CNC Sliding Head Setter / Operator

Interaction Recruitment Group; Hitchin; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowance

Job summary

Interaction Recruitment is seeking an experienced CNC Sliding Head Setter/Operator in Hitchin, Hertfordshire. You will set, operate and adjust sliding head machines, read drawings, and ensure high-precision components with tight tolerances.

The role involves reading CNC programmes, performing first-off inspections, and collaborating closely with production and engineering teams to meet targets. Shift pattern includes rotating early and late shifts.

Qualifications

• Experience setting and operating CNC sliding head machines.
• Reading engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Setting tools, offsets and making adjustments.
• Reading CNC programmes.
• Producing components to tight tolerances.
• First-off inspections and quality checks.
• Using micrometers, verniers and gauges.
• Monitoring machine performance and resolving issues.
• Working with production and engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Set and operate CNC sliding head machines to produce components.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specs to ensure accuracy.
• Set tools, offsets and adjust CNC programmes as needed.
• Perform first-off checks and quality inspections during production.
• Maintain clean and safe work environment and assist team as required.

Skills

CNC sliding head

CNC turning

Fanuc controls

Reading drawings

Tool setting

Measurement tools

Job description

CNC Sliding Head Setter / Operator

Location: Hitchin, Hertfordshire
Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 per annum (including shift allowance)
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Shift Pattern: Rotating Early and Late Shifts

About the Role

Interaction Recruitment is currently recruiting for an experienced CNC Sliding Head Setter / Operator to join a well-established precision engineering and manufacturing company based in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled CNC engineer with experience setting and operating sliding head machines to join a successful manufacturing business offering long‑term stability and career development.

The successful candidate will be responsible for setting, operating and adjusting CNC sliding head machines to produce high‑quality precision components while maintaining excellent standards of accuracy and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Setting and operating CNC sliding head machines.

• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications.

• Setting tools, offsets and making necessary machine adjustments.

• Reading, understanding and making adjustments to CNC programmes.

• Producing precision‑engineered components to tight tolerances.

• Carrying out first‑off inspections and ongoing quality checks.

• Using measuring equipment, including micrometers, verniers and gauges.

• Monitoring machine performance and resolving machining issues.

• Ensuring production targets and quality standards are consistently achieved.

• Maintaining a clean, organised and safe working environment.

• Working closely with the production and engineering teams.

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience setting and operating CNC sliding head machines.

• Good understanding of CNC turning and precision machining.

• Experience working with Fanuc controls would be advantageous.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

• Confident setting tools, offsets and adjusting CNC programmes.

• Good knowledge of cutting tools, machining processes and tolerances.

• Experience using precision measuring equipment.

• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Reliable, hardworking and committed to producing quality work.

Desirable Experience

Experience with any of the following would be beneficial:

• Citizen sliding head machines.

• Star sliding head machines.

• Fanuc CNC controls.

• CNC programming and programme editing.

• Precision engineering and small component manufacturing.

• High‑volume or batch production.

• Machine troubleshooting and process improvements.

Working Hours

Rotating Shift Pattern:

• Early Shift: 6:00am - 2:00pm

• Late Shift: 1:30pm - 10:00pm

• Monday to Friday

• Early finish on Fridays when working the late shift

Salary & Benefits

• £30,000 - £40,000 per annum, including shift allowance.

• Permanent, full-time empl