CNC & General Machinist

Smiths Interconnect; Dundee; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Smiths Interconnect in the United Kingdom is seeking a CNC / General Machinist to set up, operate, and program CNC and manual machines for high‑precision components. You will work within the Operations team, collaborating with production, engineering, and quality partners on precision manufacturing, problem‑solving, and continuous improvement.

You will use Fanuc, Mazak, Siemens, and Heidenhain controls, read engineering drawings, and perform metrology with micrometers, calipers, and CMM reports.

Qualifications

• Experience in CNC machining within a manufacturing or precision engineering environment.
• Ability to write, edit, and optimize CNC programs.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and adjust CNC turning, milling, and grinding machines.
• Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs in Fanuc, Mazak, Siemens, or Heidenhain controls.
• Load and adjust tooling, fixtures, and offsets; perform precision measurements.
• Inspect first-off, in-process, and final parts for quality.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to identify improvements.

Skills

CNC machining

Programming

Reading blueprints

GD&T

English proficiency

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Fanuc

Mazak

Siemens

Heidenhain

Job description

As a CNC / General Machinist, you will set up, operate, and program CNC and manual machine tools to produce high‑precision components that meet engineering, quality, and safety requirements. This role combines CNC programming expertise, hands‑on machining, and technical collaboration to support production, prototype, and continuous improvement activities.

Our Team

You will work within the Operations team, supporting production, engineering, and quality partners. The team focuses on precision manufacturing, problem‑solving, and collaboration to meet production schedules while maintaining high standards for safety and quality.

What You Will Do

• Set up, operate, and adjust CNC turning, CNC milling, and grinding machines to manufacture precision components
• Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs using applicable control languages (e.g., Fanuc, Siemens, Heidenhain)
• Load, set, and adjust tooling, fixtures, workholding, and offsets
• Operate manual lathes, mills, and grinders for prototype or low‑volume production when required
• Perform precision measurement using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM reports, and other metrology equipment
• Interpret engineering drawings, 3D models, tolerances, and GD&T requirements accurately
• Support engineering, production, and third‑party suppliers with drawing interpretation and manufacturability guidance
• Identify potential design or process issues and communicate improvement recommendations
• Conduct first‑off, in‑process, and final inspections to ensure product quality
• Complete production documentation, inspection records, and job travelers accurately
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and perform routine machine maintenance
• Troubleshoot machining issues, tool wear, and process deviations
• Recommend tooling, process improvements, and cost‑saving opportunities
• Collaborate with supervisors and planners to meet production priorities and deadlines

Who You Are (Basic Qualifications)

• 2–5 years of experience in CNC machining within a manufacturing or precision engineering environment (significant relevant experience may substitute for formal qualifications)
• Proven capability in CNC turning, milling, and surface/cylindrical grinding
• Ability to write, edit, and optimize CNC programs
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerances
• Practical knowledge of cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and machining best practices
• Ability to use a full range of precision measuring equipment
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English

What Will Put You Ahead

• Experience with multiple CNC control systems (e.g., Fanuc, Mazak, Siemens, Heidenhain)
• Background in high‑precision industries such as aerospace, automotive, or electronics
• Experience using CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, SolidCAM, Fusion 360)
• Experience with prototype work, small‑batch production, or tooling manufacture
• HNC/HND or equivalent advanced engineering qualification

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods (minimum 2 hours)
• Ability to maneuver throughout office, shop, warehouse, and manufacturing areas
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and carry up to 25 pounds
• Ability to bend, reach, kneel, twist, grip, and perform repetitive motions
• Manual dexterity and coordination to operate machinery and tools
• Ability to manage changing priorities and multiple tasks safely
• Ability to respond to visual and auditory cuesWillingness to work in environments with occasional loud noise; PPE required on the factory floor
• Compliance with all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies, training, and requirements

What Will Put You Ahead

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Economics, or a related field
• Experience supporting category strategies, supplier business reviews, and market trend analysis
• Demonstrated success driving cost‑reduction and process‑improvement initiatives
• Experience administering supplier scorecards and supporting continuous improvement programs
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to drive change and process improvements across global teams

All Koch companies value diversity of thought, perspectives, aptitudes, experiences, and backgrounds. We are Military Ready and Second Chance employers.

Learn more about our hiring philosophy here .

Who We Are

With a strong legacy of engineering excellence,Smiths Interconnect, a Molex company, is part of Molex’s Aerospace & Defense Solutions Division and represents the Signal Technologies business unit. Smiths Interconnect delivers mission‑critical connectivity solutions—including ruggedized connectors, cable assemblies, Fiber & RF, and high‑reliability technologies—designed to perform in the most demanding environments. From aerospace and defense to space, medical, and industrial applications, our innovative products enable reliability where it matters most. Join a passionate, global team helping shape the future of high‑reliability interconnect solutions.

At Koch, employees are empowered to do what they do best to make life better. Learn how our business philosophy helps employees unleash their potential while creating value for themselves and the company.