carry out and document the required programme checks and controlled prove-out procedures for all new or revised programmes, within the scope of authorisation. Ensure the necessary first-off approvals are obtained before programmes are released for production.
- Revision control: Maintain accurate programme identification, revision records and change histories for all released programmes. Ensure shop-floor documentation reflects the latest approved programme and engineering drawing revisions.
- Process optimisation: Monitor and review cycle times, set-up times, scrap and rework against agreed baselines. Identify and implement improvements, recording measurable results while maintaining safety and component quality.
- Technical problem resolution: Investigate programming and machining issues, identify suitable corrective actions and record the outcomes. Complete assigned actions within agreed timescales and escalate any unresolved concerns.
- Production handover: Ensure all approved programmes, tooling details, set-up instructions, inspection requirements and relevant process information are clearly documented and communicated before production begins.
Skills and experience
- Proven CNC programming experience, including creating, editing and optimising programmes for precision-engineered components.
- Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications and tolerances, translating requirements into effective machining processes.
- Practical CNC setting and operating experience relevant to the machinery used.
- Good understanding of machining processes, tooling, workholding and production methods.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve programming or machining issues.
- A reliable, positive and proactive approach, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Willingness and ability to work shifts as required.
- A strong commitment to health and safety, quality standards and good housekeeping.
- Good communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different departments.
- Knowledge of Fanuc, Siemens, Heidenhain or similar CNC controls would be beneficial.
- Previous experience working with aerospace components or composite materials would be advantageous.
Demonstrable competencies
- Programming: Create accurate CNC programmes from approved engineering drawings, demonstrating an understanding of machining sequences, component features and required tolerances within the authorised scope of work.
- Verification and prove-out: Follow approved programme verification and controlled prove-out procedures using the relevant machinery and controls. Identify and document any issues, make necessary adjustments and achieve a conforming first-off component for approval.
- Process planning: Develop clear machining plans covering operation sequences, tooling, workholding, set-up instructions and inspection requirements, ensuring the information can be followed accurately by authorised setters and operators.
- Optimisation: Demonstrate improvements to CNC programmes or machining processes, using befo