Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM)

James Kirby Associates Ltd; Caddington; On-site; GBP 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A precision machining company in the UK is seeking a Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) to create and optimize CNC programs for 3/4/5-axis milling machines. The ideal candidate will have experience in precision machining and a strong background in offline programming using CAD/CAM software. This role offers a competitive salary of £50,000 per annum, with overtime, flexible hours, and genuine progression opportunities within a growing business.

Benefits

Overtime paid at a premium rate

Flexible start and finish times

Negotiable benefits package

Modern facility

Qualifications

• Proven experience in 3, 4, and 5-axis milling.
• Skilled in offline programming with CAD/CAM software.
• Experience in precision machining environments.

Responsibilities

• Create offline CNC programs using CAD/CAM software.
• Work from 3D models and engineering drawings.
• Lead the introduction of new jobs into the workshop.

Skills

CNC programming

CAD/CAM software

3, 4, and 5-axis milling

Reading engineering drawings

Process improvement

Mentoring

Job description

Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM)

Company Overview:

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and respected precision machining company with a strong engineering heritage. Known for producing high-precision, high-value components, the company supports a wide range of industries including aerospace, defence, oil & gas, and communications. With a strong reputation, longstanding customer relationships, and a solid order book, the business continues to invest in people, technology, and process.

Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Role Overview

We are currently seeking an experienced Lead CNC Programmer to take a key role within the engineering department. This position will suit a highly skilled individual with proven expertise in offline programming for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines using CAD/CAM software. You will be responsible for programming all new work coming into the business — interpreting models and technical drawings, creating efficient programs, and supporting improvements on existing jobs. You'll work within a collaborative and friendly team environment, and play a vital role in supporting and developing less experienced team members.

Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Key Responsibilities

• Create offline CNC programs for 3/4/5-axis milling machines using CAD/CAM software
• Work directly from 3D models and engineering drawings to produce accurate and efficient machining strategies
• Lead the introduction of new jobs into the workshop, ensuring quality and efficiency from the outset
• Review and improve existing CNC programs for better cycle times, tooling efficiency, and process reliability
• Support and mentor junior programmers and machinists as part of a collaborative engineering team
• Liaise with production, quality, and engineering teams to ensure successful project delivery
• (Optional/Desirable) Support the estimating process for new enquiries — assisting in quoting time and tooling requirements
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support wider engineering objectives

Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) Candidate Requirements

• Strong CNC programming background with proven experience in 3, 4, and 5-axis milling
• Skilled in the use of CAD/CAM software for offline programming
• Background in a precision machining environment — ideally within aerospace, defence, oil & gas, or similar sectors
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and 3D CAD models
• Confident communicator with a team-first mindset and willingness to share knowledge
• Proactive approach to improving manufacturing processes and mentoring others
• Any experience in estimating or quoting would be advantageous
• Desire to progress within the business — with potential future opportunities such as Head of Engineering

Lead CNC Programmer (CAD/CAM) What's on Offer

• £50,000 per annum
• Overtime available and paid at a premium rate
• Flexible start and finish times days based Monday to Friday
• Negotiable benefits package tailored to attract top talent
• Modern facility with continued investment in machinery, software, and people
• Genuine progression opportunities in a growing and stable business