CNC Planner

Workforce Recruitment; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Blackburn is seeking a Machining Process Planner for their advanced engineering division. This role involves developing machining plans and ensuring alignment with aerospace standards and quality requirements. Candidates should have experience in CNC machining or manufacturing engineering. The position offers genuine career progression opportunities and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology in a collaborative culture.

Benefits

Structured training and development programmes

Career progression opportunities

Collaborative and innovative culture

Qualifications

• Experienced in CNC machining, process planning, or manufacturing engineering within aerospace or high-precision environments.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling principles, and GD&T.
• Familiarity with AS9100 and NADCAP requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed machining process plans from engineering drawings, CAD data, and 3D models.
• Work alongside CNC programmers to align machining strategies with production capabilities.
• Identify and document material requirements, including aerospace-grade metals and composites.

Skills

CNC machining

Manufacturing engineering

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Continuous learning

Job description

The Company

Our client is a prestigious global aerospace manufacturer recognised for engineering excellence, advanced technology, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Operating at the forefront of precision manufacturing, the business produces complex, safety‑critical components for some of the world’s leading aerospace programmes. Joining their team means becoming part of an organisation that invests in its people, promotes from within, and provides genuine opportunities for professional development and long‑term career progression.

The Role

We are seeking a Machining Process Planner to join the company’s advanced engineering division. This is a key technical position, responsible for developing comprehensive machining plans and routing documentation for complex aerospace components. Working closely with CNC programmers, production engineers, and quality teams, you will ensure that every stage of the manufacturing process is clearly defined, achievable, and aligned with aerospace standards and engineering intent. It’s an ideal role for someone with a strong background in CNC machining or manufacturing engineering who wants to progress into a more technical planning and process‑focused career within a world‑class aerospace environment.

Key Responsibilities

Machining Process Planning

• Develop detailed machining process plans from engineering drawings, CAD data, and 3D models.
• Define operations such as drilling, reaming, boring, and tapping to achieve precise hole tolerances and surface finishes.
• Enter and maintain routing data within the MRP system, ensuring clarity and traceability throughout the manufacturing process.
• Incorporate supplier specifications and design standards to ensure compliance with engineering and customer requirements.

Collaboration with CNC Programming

• Work alongside CNC programmers to align machining strategies with production capabilities and efficiency goals.
• Provide recommendations on tooling, fixturing, and machine setup to ensure repeatable accuracy and process reliability.
• Review CNC programs and validate that machining operations meet specified tolerances and quality standards.

Material Specification and Control

• Identify and document material requirements, including aerospace‑grade metals and composites (e.g. titanium, aluminium alloys, stainless steel).
• Verify all materials meet certification, traceability, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with procurement and stores to ensure materials are available and controlled within specification.

Technical Documentation and Compliance

• Develop and maintain setup sheets, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Ensure all documentation meets AS9100, NADCAP, and customer‑specific quality standards.
• Support First Article Inspections (FAI) and ensure all planning data is accurate, auditable, and compliant.

Quality and Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to define inspection criteria for critical features and tolerances.
• Support investigations into dimensional non‑conformances and assist with root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance accuracy, reduce cycle time, and improve efficiency.
• Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews and feed back insights to engineering teams.

Candidate Profile

• Experienced in CNC machining, process planning, or manufacturing engineering within aerospace or high‑precision environments.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling principles, and GD&T.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and 3D CAD models.
• Familiarity with AS9100 and NADCAP requirements.
• Experience using MRP or ERP systems to plan and document production processes.
• Strong communication, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Positive, proactive, and detail‑driven, with a passion for continuous learning and professional development.

Why Join

• Be part of a world‑class aerospace organisation trusted by global OEMs.
• Work with cutting‑edge technology and precision manufacturing techniques.
• Genuine career progression opportunities across engineering, quality, and technical leadership pathways.
• Structured training and development programmes designed to grow your skills and confidence.
• A collaborative, forward‑thinking culture where innovation and excellence are celebrated.