CNC Operator (First Shift) - 2081

Vytran LLC; Ely; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributed Pension Scheme

Group Life Cover

Private Health Care

Group Income Protection & more

Job summary

Thorlabs in Ely, UK, is recruiting a CNC Operator to support the Machine Shop in producing precision components. You will operate the Matsuura MAM72 milling centre and other CNC machines to meet production demands.

Essentially, you will ensure micron-level accuracy, read engineering drawings, and work within a team to drive efficiency and quality. The role offers training, pension perks, and a pathway for career development within manufacturing engineering.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Machine Shop environment.
• Working knowledge of Fanuc based vertical milling machining centres.
• Experience with micron level precision.
• Machine loading and operation experience.
• Basic understanding of engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of 5-axis milling and Wire EDM desirable.
• Knowledge of multi-pallet, high mix, low volume machining centres desirable.

Responsibilities

• Predominantly load and run multi-pallet, 5-axis milling centres to produce precision components.
• Load and operate CNC machines to support Machine Shop operations (3- or 5-axis centres, multi-pallets, Wire EDM).
• Ensure machines are scheduled and loaded to meet Kanban demand.
• Unload and process components (debur, ultrasonic cleaning, stress relieving, rumbling, vapour honing).
• Assist CNC Programmers to prove out and produce first-off production and prototype components.
• Ensure components meet quality requirements with accurate measurements using inspection tools.
• Maintain high attention to detail; perform weekly maintenance and 5S tasks.
• Follow safe working practices and environmental requirements; support process improvements.

Skills

Micron precision

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Problem solving

Tools

Fanuc milling centres

5-axis milling

Wire EDM

Multi-pallet machining

Job description

What is the job?

As CNC Operator, you will support the Machine Shop operation to provide precision machined components for production use. You will be required to operate the Matsuura MAM72 milling centre.

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

Department: Manufacturing Engineering

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 1 hour Teams interview; Second stage: Onsite 3-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…

• Apprenticeship trained or similar experience considered
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Machine Shop environment
• A working knowledge of Fanuc based vertical milling machining centres
• Experience working with micron level precision
• Machine loading and operation experience
• Basic understanding of engineering drawings
• Knowledge of 5-axis milling and Wire EDM desirable but not essential
• Knowledge of multi-pallet, high mix, low volume machining centres desirable but not essential
• Must have a good attention to detail and ability to multitask
• Ability to work in a team as well as independently
• Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly
• Adhering to core values and driven positive attitude

What we would like you to do/ to see…

• To predominantly load and run multi-pallet, 5-axis milling centre(s) to produce precision in-house machined components for production use
• When required, load and operate a variety of CNC machines to support the Machine Shop operation, including but not limited to 3 or 5-axis milling centres, multi-pallet milling centres and Wire EDM
• Ensure the CNC machines are scheduled and loaded to meet Kanban demand
• Unload and process components where required, including but not limited to deburring, ultrasonic cleaning, stress relieving, rumbling and vapour honing
• Assist the CNC Programmers to prove out and produce first-off production and prototype components
• Ensure quality of components produced meets requirements by taking accurate measurements, utilising the most appropriate inspection tools
• Maintaining high levels of attention to detail at all times
• Perform weekly machine maintenance and 5S tasks
• Ensure that all machining activities are carried out in accordance with the company’s safe working practices and environmental requirements
• Support the team with process improvement initiatives for the various CNC machines and areas of responsibility

What will you get?

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for in-house 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.

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

Job Reference: THOR-VC-2081

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

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.

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.