CAM Engineer

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

Job summary

First Base Employment is seeking an experienced CAM Engineer in Nuneaton to produce high-quality CNC programmes and toolpaths for complex components. You will collaborate with Engineering, CNC Machinists and Production to optimise strategies, improve efficiency and ensure quality throughout production.

The role focuses on complex, low-volume prototype work rather than repetitive production tasks, with the opportunity to support prove-out and first-off manufacturing while maintaining revision

Qualifications

• 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 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.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Competent using Microsoft Office applications.

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 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.

Skills

CAM programming

3+2 toolpaths

CNC milling

GD&T

Drawings interpretation

Machining strategies

PowerMill

NC Works

WorkNC

MS Office

Education

NVQ/Apprenticeship/Engineering qualification

Tools

PowerMill

NC Works

WorkNC

PowerShape

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.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Competent using Microsoft Office applications.

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.
• Understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement techniques.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and engineering documentation control.

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.

Personal Attributes

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• High attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• A proactive approach to continuous improvement.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• A positive and flexible attitude.
• Pride in producing high-quality work.