CNC Operator

Thorlabs; Ely; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading optical technologies company in Ely is looking for a CNC Machine Operator to join their production team. This role involves operating CNC machines, focusing on quality and efficiency. You will receive training and work in a team environment, ensuring high standards in production. The position offers opportunities for development and comes with a competitive salary, an excellent benefits package, and on-site amenities like free refreshments and parking.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

Private health care

Free parking

Free refreshments

Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing environment is essential.
• Operating Fanuc CNC machinery is desirable but not mandatory.
• High level of mechanical aptitude and practical skills is desired.

Responsibilities

• Run Milltronics XYZ, Haas VF6SS, and Hartford drilling machines.
• Maintain quality and efficiency in manufacturing.
• Participate in cross-training within the Tables Business Unit.

Skills

Experience in a manufacturing environment

CNC operation experience

Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Problem-solving ability

Teamwork

Communication skills

Tools

Fanuc CNC machinery

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 of 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?

Our purpose‑built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful medieval 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 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.

Job Reference

THOR-VC-1731

This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail [e-mail].

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.