CNC Operator (Cell 1, First Shift) - 2240

Thorlabs; Ely; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributed Pension Scheme

Group Life Cover

Private Health Care

Group Income Protection

Free onsite parking

Job summary

Thorlabs in Ely, UK is seeking a hands-on CNC Machine Operator to join the Tables production team, running Milltronics XYZ, Haas VF6SS, Hartford Blockbuster PRO3150 and Hartford Sword SW523 machines.

You will process sheet materials, follow SOPs, and maintain high attention to detail while contributing to quality and on-time targets. The role offers development through on-the-job training and a structured interview process.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating CNC machinery preferred (Fanuc beneficial).
• Ability to interpret and follow Standard Operating Procedures.
• High mechanical aptitude with practical skills and attention to detail.
• Hands-on approach with good teamwork and communication.

Responsibilities

• Operate drilling/tapping and CNC machines to process sheet materials.
• Maintain high levels of attention to detail and record precise measurements.
• Communicate product status accurately in the production system and paperwork.
• Support and participate in workplace programs and cross-training within Tables.
• Identify and resolve quality issues promptly and collaboratively.

Skills

CNC operation

Fanuc experience

SOP literacy

Quality focus

Tools

Milltronics XYZ

Haas VF6SS

Hartford PRO3150

Hartford Sword SW523

Job description

What is the job?

As a CNC Machine Operator you will be very much ‘hands on’ in this physical role, working as part of the production team, expressing a can-do attitude and eye for quality. Your core responsibility will be to run our Milltronics XYZ, Haas VF6SS, Hartford Blockbuster PRO3150 and (incoming) Hartford Sword SW523 drilling machines (full training will be provided), processing sheet materials, as part of the Optical Tables Business Unit.

Working Hours

Monday to Thursday 6am to 2:30pm and Fridays 6am to 1pm

Department

Tables

Interview process

2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 30-minute Teams interview; Second stage: Onsite 1 hour interview

Who we are?

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working?

Ourpurpose-built facility isjust 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us…

• Experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Operating Fanuc CNC machinery would be desirable; however, any CNC experience would be useful but not essential
• Ability to interpret and follow Standard Operating Procedures
• High level of mechanical aptitude and practical skill is desired
• A practical ‘hands on’ approach
• High level of attention to detail and the ability to maintain focus
• Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly
• Proven ability to work in a team environment
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Adhering to core values
• Positive contribution to multi-departmental initiatives

What we would like you to do/ to see…

• Work within an allocated team to achieve scheduled manufacturing targets
• You will be trained and developed to operate our drilling/tapping machines
• Maintain high levels of attention to detail at all times, recording and communicating accurate technical measurements and readings
• Communicate product status accurately via the production control system and associated paperwork
• Support Team Leaders in the development and implementation of workplace programs
• Participate in cross-training to increase knowledge and experience of the Tables Business Unit
• Support and drive problem solving and quality/performance improvement

What will you get?

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

And the benefits are?

Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference:

THOR-VC-2240

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

*This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.

All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

• Contributed Pension Scheme
• Group Life Cover
• Private Health Care
• Group Income Protection & more.

We are Disability Confident Committed

In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.