CNC Diamond Turning Operator Ultra-Precision Optics

Gooch & Housego; Ilminster; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift uplift 20%

Overtime pay 1.5x after 39h

Overtime pay 2x on Sundays/Bank Hols

25 days holiday

Pension contributions 6%

Company bonus scheme

Health Cash Plan

£500 referral bonus

Job summary

Gooch & Housego in Ilminster, Somerset, is seeking a skilled CNC Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT) Operator. You will set up and run 5-axis diamond turning machines to produce ultra-precision optical components to tight tolerances and finishes.

The role is full-time, Monday to Friday, with rotational shifts after training and a 20% shift premium. You will interpret drawings, select diamond tooling, and perform inspections to ensure nanometre-level finishes.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating CNC SPDT machines or other CNC turning.
• CNC programming skills, including G-code or machine-specific controls.
• Experience with ultra-precision materials like aluminium, copper, nickel-phosphorus, optical polymers.
• Strong understanding of tolerances, form accuracy, and surface roughness.
• Detail-oriented and able to work methodically in a clean environment.
• Ability to work independently in a controlled setting.

Responsibilities

• Interpret drawings, CAD data and surface finish specs.
• Select and handle diamond tooling with care to maintain tool integrity.
• Achieve nanometre-level finishes and sub-micron tolerances.
• Conduct first-off, in-process and final inspections with precision metrology.
• Monitor environmental conditions (temp, vibration, cleanliness).
• Adjust machine parameters to optimise surface quality and cycle times.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration checks and fault diagnosis.
• Collaborate with engineering, metrology and QA teams for improvements.
• Maintain accurate production and inspection records.

Skills

CNC turning experience

CNC programming

Ultra-precision materials

Tools

G-code controls

Job description

Gooch & Housego in Ilminster, Somerset, is seeking a skilled CNC Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT) Operator. You will set up and run 5-axis diamond turning machines to produce ultra-precision optical components to tight tolerances and finishes.

The role is full-time, Monday to Friday, with rotational shifts after training and a 20% shift premium. You will interpret drawings, select diamond tooling, and perform inspections to ensure nanometre-level finishes.