Lead CNC Machining Engineer - Strategy & Process Innovation

Lockheed Martin; Ampthill; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Lockheed Martin Ampthill seeks a Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer to lead CNC machining strategy and advanced tooling within Operations Engineering. The role is the technical focal point for machining, driving excellence through optimized programming, fixture design, tooling strategy, and process improvement.

You will improve machining processes to reduce cycle times and increase yield, supporting manufacture of high-precision components.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a CNC manufacturing or precision machining environment.
• Mastery of 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC programming and machining processes.
• Expert-level proficiency in HyperMill.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining strategies for complex geometries and tight-tolerance components.
• Deep knowledge of metallurgy, material machinability, cutting tool technology, feeds and speeds optimisation, and chip control.
• Extensive experience with advanced work holding, fixture design, and modular fixturing systems.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and engineering drawings.
• Proven experience optimizing machining processes for cycle time, tool life, surface finish, and dimensional capability.
• Experience supporting low-volume/high-complexity manufacturing and/or high-precision production environments.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex manufacturing and machining issues in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Experience working with ERP/MRP and manufacturing documentation systems.
• Experience leading a team of other engineers and technicians.
• Degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship, or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, or related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead CNC machining strategy development across the Operations Engineering department.
• Develop and improve functional operating processes and incorporate them into Lockheed Martin's governing processes.
• Own, lead and develop the technology roadmap for machining on behalf of the Operations Engineering department.
• Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centres.
• Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for standard and mill turn lathes.
• Design and implement advanced fixturing and work holding solutions to improve repeatability, precision, and throughput.
• Select and optimize cutting tools, tooling strategies, and machining parameters for a wide range of materials and geometries.
• Establish best practices for machining operations, setup reduction, tooling management, and process standardisation.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) activities through Design for Manufacture (DFM).
• Troubleshoot complex machining and tooling issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Work closely with Quality teams to ensure compliance with engineering tolerances, inspection requirements, and customer standards.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation including setup sheets, tooling lists, process flows, and work instructions.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies where appropriate.
• Support capital equipment selection, commissioning, and capability validation for new CNC machinery and automation technologies.
• Ensure all machining activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.

Skills

CNC programming

Multi-axis machining

HyperMill

GD&T

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Team leadership

ERP/MRP

Fixture design

Tooling strategy

Education

Manufacturing/Mechanical/Precision Eng degree

Tools

CAD/CAM programming

HyperMill

Job description

Lockheed Martin Ampthill seeks a Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer to lead CNC machining strategy and advanced tooling within Operations Engineering. The role is the technical focal point for machining, driving excellence through optimized programming, fixture design, tooling strategy, and process improvement.

You will improve machining processes to reduce cycle times and increase yield, supporting manufacture of high-precision components.