Precision CNC Sliding Head Lathe Operator

Thorlabs Ltd; Ely; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Private Health Care

Group Life Cover

Group Income Protection

Job summary

Thorlabs Ltd in Ely is seeking a skilled CNC Sliding Head Lathe operator to set up, load and machine components for production and R&D use. You will schedule high-mix batches, minimise machine downtimes and ensure components meet dimensional requirements with precise measurements.

The role requires apprenticeship training or equivalent, a minimum of 3 years on Sliding Head Lathes, and strong understanding of GD&T and Fanuc controls. A proactive, team-oriented mindset is essential.

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship training or equivalent experience required.
• Minimum 3 years' experience on Sliding Head Lathes in manufacturing.
• Proficient in setting up, operating and daily maintenance of Sliding Head Lathes.
• Good understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Working knowledge of Fanuc controls.
• Experience with micron-level precision.
• Experience in process improvement and Lean manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Set up, load and machine components on Sliding Head Lathe.
• Schedule high-mix, low/medium-volume batches to meet turnaround times with minimal setup changes.
• Ensure parts meet specs using accurate measurements and inspection tools.
• Help optimise existing programs and troubleshoot production issues.
• Support R&D requests and liaise with planning and R&D teams.
• Share best practices in setup and operation of Sliding Head Lathes to boost team competency.
• Assist with SMED-driven setup changes to reduce machine downtime.
• Contribute to Lean initiatives to improve operations.
• Operate other CNC machines when required and perform basic hand finishing.

Skills

Sliding Head Lathe

SMED

Lean manufacturing

GD&T

Fanuc controls

Micron precision

Problem solving

Education

Apprenticeship trained or equivalent experience

Tools

3-axis milling

Wire EDM

Programming Sliding Head Lathes

Job description

Thorlabs Ltd in Ely is seeking a skilled CNC Sliding Head Lathe operator to set up, load and machine components for production and R&D use. You will schedule high-mix batches, minimise machine downtimes and ensure components meet dimensional requirements with precise measurements.

The role requires apprenticeship training or equivalent, a minimum of 3 years on Sliding Head Lathes, and strong understanding of GD&T and Fanuc controls. A proactive, team-oriented mindset is essential.