CNC Manufacturing Engineer - Precision Process Optimisation

Energy Jobline ZR; Hailsham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

25 days holiday

Salary sacrifice pension

Life insurance

State-of-the-art working environment

Job summary

VACGEN, a world‑leading manufacturer of ultra‑high vacuum technology, is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join the Operations Engineering team in the UK. You will lead CNC programming, fixture design, and process optimisation to boost productivity and quality across machining operations.

Ideal candidates have extensive aluminium and stainless steel machining experience, strong 5‑axis and multi‑axis capabilities, and a track record delivering high‑precision components in demanding

Qualifications

• Extensive experience machining aluminium and stainless steel components.
• Strong knowledge of multi-axis CNC machining, including 5-axis, 3+2 and multitasking machines.
• Experience with fixed-head CNC turning centres.
• Proven track record manufacturing complex, tightly toleranced components within sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, scientific or similar high‑precision industries.
• Ability to read, write and optimise NC G-Code programmes.
• Experience using 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, Siemens NX, Solid Edge or AutoCAD.
• Strong CAD/CAM experience within milling and turning environments.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Knowledge of Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings and engineering documentation.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Experience working in low‑volume or batch manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve manufacturing processes to enhance quality, productivity and operational efficiency.
• Design bespoke workholding solutions and fixtures using SolidWorks, including both 3D models and manufacturing drawings.
• Create, modify and optimise CNC programs using machine controls and CAD/CAM software.
• Prove‑out CNC programs and support the transition of new products into production.
• Produce job set‑up sheets, work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
• Manage tooling and fixture requirements across machining operations.
• Support make‑versus‑buy decisions through manufacturing and cost analysis.
• Identify and implement cost reduction, waste reduction and continuous improvement opportunities.
• Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing methods, tooling and process improvements.
• Support production teams with technical expertise, problem‑solving and process training.
• Create training materials and provide guidance to operators and technicians.
• Participate in operational improvement projects and best practice initiatives.

Skills

CNC Machining

5-Axis Machining

G-code Programming

SolidWorks

Process Improvement

Problem Solving

Education

HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering

Engineering Apprenticeship

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

Siemens NX

Job description

VACGEN, a world‑leading manufacturer of ultra‑high vacuum technology, is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join the Operations Engineering team in the UK. You will lead CNC programming, fixture design, and process optimisation to boost productivity and quality across machining operations.

Ideal candidates have extensive aluminium and stainless steel machining experience, strong 5‑axis and multi‑axis capabilities, and a track record delivering high‑precision components in demanding