CNC Programmer / Setter / Operator

Marton Recruitment Ltd; Ashford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Marton Recruitment Ltd is assisting an established precision engineering company in the Ashford area to recruit an experienced CNC Programmer/Setter/Operator. The role focuses on programming, setting and operating CNC milling machines, with opportunities to develop 5-axis skills.

You will work from technical drawings, optimise machining processes, and collaborate with the engineering team to maintain quality standards while pursuing continuous improvements.

Qualifications

• Experience in CNC milling, programming and setting.
• 5-axis machining experience preferred.
• Experience with offline CAD/CAM programming advantageous.
• Ability to read engineering drawings.
• Understanding of tooling and precision tolerances.
• Ability to work independently.
• Interest in progressing into 5-axis work.

Responsibilities

• Programming, setting and operating CNC milling machines.
• Producing precision-engineered components from technical drawings.
• Creating and modifying CNC programmes, ideally using offline CAD/CAM software.
• Setting tools, selecting appropriate cutting methods and optimising machining processes.
• Carrying out first-off inspections and ensuring components meet required tolerances.
• Troubleshooting machining issues and making adjustments where necessary.
• Working closely with the wider engineering team to maintain quality and production standards.
• Supporting continuous improvements in machining efficiency and processes.

Skills

CNC milling

Programming

Offline CAD/CAM

5-axis machining

Reading drawings

Tooling know-how

Precision tolerances

Independent work

Troubleshooting

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Job description

We are working with an established precision engineering company in the Ashford area that is looking for an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter / Operator to join its team.

Ideally, we're looking for someone with 5-axis milling experience who is confident with offline programming. However, we'd also be interested in hearing from experienced 3-axis or 4-axis CNC programmers who have a strong background in precision engineering and are keen to develop their 5-axis skills.

This could be a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on machining, takes pride in producing high-quality components and wants to continue developing their technical abilities.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Programming, setting and operating CNC milling machines.
• Producing precision-engineered components from technical drawings.
• Creating and modifying CNC programmes, ideally using offline CAD/CAM software.
• Setting tools, selecting appropriate cutting methods and optimising machining processes.
• Carrying out first-off inspections and ensuring components meet required tolerances.
• Troubleshooting machining issues and making adjustments where necessary.
• Working closely with the wider engineering team to maintain quality and production standards.
• Supporting continuous improvements in machining efficiency and processes.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience in CNC milling, programming and setting.
• Ideally, experience with 5-axis machining, although strong 3-axis or 4-axis programmers will also be considered.
• Experience with offline CAD/CAM programming would be a significant advantage.
• Confidence reading and interpreting engineering drawings.
• A good understanding of tooling, machining methods and precision tolerances.
• The ability to work independently and take ownership of machining tasks.
• A practical, problem-solving approach and a genuine interest in engineering.

You don't necessarily need to tick every box. If you're an experienced CNC Miller or Programmer with strong technical skills and an interest in progressing into more complex 5-axis work, we'd still be keen to hear from you.

What’s on Offer?

• Salary of £40,000-£45,000, depending on experience.
• Permanent opportunity with an established engineering business.
• The chance to work on precision-engineered components.
• Opportunity to develop and expand your 5-axis machining skills.
• A supportive, hands-on engineering environment.