CNC Operator

Cooper Lomaz; Sudbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK manufacturing company is looking for a CNC Operator Programmer to set up, program, and operate CNC machining centres for aluminium components. This role involves ensuring adherence to technical drawings and quality standards while contributing to process improvements. Candidates should have experience in aluminium fabrication, strong technical competencies, and effective communication skills. The position offers a shift pattern of 6am to 2pm, Monday to Friday, with a competitive salary based on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in CNC operation/programming in aluminium fabrication or similar.
• Strong understanding of machining processes and multi-axis operations.
• Ability to work independently and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Program and operate CNC machining centres for precise fabrication.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and troubleshoot errors.
• Monitor machine performance and implement efficiency improvements.

Skills

CNC programming

Aluminium extrusion machining

Technical drawing interpretation

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Tools

FOM Industrie software

Measurement tools

Job description

CNC operator programmer

To program, set, and operate CNC machining centres for the fabrication of aluminium window, door and curtain walling components. The role ensures accurate, efficient, and timely production aligned with technical drawings, fabrication manuals, and system supplier specifications. The CNC Operator/Programmer will also contribute to process improvement, tooling optimisation, and quality assurance across the machining function.

Key Responsibilities

• CNC Programming & Operation: Create, modify, and optimise CNC programs for aluminium profiles using machine-specific software, specifically FOM Industrie.
• Set up CNC machining centres, including tool loading, calibration, and fixture selection.
• Execute machining operations including milling, drilling, routing, tapping, slotting, and notching.
• Review production drawings, matrices, and machining lists from system suppliers (Alunet, Reynaers).
• Ensure correct machining paths in accordance with fabrication manuals and project specifications.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Perform first-off inspections and dimensional verification using gauges and verniers.
• Maintain compliance with relevant industry/company standards and fabrication tolerances.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and correct programming or machining errors.
• Ensure components meet internal QA procedures and downstream fabrication requirements.

Process & Efficiency Management

• Monitor machine performance and implement continuous improvement activities to reduce waste and downtime.
• Assist with tool selection, maintenance, and replacement scheduling to ensure optimal performance.
• Maintain accurate records of programs, setups, machine logs, and production outputs.

Machine Maintenance

• Conduct routine cleaning, lubrication, and pre-planned maintenance tasks.
• Report equipment faults promptly and collaborate with maintenance teams to minimise downtime.
• Ensure safe working practices consistent with company safety standards.

Required Skills & Experience

Technical Competencies

• Proven experience operating and programming CNC routing/machining centres within the aluminium fabrication sector (preferred) or similar precision metalworking environments.
• Strong understanding of aluminium extrusion machining, including multi-axis operations.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, fabrication schedules.
• Competency with relevant machine software.
• Familiarity with fabrication systems used in windows, doors, and curtain walling.

Operational Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Comfortable working with measurement tools and performing precision checks.
• Ability to work independently and prioritise workloads in a fast-paced production environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, particularly with fabrication, design, and planning teams.

Shift pattern: 6am to 2pm, Mon to Fri

Salary: Dependant on experience.