CAM Engineer – Complex Prototyping & PowerMill Expert

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

Job summary

First Base Employment in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced CAM Engineer to join an established engineering team in Nuneaton. You will produce accurate CNC programmes from CAD models and drawings, focusing on complex, low-volume projects rather than repetitive production work.

You will optimise machining strategies, develop collision-free toolpaths using PowerMill (and occasionally WorkNC), and support CNC Machinists through prove-out and first-off manufacture while ensuring safety and

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 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.

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.

Skills

CAM programming

3+2 toolpaths

CNC milling processes

GD&T interpretation

machining strategies

tool selection

fixture selection

cross-department collaboration

attention to detail

Microsoft Office

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing

HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering

Equivalent proven programming experience

Tools

PowerMill

NC Works

WorkNC

PowerShape

Job description

First Base Employment in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced CAM Engineer to join an established engineering team in Nuneaton. You will produce accurate CNC programmes from CAD models and drawings, focusing on complex, low-volume projects rather than repetitive production work.

You will optimise machining strategies, develop collision-free toolpaths using PowerMill (and occasionally WorkNC), and support CNC Machinists through prove-out and first-off manufacture while ensuring safety and