CNC Programmer

Alexandrite Recruitment; Greater London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace precision engineering firm is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to join their team. This role involves programming, setting up, and operating 5-axis Matsuura milling machines, focusing on the high-precision production of aerospace-grade components. Candidates should have a strong background in CNC machining and be adept at interpreting engineering drawings. Competitive salary package and benefits include healthcare contributions and flexible working hours.

Benefits

Healthcare contribution scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

23 days holiday plus bank holidays

Family-friendly working hours

Life assurance

On-site parking

Discounts and employee benefits scheme

Qualifications

• Experience programming, setting and operating 5-axis CNC milling machines.
• Skilled in machining aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, or exotic alloys.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, machining strategies, and optimization.

Responsibilities

• Program, set, and operate 5-axis Matsuura MAM72 machining centres.
• Create, adjust, and optimise CNC programs.
• Conduct first-off inspections and collaborate with teams.

Skills

5-axis CNC programming

Precision machining

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Education

Apprenticeship or formal qualification in CNC machining

Tools

Matsuura MAM72-35V

Matsuura MAM72-52V

Job description

CNC Programmer (5 Axis)

Romford

Full time, permanent

Salary : £35,000

£48,000 per annum (depending on 5‑axis experience, programming capability, and aerospace background)

About the Client

Our client is a leading aerospace precision engineering organisation specialising in the manufacture of complex, tight‑tolerance components for global aerospace and defence applications. Operating advanced multi‑axis machining centres, high‑specification fabrication facilities and a rigorous AS9100‑accredited quality environment, the client is known for producing safety‑critical components across aluminium, stainless steel, titanium and exotic materials.

Their investment in cutting‑edge technology including fully automated 5‑axis Matsuura machining cells supports a culture of continuous improvement, engineering excellence, and innovation in manufacturing.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced CNC Milling Machinist / Programmer / Setter / Operator with strong proficiency in 5‑axis machining using Matsuura MAM72‑35V or MAM72‑52V platforms. This is a hands‑on role involving CNC programming, machine setup, optimisation of machining strategies, and high‑precision production of aerospace‑grade components to strict quality standards.

The successful candidate will be responsible for producing components efficiently, accurately and reliably in accordance with technical drawings, customer specifications, and the company’s quality management system.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, set and operate 5‑axis Matsuura MAM72‑35V / MAM72‑52V machining centres.
• Create, adjust and optimise CNC programs to improve machining efficiency, cycle time and surface finish.
• Select appropriate tooling, work‑holding, speeds and feeds for aerospace‑grade materials.
• Conduct first‑off inspection and support the generation of FAIR documentation where required.
• Work collaboratively with engineering, production and quality teams to resolve technical issues.
• Ensure machines are maintained to optimal performance levels, carrying out basic TPM and reporting issues promptly.
• Interpret engineering drawings, 3D models and manufacturing documentation accurately.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across machining processes.
• Assist in NPI machining trials and prove‑out activities for new components.

Experience

• Proven experience programming, setting and operating 5‑axis CNC milling machines, preferably Matsuura MAM72 series.
• Experience producing high‑precision components for aerospace, defence or other performance‑critical sectors.
• Skilled in machining aluminium, stainless steel, titanium or exotic alloys.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, machining strategies, work holding and optimisation.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, 3D CAD data and manufacturing specifications.
• Experience performing first‑off inspections using metrology tools (CMM experience beneficial).

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship or formal qualification in CNC machining, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or similar.
• CAD / CAM programming training is desirable.
• Strong understanding of machining principles, GD&T and aerospace quality requirements.

Personal Characteristics

• High level of attention to detail and pride in producing precision work.
• Proactive problem solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong communication skills across production, engineering and quality.

Benefits

• Healthcare contribution scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• 23 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing after 5 years)
• Family‑friendly working hours (flexibility available + early Friday finish)
• Life assurance (4 salary)
• On‑site parking
• Discounts and employee benefits scheme