CNC Setter and Operator

Trades Workforce Solutions; Rochford; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company in England is looking for an experienced CNC Setter and Operator. The ideal candidate will have a background in aerospace engineering, with at least 2 years of experience in running and setting CNC machines. Responsibilities include ensuring machine efficiency, maintaining quality standards, and adhering to health and safety regulations. The position offers a salary of £35,000 along with 16 days holiday, a pension plan, and other benefits.

Benefits

16 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays

Pension plan

Health cash plan

Life assurance

EAP and shopping discounts

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in aerospace engineering.
• Experience with first and second-operation machining tools.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Set and run CNC machines safely.
• Conduct first-off and job-run inspections.
• Maintain machine efficiency to meet KPIs.

Skills

Aerospace engineering background

Experience running CNC machines

Proficiency with Fanuc and Seiki controls

Strong measurement skills

Effective communication skills

Job description

CNC Setter and Operator

We have an excellent opportunity for a CNC Setter and Operator. Reporting into the Production Manager, the candidate must have experience in the aerospace engineering sector and a proven background working with high‑tolerance parts. They will program, set, and run various first‑operation machine tools, including CNC machines with sliding and fixed‑head configurations and milling. The role requires strict adherence to health and safety legislation, coordination of all programming and setting activities to deliver satisfactory first‑off, and continual review of current product ranges to improve manufacturing efficiency. The successful applicant will endeavour to reduce waste and improve productivity, embracing a zero‑defect philosophy through increased effectiveness and efficiency wherever possible.

Purpose of Role

• Set and run first‑operation machinery safely – CNC machines including fixed head, sliding head, lathes, turning mills, and bar feeders (Dooson, Hardinge, Mori, Star).
• Support and set/run second‑operation machinery safely – thread rollers, grinding, part markers, drill banks, depitching presses, torque testers, and deburrers (manual/rotary etc.).
• Work confidently with materials such as aluminium, stainless steels and Inconel.
• Coordinate all programming and setting activities with other existing setters.
• Conduct first‑off and job‑run inspections of second‑operation machine parts.
• Adhere to all documented health and safety procedures, using correct PPE.
• Ensure accurate production records and movement log on the company's computerized system (EFACS).
• Perform first‑off buddy checks and inspections of both first and second‑operation machine parts.
• Report scrap/rework and propose efficiencies to the Production Manager.
• Maintain machine efficiency to meet on‑time deliveries, arrears, parts per hour (PPH), and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Manufacture quality products following agreed standards and quality procedures.
• Complete daily maintenance check sheets and cycle timesheets.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment at all times.
• Willing to train junior operators to develop their skills when necessary.

Core Skills/Attributes Needed

• Aerospace engineering background, minimum 2 years’ experience.
• Experience running, setting first and second‑operation machining tools with some programming knowledge.
• Experience with bar‑feed machines.
• Proficiency with Fanuc and Seiki controls.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong measurement skills using varied tooling.
• Solid knowledge of frontline maintenance activities and practical ability to undertake tasks.
• Close coordination with the Production Manager and setters to recommend and improve efficiency.
• Team‑player with effective communication skills to support company policies and goals.
• Attention to detail, numeracy, and commitment to quality performance.
• Flexible and proactive attitude.
• Service‑mindful and continuously enhancing product/service knowledge.
• Achieve team objectives and contribute to departmental KPIs while supporting broader business goals.

Additional Information

• 16 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays.
• Working hours Monday to Thursday 06:45–16:30; 37‑hour week (15‑minute paid break and 30‑minute unpaid lunch break).
• Employee benefits include pension plan, health cash plan, life assurance, EAP and shopping discounts.
• Salary £35,000 depending on experience.