CNC Sliding Head Programmer

Matchtech; Poole; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Early finish Fridays

Permanent position

Modern manufacturing environment

Training and development

Benefits package

Job summary

Matchtech is seeking an experienced CNC Sliding Head Programmer / Setter / Operator for our Poole-based shop. You will program, set and operate sliding head lathes to produce precision components from engineering drawings, with a 39-hour week and an early finish every Friday.

The role offers a stable, full-time opportunity in a modern manufacturing environment. You will develop and optimise programs, prepare tooling and fixtures, and perform first-off inspections to ensure parts meet tight

Qualifications

• Proven experience programming, setting and operating CNC sliding head machines.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Experience working to tight tolerances and using inspection equipment.
• Strong problem-solving and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Program CNC sliding head lathes using G-code and/or CAM software.
• Develop and optimise programs to improve cycle times, tooling performance, and productivity.
• Set and prove out CNC sliding head machines.
• Prepare and install tooling, guide bushes, and workholding equipment.
• Operate machinery to manufacture components to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Carry out first-off and in-process inspection of components.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the machine shop.

Skills

Programming

Setting

Operating

Read drawings

Tight tolerances

Inspection tools

Problem solving

Tools

Citizen machines

Tornos machines

Offline CAM software

Job description

CNC Sliding Head Programmer / Setter / Operator

Location: Poole

Hours: 07:00 - 16:00 Monday to Thursday (30-minute lunch break) and 07:00 - 12:00 Friday, totalling 39 hours per week.

Salary: Competitive (DOE)

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced CNC Sliding Head Programmer / Setter / Operator to join our busy and growing machine shop team. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled machinist with experience programming, setting, and operating sliding head machines to manufacture high-quality, precision-engineered components.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring parts are produced efficiently, accurately, and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Programming

• Program CNC sliding head lathes using G-code and/or CAM software.
• Develop and optimise programs to improve cycle times, tooling performance, and productivity.
• Modify and improve existing programs where required.
• Troubleshoot programming and machining issues.

Setting & Operating

• Set and prove out CNC sliding head machines.
• Prepare and install tooling, guide bushes, and workholding equipment.
• Operate machinery to manufacture components to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Monitor machine performance and make offset adjustments as necessary.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the machine shop.

Quality & Inspection

• Carry out first-off and in-process inspection of components.
• Use precision measuring equipment including micrometers, verniers, gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Ensure all components meet customer specifications, quality standards, and tolerance requirements.
• Complete relevant production and quality documentation.

Health, Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere to all health and safety policies and procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment.
• Report equipment issues, quality concerns, or safety risks promptly.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience programming, setting, and operating CNC Sliding Head machines.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Strong understanding of machining principles and cutting tools.
• Experience working to tight tolerances.
• Competent using inspection and measuring equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Desirable

• Experience with Citizen and/or Tornos sliding head machines.
• Knowledge of offline CAM software.
• Experience within a high-precision manufacturing environment.

What's on Offer?

• Early finish every Friday
• Stable, full-time permanent position
• Modern manufacturing environment
• Opportunities for training and development
• Competitive salary and benefits package