Cnc Miller Programmer - Heidenhain

Workforce Recruitment and Training; Halifax; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Workforce Recruitment and Training is seeking an experienced Milling Programmer/Setter/Operator to join a precision machining team. You will program, set up, and run 3- and 4-axis vertical milling machines with Heidenhain controls to produce high-precision components.

The role involves working with exotic materials like Inconel and Nitronic, ensuring tight tolerances and excellent surface finishes while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Experience as CNC Milling Programmer/Setter/Operator.
• Proficient with Heidenhain controls.
• Experience machining Inconel, Nitronic and other hard-to-machine alloys.
• Ability to set up fixtures and select tooling.

Responsibilities

• Program CNC milling jobs at the machine using Heidenhain controls.
• Set up and operate vertical milling machines.
• Load, prove, edit and optimise CNC programs.
• Set up fixtures, vices and tooling.
• Inspect first-off and in-process to ensure quality.
• Maintain tight tolerances and high surface finish.

Skills

CNC Milling

Heidenhain controls

Programming at the machine

Inconel/Nitronic machining

Fixture setup

Precision measurement

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Job description

Hourly Rate

£17.50 - £19.80 (Experience Dependent)

Employment Type

Full-time

Shift Pattern

Day Shift – 38 hours per week

Working Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 7:00am – 3:30pm

Job Description

My client is seeking an experienced Milling Programmer / Setter / Operator to join their precision machining team. This role is ideal for a skilled CNC machinist with hands‑on experience programming, setting, and operating 3 and 4 Axis vertical milling machines using Heidenhain controls.

You will be machining high‑precision components from a variety of materials, including exotic and hard‑to‑machine alloys such as Inconel and Nitronic, to exacting quality and tolerance standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Program new CNC milling jobs directly at the machine using Heidenhain controls
• Set up and operate vertical milling machines
• Load, prove, edit, and optimise CNC programs
• Accurately set up and load fixtures, vices, and tooling
• Machine components from materials including Inconel, Nitronic, stainless steels, and other high‑spec alloys
• Interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
• Select appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and cutting strategies for exotic materials
• Carry out first-off and in-process inspection to ensure quality compliance
• Maintain tight tolerances and high surface finish standards
• Identify and resolve machining, tooling, and process issues
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment
• Comply with all company health, safety, and quality procedures

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience as a CNC Milling Programmer / Setter / Operator
• Strong working knowledge of Heidenhain CNC control systems
• Ability to program directly at the machine
• Experience machining exotic or hard‑to‑machine materials (e.g., Inconel, Nitronic)
• Confident in fixture setup, tooling selection, and work offset setting
• Strong understanding of cutting tools and advanced machining practices
• Ability to work accurately to tight tolerances
• Self‑motivated with excellent attention to detail
• Able to work independently and collaboratively within a team

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience with one‑off, prototype, or small batch production
• Background in precision or high‑integrity industries (aerospace, oil & gas, medical, motorsport)
• Knowledge of continuous improvement or lean manufacturing techniques
• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• Stable day shift working pattern (38 hours per week)
• Early finish on Fridays
• Modern, well‑equipped machining environment
• 32 days of annual leave, including:
• 144 hours (19 days) flexible leave to use as you wish
• Long‑term career opportunity within a respected precision engineering company