CNC Sliding Head Programme Operator

ISQ Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A precision engineering firm in Cambridgeshire seeks a CNC Sliding Head Lathe Programmer/Operator. In this full-time role, you will program and operate CNC lathes to produce high-accuracy components. Ideal candidates will have at least 3 years of experience with Sliding Head lathes and be confident with Fanuc controls. Join a growing business focused on quality and teamwork with opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Modern, well-equipped machine shop

Long-term career progression

Varied workload across production and R&D components

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience on Sliding Head lathes in a manufacturing environment.
• Confident with Fanuc controls and familiar with micron-level precision.
• Able to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.

Responsibilities

• Program, set, and operate CNC Sliding Head lathes to produce precision components.
• Create or edit programs using CAD/CAM software or directly at the machine console.
• Carry out accurate inspection and quality checks using appropriate measuring tools.

Skills

CNC machining

Fanuc controls

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

Apprentice-trained or equivalent

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Measuring tools

Job description

Overview

CNC Sliding Head Lathe Programmer/Operator – Sector: Engineering / Manufacturing
Location: Cambridgeshire
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Hours: Monday to Friday Days
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

We’re recruiting for a CNC Sliding Head Lathe Programmer / Operator to join a precision engineering team producing high-accuracy components for both production and R&D use.

This is a hands-on role where you’ll be responsible for programming, setting, and operating Sliding Head lathes (Fanuc controls), working to tight tolerances and consistently high quality standards.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Program, set, and operate CNC Sliding Head lathes to produce precision components
• Create or edit programs using CAD/CAM software or directly at the machine console
• Interpret engineering drawings and apply appropriate machining strategies
• Optimise existing programs, troubleshoot issues, and minimise downtime
• Carry out accurate inspection and quality checks using appropriate measuring tools
• Support process improvement and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) routines
• Maintain safe working practices and high standards of housekeeping (5S)
• Assist with training and knowledge sharing within the machine shop

What You’ll Bring

• Apprentice-trained or equivalent experience in precision CNC machining
• Minimum 3 years experience on Sliding Head lathes in a manufacturing environment
• Confident with Fanuc controls and familiar with micron-level precision
• Able to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Team-focused, with the ability to work independently when required
• Knowledge of 3-axis milling or Wire EDM would be beneficial, but not essential

Why Apply?

• Modern, well-equipped machine shop
• Varied, interesting workload across production and R&D components
• Stable, growing business offering long-term career progression
• Opportunities to develop into Senior Programmer / Team Leader roles

If you’re an experienced Sliding Head Programmer / Operator looking for a role where quality, precision, and teamwork matter, we’d like to hear from you.

Send your CV to (url removed) or call (phone number removed) for a confidential chat.