CNC Machinist Setter Operator / Conventional Machinist

Syntech Recruitment Ltd; Aylesbury; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Life assurance

Pension

Health cash plan

On-site parking

On-site electric charging points

Social events

Seasonal flu jabs

Job summary

Sterling Thermal Technology seeks a skilled CNC Programmer Setter Operator with manual machining experience to join our precision engineering team. You will program, set up and operate CNC machines, and perform manual milling/lathe work to produce high-quality components to tight tolerances.

You will work on the late shift (Mon-Wed 1.30pm-11.30pm, Thu 1.30pm-11.00pm) reporting to the Production Supervisor. The role requires at least 2 years in manufacturing, strong problem solving, and good

Qualifications

• Proven experience in CNC programming, setting and operating.
• Strong manual machining skills.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of geometric tolerancing and surface finishes.
• Familiarity with stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminium.

Responsibilities

• Program CNC machines using G-code or CAM software.
• Set up and operate CNC machine centre.
• Interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Select tooling, speeds and feeds for various materials.
• Perform first-off inspections and in-process quality checks.
• Adjust programs and offsets to maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Operate manual lathes and milling machines.
• Produce one-off or low-volume components.
• Deburr and finish machined parts to specification.

Skills

CNC programming

CNC setting

CNC operation

Manual machining

Engineering drawings

Geometric tolerancing

Tooling selection

Problem solving

Education

Apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Seimens

EdgeCAM

Fanuc controls

Job description

CNC Machinist Setter Operator / Conventional Machinist PM Shift

The Sterling Thermal Technology team is fast-growing and ambitious, working together to partner and to pioneer at the forefront of our industry. What we create together matters.

The role

We are looking for a skilled and versatile CNC Programmer Setter Operator with manual machining experience to join our precision engineering team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for programming, setting, and operating CNC machines, as well as performing manual machining tasks (mills and/or lathes) to produce high-quality metal components to tight tolerances.

Who you will interact with

• You will be part of the Production team, reporting to PM Production Supervisor.

• You will be fully supported by other team members.

You must have worked for a minimum of 2 years within a manufacturing industry.

Your normal hours of work will be 37½ per week on our ‘late’ shift, i.e. Monday to Wednesday 1.30pm to 11.30pm. Thursday 1.30pm to 11.00pm.

Essential attributes to succeed:

• Self-motivated and able to work independently.

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities.

• Good communication and teamwork skills.

Duties:

CNC Duties:

• Program CNC machines using G-code or CAM software (e.g., Seimens, EdgeCAM, or similar).

• Set up and operate CNC machine centre.

• Interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.

• Select appropriate tooling, speeds, and feeds for various materials.

• Perform first-off inspections and in-process quality checks.

• Adjust programs and offsets to maintain dimensional accuracy.

Manual Machining Duties:

• Operate manual lathes, milling machines, and drills.

• Produce one-off or low-volume components as required.

• Deburr and finish machined parts to specification.

General:

• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.

• Complete job cards and production records accurately.

• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to resolve issues.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

Essential:

• Proven experience in CNC programming, setting, and operating.

• Strong manual machining skills.

• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings.

• Good understanding of geometric tolerancing and surface finishes.

• Familiarity with a range of metals including stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminium.

• Strong attention to detail and quality.

Desirable:

• Experience with Fanuc, Siemens, or EdgeCAM controls.

• Apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.

• Experience in a low-volume, high-precision manufacturing environment.

Key Results Area

• Maintaining a high level of quality consistently and work output.

• Efficient and timely completion of all production activities.

How we'll support you

The training and development needs of this position will be determined in consultation with the Team Leader.

Benefits Package

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays

• Life assurance

• Pension

• Health cash plan

• On-site parking

• On-site electric charging points

• Social events

• Seasonal flu jabs