Elite Precision CNC Sliding Head Lathe Operator

Thorlabs; Ely; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributed Pension Scheme

Private Health Care

Group Life Cover

Group Income Protection

Job summary

Thorlabs in Ely is seeking a skilled CNC Sliding Head Lathe setter/operator to join our Manufacturing Engineering team. You will set up, load and machine components on a Sliding Head Lathe, manage high-mix production, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances.

The role requires 3+ years on sliding head lathes, SMED, GD&T, Fanuc controls, and a proactive approach to Lean manufacturing. Training and development opportunities are available, with a safety-focused, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience on Sliding Head Lathes in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience setting up, operating and maintaining Sliding Head Lathes daily.
• Familiarity with SMED to minimise downtime between setups.
• Good understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Working knowledge of Fanuc based controls.
• Experience with micron level precision in manufacturing.
• Experience in process improvement and Lean manufacturing.
• Knowledge of programming Sliding Head Lathes is desirable but not essential.
• Knowledge of 3-axis milling and Wire EDM is desirable but not essential.
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Team-oriented with the ability to work independently and resolve problems quickly.
• Ability to teach others and share knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Set up, load and machine components on a Sliding Head Lathe.
• Schedule and load high mix, low/medium volume batches while minimising setups.
• Ensure component quality with appropriate inspection tools and documentation.
• Help optimise programs and troubleshoot production issues.
• Respond to ad-hoc R&D requests and meet deadlines with planning/R&D teams.
• Share best practices to enhance team competency and knowledge.
• Utilise colleagues to assist in setup changes to reduce downtime (SMED).
• Contribute to lean process improvements.
• Operate other CNC machinery when required and perform basic finish work.

Skills

Apprenticeship/training

Sliding Head Lathe experience

Set up and operation

SMED / changeover reduction

GD&T understanding

Fanuc controls knowledge

Micron precision

Lean manufacturing

Programming Sliding Head Lathes (desir

3-axis milling / Wire EDM (desir)

Attention to detail & multitasking

Teamwork & independence

Problem solving

Knowledge sharing / mentoring

Tools

Fanuc controls

Job description

Thorlabs in Ely is seeking a skilled CNC Sliding Head Lathe setter/operator to join our Manufacturing Engineering team. You will set up, load and machine components on a Sliding Head Lathe, manage high-mix production, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances.

The role requires 3+ years on sliding head lathes, SMED, GD&T, Fanuc controls, and a proactive approach to Lean manufacturing. Training and development opportunities are available, with a safety-focused, collaborative environment.