CNC Programmer: 5‑Axis Composite Machining Expert

McLaren Racing; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday

Enhanced pension scheme

Private medical insurance

Discretionary annual bonus

Job summary

McLaren Racing is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer at our Composite Technology Centre in the UK. You will convert CAD models into machine-ready toolpaths, optimise toolpaths for cycle time and tool life, and ensure quality and dimensional accuracy across multi-axis CNC operations.

The role requires proficiency in CAD/CAM, experience with Mastercam/PowerMill, and strong knowledge of composites. You will document, validate, and support first-off manufacture while driving standardisation of

Qualifications

• Proven experience creating and optimising CNC programs in a production machining environment.
• High proficiency with CAD/CAM packages; Mastercam and PowerMill advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of multi-axis CNC machining, including 5-axis equipment.
• Experience programming CNC machining of composite materials.
• Ability to interpret drawings, tolerances, datum structures, and surface finishes.
• Experience using VERICUT or similar simulation tools to ensure safe, collision-free programs.
• Understanding of cutting tools, tool holding, offsets, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies.
• Experience with post-processors and CNC machine controls; strong data management skills.

Responsibilities

• Create, edit, and optimise CNC programs and multi-axis toolpaths using approved CAD/CAM software.
• Interpret engineering drawings and CAD models to define machining strategies and tolerances.
• Select cutting tools, holders, work offsets, probing routines, and safe machining sequences.
• Post-process, simulate, and verify programs to identify collisions and over-travel.
• Support prove-out and first-off manufacture; revise programs to meet requirements.
• Optimise toolpaths, feeds, speeds, and sequences to improve cycle time and tool life.
• Create and maintain controlled programming documentation and revision records.
• Troubleshoot program and toolpath issues and implement robust corrections.

Skills

CNC programming

CAD/CAM software

5-axis machining

Composite materials

VERICUT simulation

G-code/M-code

Toolpath optimisation

Documentation management

Tools

Mastercam

PowerMill

VERICUT

Job description

McLaren Racing is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer at our Composite Technology Centre in the UK. You will convert CAD models into machine-ready toolpaths, optimise toolpaths for cycle time and tool life, and ensure quality and dimensional accuracy across multi-axis CNC operations.

The role requires proficiency in CAD/CAM, experience with Mastercam/PowerMill, and strong knowledge of composites. You will document, validate, and support first-off manufacture while driving standardisation of