CNC Machinist

Surrey Satellite Technology Limited; Hollywater; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace technology company is seeking a skilled CNC Machinist in Hollywater, England. The role involves programming, setting, and operating 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, producing high-precision components for spacecraft. Candidates should have a relevant Mechanical Engineering qualification and experience with high-value, low-volume machining. Benefits include a generous holiday package, a pension scheme, and a bonus program. Training on specific software will be provided.

Benefits

32 days holiday plus bank holidays

Pension scheme with life assurance

Private medical insurance

Annual bonus scheme

High street discount scheme

Qualifications

• Experience machining high-precision, high-value, low-volume components, ideally in aerospace.
• Knowledge of CNC off-line programming.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with Design Office and Composites Manufacturing team to deliver components on time.
• Manufacture high-precision composite components using CNC machines.
• Collaborate with engineers to meet specifications.

Skills

CNC machining

Problem-solving

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

City & Guilds Mechanical Engineering qualification

Recognised apprenticeship in machining

Tools

SolidWorks

Autodesk PowerMill

FeatureCam

Job description

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist to join our team. This role involves programming, setting, and operating 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, as well as manual machining. You will play a key role in the precision machining of composite and metallic structures and components, contributing to the production of innovative spacecraft systems and sub‑systems.

Key Tasks

• Liaise closely with the Design Office and the Composites Manufacturing team to deliver high‑quality components to tight deadlines for flight assembly and integration.
• Manufacture high‑precision composite (carbon and metallic) components using 3‑ and 5‑axis CNC milling machines.
• Perform CNC off‑line programming using Autodesk PowerMill and FeatureCam CAD/CAM software tools.
• Collaborate with Project Engineers and other Engineering Teams to ensure deadlines and specifications are achieved.
• Attend engineering peer reviews to ensure design‑for‑manufacture methodology is observed.
• Attend regular team meetings.
• Carry out manual machining operations when required.
• Complete other activities delegated by the Manufacturing Team Leader.

Qualifications

• City & Guilds Mechanical Engineering qualification or completion of a recognised apprenticeship with relevant certificates, preferably from a machining or similar background.
• Experience machining high‑precision, high‑value, low‑volume components, ideally in aerospace.
• Knowledge of CNC off‑line programming using SolidWorks, Autodesk PowerMill, and FeatureCam CAD/CAM software tools is preferred but not essential; training will be provided.

Knowledge & Skills

• Flexible, enthusiastic, with a can‑do approach.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities.
• Capability to work from engineering drawings and SolidWorks models to high standards and close tolerances; attention to detail is essential.
• Good communication skills within a small team.

About SSTL

Considered the pioneers of the small satellite market, SSTL has a heritage spanning over 40 years and prides itself on continual innovation and improvement of space technologies, products, and services. Since 1981, SSTL has built and launched over 70 satellites, including 7 constellations, and has 8+ further satellites and payloads under contract. From earliest study activities to subsystem manufacturing, assembly and test, and in‑orbit operations, SSTL manages the entire spacecraft lifecycle from its Guildford headquarters.

Benefits

• 32 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme with life assurance
• Private medical and international travel insurance
• Annual bonus scheme
• Share incentive plan
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental pay for new parents
• High street discount scheme and many more!