Sliding Head Operator And Programmer

Contract Solutions Scotland Ltd; Cupar; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Contract Solutions Scotland Ltd, based in Cupar, is seeking a Sliding Head Operator and Programmer to set up, program and run Star CNC machines to tight tolerances. You will interpret drawings, select tooling, and optimize programs while inspecting parts.

Collaborate with QA and Engineering to resolve issues and support continuous improvement, maintaining safety and clean production areas. The role is full-time and on-site in Cupar, requiring precision, problem-solving and team collaboration in

Qualifications

• Experience in CNC sliding head operation and programming with Star machines preferred.
• Able to read and interpret engineering drawings and use precision measuring instruments.
• Background in a high-precision manufacturing setting with ISO 9001 awareness.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and program Star sliding head CNC machines to meet specs.
• Interpret engineering drawings and select appropriate tooling and parameters.
• Create and optimize CNC programs; perform in-process inspections for tolerance control.
• Monitor production runs, adjust for accuracy and coordinate with QA/Engineering.
• Maintain equipment, follow health and safety procedures and support continuous improvement.

Skills

CNC sliding head

Machine programming

Reading drawings

Quality inspection

Education

Technical qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Precision measuring tools

Job description

Company Description

Contract Solutions Scotland Ltd, based in Cupar, Fife, is a recognised precision engineering supplier to aerospace, telecommunications, defence, medical, and motorsports industries across the UK, USA, Europe, and the Far East. Established in 2009, the company focuses on delivering high-quality, complex engineered components to demanding markets. Operations run from modern 2200 sq ft premises with a purpose-built inspection and finishing room, supported by 13 Matsuura CNC machining centres, DMG Mori fixed head lathes, and Star sliding head machines. The business invests continuously in advanced CAD/CAM, inspection technology, and staff development to maintain a seamless, high-accuracy manufacturing process. Accredited to BS EN ISO 9001/2008, Contract Solutions Scotland Ltd offers a professional environment focused on quality, skill development, and long-term customer partnerships.

Role Description

The Sliding Head Operator and Programmer role is a full-time, on-site position based in Cupar. The role involves setting, operating, and programming Star sliding head CNC machines to produce precision components to tight tolerances and customer specifications. Day-to-day tasks include interpreting engineering drawings, creating and optimizing CNC programs, selecting tooling, performing machine set-ups, and monitoring production runs to ensure consistency and quality. The role also includes conducting in-process inspections, making adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy, and working closely with the quality and engineering teams to resolve technical issues and improve processes. The Sliding Head Operator and Programmer is expected to follow health and safety procedures, maintain equipment and work areas, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in CNC sliding head operation and programming, ideally on Star machines.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, use precision measuring instruments, and work to tight tolerances.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software and basic understanding of CNC tooling, cutting parameters, and materials commonly used in aerospace and precision engineering.
• Background in a high-precision manufacturing environment, with awareness of ISO 9001 quality standards and inspection practices.
• Relevant technical qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, or CNC machining.
• Good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn new technologies, participate in training, and support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing activities.