CAM Engineer

First Base; Nuneaton; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

First Base in Nuneaton is seeking an experienced CAM Engineer to join our established Engineering team. The role focuses on producing accurate CNC programmes from customer CAD models, and optimising tooling and machining strategies for high-value prototypes.

You will work closely with Engineering, CNC Machinists and Production to improve efficiency, troubleshoot issues, and support manufacture from first-off through to production, while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Proven CAM programming experience in a precision machining environment.
• Experience producing complex 3+2 toolpaths.
• Strong knowledge of CNC milling processes.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models and GD&T.
• Understanding of machining strategies, cutting tools, feeds and speeds.
• Experience with CAM software including PowerMill and NC Works.
• Excellent attention to detail with a methodical problem‑solving approach.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet production deadlines with clear communication.

Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality CNC milling programmes using CAM software, primarily PowerMill and sometimes WorkNC.
• Develop efficient, collision-free toolpaths for complex one-off and bespoke components.
• Maintain and improve programmes for repeat and high-volume manufacturing.
• Interpret drawings, CAD models and customer data to develop manufacturing solutions.
• Select tooling, tool holders and machining strategies to maximise efficiency and quality.
• Identify fixtures and work holding methods prior to production.
• Collaborate with Engineering Manager to understand project scope and requirements.
• Support machinists during prove-out and first-off manufacture with programme improvements.
• Troubleshoot issues and implement corrective actions; maintain revision control.
• Ensure programmes are completed ahead of scheduled production where possible.
• Share knowledge and best practices across Engineering and Manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with quality, health and safety standards.

Education

Engineering Apprenticeship

NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering

HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering

Equivalent proven programming experience

Tools

PowerMill

NC Works

PowerShape

WorkNC

Job description

CAM Engineer

Location: Nuneaton

Salary: 42,000 - 48,000

Hours: Full Time, 37 hours per week

Monday to Thursday: 7:30am - 4:00pm
Friday: 7:30am - 12:30pm

The Role

We are recruiting for an experienced CAM Engineer to join an established Engineering team in Nuneaton.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to work on complex, high-value prototype and low-volume projects rather than repetitive production programming. You will be responsible for producing accurate and efficient CNC machining programmes from customer CAD models and engineering drawings, ensuring components are manufactured safely, efficiently and to the highest quality standards.

Working closely with Engineering, CNC Machinists and Production, you will optimise machining strategies, improve manufacturing efficiency and provide technical support throughout the production process.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality CNC machining programmes using approved CAM software, primarily PowerMill and occasionally WorkNC.
• Develop efficient, collision-free toolpaths for complex one-off and bespoke components.
• Support production requirements by maintaining and improving programmes for repeat and high-volume manufacturing.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models and customer data to develop effective manufacturing solutions.
• Select appropriate tooling, tool holders and machining strategies to maximise efficiency and quality.
• Identify suitable fixtures, work holding and machining methods prior to production.
• Liaise with the Engineering Manager to understand project scope, priorities and manufacturing requirements.
• Support CNC Machinists during prove-out and first-off manufacture, making programme improvements where required.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and implement corrective actions.Maintain programme revision control and ensure the latest documentation is available to production.
• Ensure programmes are completed ahead of scheduled production wherever possible.
• Share technical knowledge and best practice across Engineering and Manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with quality, health and safety standards.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Proven CAM programming experience within a precision machining environment.
• Experience producing complex 3+2 toolpaths.
• Strong knowledge of CNC milling processes.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models and GD&T requirements.
• Understanding of machining strategies, cutting tools, feeds and speeds.
• Experience with industry-standard CAM software such as PowerMill and NC Works.
• Excellent attention to detail with a methodical approach to problem solving.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet production deadlines with strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience using WorkNC, PowerMill and/or PowerShape.
• Experience programming 5-axis CNC machining centres.
• Knowledge of Siemens, Heidenhain or Mazatrol controls.
• Knowledge of prototype or low-volume manufacturing.
• Experience within automotive, aerospace or advanced engineering sectors.

Qualifications

One or more of the following would be advantageous:

• Engineering Apprenticeship.
• NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing.
• HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering or a similar discipline.
• Equivalent proven technical experience in programming.