Senior CNC Programmer - 5-Axis Milling & Precision

Thorlabs; Ely; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free onsite parking

Free refreshments

Canteen entertainment area

Pension

Private health care

25 days holiday + public holidays

Job summary

Thorlabs in Ely seeks a skilled CNC Programmer to support R&D and Manufacturing with programming and machining of precision components. You will work on 3-axis and 5-axis milling, with potential for turning and Wire EDM, and engage in continuous improvement across departments.

You’ll use Vericut for virtual validation and metrology tools to verify tolerances, while maintaining safety, quality and collaboration across teams. Onsite parking and benefits apply.

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship trained or similar experience considered
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Machine Shop environment
• Experience with 3-axis and 5-axis milling with minimising downtime (SMED, zero-point workholding)
• Experience with Sliding Head Lathes highly desirable
• Experience with Wire Erosion desirable but not essential
• Experience working with micron-level precision for setup and machining
• Understanding of engineering drawings and machining methods
• Experience with Fanuc / Haas control systems
• Use of metrology techniques and measuring parts against drawings
• Working knowledge of CAD/ CAM software (Solidworks, MasterCAM, Vericut)
• Microsoft Office application skills

Responsibilities

• To program, set-up and run 3-axis and 5-axis milling centres to produce precision components in a high mix, low volume environment
• Set-up and run turning and Wire EDM CNC machines with appropriate training
• Extensive use of Vericut simulation software to digitally prove-out components prior to first-off machining
• Collaborate with the R&D and Manufacturing departments to support all machining activities and improve manufacturability
• Ensure component quality meets drawing requirements using metrology tools to validate tolerances and finishes
• Program to maximise machine efficiency and uptime
• Ensure proper work holding and machining techniques when handing over to production
• Carry out preventative maintenance routines with machine operators
• Adhere to company safety and environmental requirements
• Participate in Continuous Improvement/Lean initiatives to improve efficiency, quality and output
• Maintain a culture of 5S within the Machine Shop
• Share knowledge and best practices with other departments

Skills

3-axis milling

5-axis milling

metrology techniques

CAD/CAM software

Vericut

Solidworks

MasterCAM

Fanuc control systems

Haas control systems

reading engineering drawings

Education

Apprenticeship trained or similar experience

Tools

Fanuc control systems

Haas control systems

Vericut

Solidworks

MasterCAM

CAD/CAM software

Measuring equipment/metrology tools

Job description

Thorlabs in Ely seeks a skilled CNC Programmer to support R&D and Manufacturing with programming and machining of precision components. You will work on 3-axis and 5-axis milling, with potential for turning and Wire EDM, and engage in continuous improvement across departments.

You’ll use Vericut for virtual validation and metrology tools to verify tolerances, while maintaining safety, quality and collaboration across teams. Onsite parking and benefits apply.