Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator required for a specialist precision manufacturing company based in the Keighley, West Yorkshire area.
This position is responsible for learning the manufacture of precision springs, wire forms and pressings using CNC spring‑making machinery. The successful candidate will receive structured training with the opportunity to progress into a fully skilled CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.
The company is also open to considering engineering graduates or college leavers. Graduate candidates may initially support the installation and implementation of a new automated Keyence vision inspection system, before progressing into the CNC Spring Maker role through an accelerated training programme.
Job Overview
- Assist with the set‑up of CNC spring‑making and bench machinery ready for production.
- Learn to operate CNC machinery safely and efficiently to manufacture springs, wire forms and pressings.
- Support experienced Machine Setters with machine changeovers, tooling and production set‑ups.
- Monitor production output to ensure components meet customer specifications and delivery schedules.
- Carry out quality inspections using measuring equipment including verniers, gauges and 3D vision inspection systems.
- Record production and quality data accurately on work orders and inspection documentation.
- Assist with routine machine maintenance and basic fault finding under supervision.
- Support continuous improvement activities across the manufacturing department.
- Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
- Follow all company Quality, Health & Safety and Environmental procedures.
- For graduate engineers, initially assist with the installation, testing and implementation of a new Keyence automated camera inspection system before progressing into CNC machine setting responsibilities.
- Work closely with Production, Quality and Engineering teams to ensure efficient manufacturing operations.
- Progress through structured training towards becoming a fully competent CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.
Job Requirements
- Engineering qualification preferred (Degree, HNC/HND, BTEC or equivalent) though college leavers will also be considered.
- Genuine interest in manufacturing, mechanical engineering or CNC machinery.
- Strong willingness to learn new technical skills.
- Good mechanical aptitude and practical problem‑solving ability.
- Basic understanding of engineering drawings would be advantageous.
- Good mathematical ability and attention to detail.
- Ability to work accurately whilst following written procedures.
- Positive attitude with a strong work ethic.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively within a manufacturing team.
- Reliable, punctual and self‑motivated.
Desirable
- Mechanical Engineering Degree or similar.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
- Experience using measuring equipment such as verniers or micrometers.
- CAD or engineering software experience.
- Experience of production or manufacturing environments.
- Understanding of quality inspection processes.
- Exposure to automation or machine vision systems (particularly Keyence) would be advantageous but is not essential.
Qualifications
- Engineering Degree, HNC/HND, BTEC Level 3 or equivalent preferred.
- College leavers with a genuine interest in engineering are encouraged to apply.
- GCSE Mathematics and English (or equivalent).
- Full UK Driving Licence beneficial but not essential.
Salary & Benefits
Salary: £20,000 – £35,000 (DOE & Qualifications) (Will consider unqualified, graduate or experienced)
Hours: Monday‑Friday, 34–37 hours per week (Flexible working hours available, annual hours contract)
Employment Type: Permanent
Full‑time permanent position. Structured training programme. Fast‑track development into CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker. Opportunity to work with specialist CNC spring manufacturing equipment. Involvement in the installation of new automated inspection technology. Company Pension Scheme. Holiday entitlement. Stable, well‑established manufacturing business. Long‑term career progression within engineering and manufacturing.
Key Success Measures
- Successful completion of structured training programme.
- Safe and efficient operation of CNC spring‑making machinery.
- Consistent production of components to customer specification.
- Accurate completion of production and quality documentation.
- High standards of quality, accuracy and attention to detail.
- Positive contribution to production targets and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Successful progression towards becoming a fully competent CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.
- For graduate candidates, successful support and implementation of the Keyence vision inspection system.