CNC Programmer Setter Operator

CNC Recruitment South West Ltd; Martock; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

CNC Recruitment is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter Operator for a precision machine shop in Martock, Somerset. You will program, set and operate CNC milling and turning machines, taking jobs from drawings through to completed parts.

This demanding role requires attention to detail and strong quality standards. You will work in a tight tolerance, AS9100-style environment with responsibility for in-process inspection and production reporting.

Qualifications

• Proven CNC programming experience essential.
• Ability to program, set and operate CNC milling and/or turning machines.
• Strong reading and interpretation of engineering drawings and GD&T.

Responsibilities

• Program, set and operate CNC milling and/or turning machines, including 3-axis and above.
• Create, modify and prove CNC programs as required.
• Produce components from drawings and specifications to tight tolerances.

Skills

CNC programming

CNC setting

CNC turning

GD&T reading

Inspection experience

Tools

Mastercam

Edgecam

CMM

Job description

CNC Recruitment is currently recruiting for an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter Operator to join a precision machine shop in Martock, Somerset. This is a hands‑on opportunity for an experienced CNC professional who can program, set and operate CNC milling and/or turning machines to produce high‑quality components to tight tolerances.

Location: Martock, Somerset on‑site Contract: Permanent, full‑time Pay: £17.00 £22.00 per hour, depending on experience Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am 4:30pm (flexible)

The Role:

Our client operates a specialist CNC machine shop producing high‑precision, low‑volume components to tight tolerances and demanding quality standards. We are looking for an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter Operator who can confidently program, set and operate CNC milling and/or turning machines. Programming ability is essential for this position. The successful candidate will be expected to take jobs from engineering drawings through programming, setting and machining, ensuring components are produced accurately and efficiently to the required specification. This is a technically demanding environment where quality, consistency, precision and attention to detail are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program, set and operate CNC milling and/or turning machines, including 3‑axis and above equipment.
• Create, modify and prove CNC programmes as required.
• Produce components accurately from engineering drawings and specifications.
• Work to tight tolerances and demanding quality standards within an AS9100 environment.
• Carry out in‑process inspection using standard metrology equipment, including verniers, micrometers and CMM where appropriate.
• Complete accurate job card and production reporting.
• Identify and report tooling wear, machine faults and non‑conformances promptly.
• Select appropriate tooling, cutting conditions and machining strategies.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping and contribute to 5S activities.
• Follow FOD (Foreign Object Damage) prevention procedures.
• Liaise with the Works Manager and Quality team regarding first‑off approvals and concession requests.
• Identify opportunities for machining and process improvements.
• Maintain a safe, organised and professional working environment.

What We Are Looking For:

• The successful candidate must have proven CNC programming experience alongside strong setting and operating skills.
• You will ideally have:
  • Demonstrable experience programming, setting and operating CNC milling or turning centres.
  • Strong knowledge of Fanuc, Heidenhain or equivalent CNC controls.
  • The ability to create, edit and optimise CNC programmes.
  • The ability to confidently read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T notation.
  • Experience working to tight tolerances and high‑quality standards.
  • Previous experience within an aerospace, defence or similarly regulated manufacturing environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience with in‑process inspection and quality documentation.
  • Experience with CAM programming such as Mastercam, Edgecam or similar would be advantageous.
  • A reliable, methodical and practical approach to work.
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing work right first time.
  • The ability to work independently and take ownership of the complete machining process.
• Ideally, candidates will be based within approximately 30 minutes of Martock Trading Estate.
• Programming experience is essential This is not a setter/operator-only position. Candidates must be able to demonstrate genuine CNC programming experience and be confident programming and modifying jobs as part of their day‑to‑day role.