CNC Production Operator

Gi Group UK; Athlone; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with shift premium

Comprehensive training programme

Career progression opportunities

Modern manufacturing environment

Pension and Healthcare package

Life-changing medical devices

Job summary

Gi Group UK is seeking motivated Production Operators to join our manufacturing team in Athlone. You will operate high-precision CNC equipment creating life-changing medical devices, with full training and a clear path to roles such as CNC Set-Up Technician or Manufacturing Technician.

Ideal candidates have a mechanical mindset, strong attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. The role includes a three-shift rotating cycle or permanent shift cycle with weekend work potential.

Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing or engineering preferred but not essential.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in engineering.
• Good numerical ability and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions and SOPs.

Responsibilities

• Operate high-precision CNC manufacturing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload precision components with traceability.
• Perform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Read drawings, work instructions and production documentation.
• Identify defects and raise quality concerns promptly.
• Monitor machine performance and recognise abnormalities.
• Carry out routine cleaning and basic preventative maintenance.
• Complete production records accurately.
• Follow GMP and SOPs; support continuous improvement.
• Maintain 5S standards and good housekeeping.
• Work within a rotating shift environment.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Numerical ability

Attention to detail

Follow instructions

Teamwork

Independent initiative

Attendance reliability

Shift work adaptability

Tools

CNC machining experience

Job description

Technical Production Operator (CNC Manufacturing)

Location: Athlone

Shift Pattern: Three-Shift Rotating Cycle or permanent shift cycle - may involve weekend work

Reports To: Production Supervisor

About the Role

We are seeking motivated and technically minded Production Operators to join our growing manufacturing team. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with advanced manufacturing technology and have a strong mechanical aptitude.

You will operate high-precision CNC manufacturing equipment producing orthopaedic medical devices that improve patients' quality of life. Full training will be provided; however, successful candidates must demonstrate strong technical ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality products safely and efficiently.

This role offers excellent opportunities for career progression into CNC Set-Up Technician, Manufacturing Technician, Engineering, or Quality roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate advanced CNC manufacturing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload precision components while maintaining product traceability.
• Perform routine in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Read manufacturing drawings, work instructions and production documentation.
• Identify product defects and upscale quality concerns promptly.
• Monitor machine performance and recognise abnormalities.
• Perform routine machine cleaning and basic preventative maintenance.
• Complete production records accurately.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain high housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Work effectively within a rotating shift environment.

Essential Requirements

• Previous manufacturing or engineering experience preferred but not essential.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and an interest in engineering or manufacturing.
• Good numerical ability.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions.
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Reliable with an excellent attendance record.
• Comfortable working on a rotating three-shift cycle.

Desirable Experience

• CNC machining experience.
• Medical device manufacturing.
• Precision engineering.
• Machine operation.
• Inspection using measuring equipment.
• Lean Manufacturing or 5S.
• ERP or MES systems.

Personal Attributes

• Technically curious and enjoy understanding how machines work.
• Self-motivated with strong initiative.
• Quality conscious and committed to producing Right First Time products.
• Reliable and dependable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Strong problem solvers with good common sense.
• Safety focused.
• Team players with a positive attitude.
• Eager to learn and develop new skills.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with shift premium.
• Comprehensive training programme.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Modern, clean manufacturing environment.
• Pension and Healthcare package.
• Opportunity to work with advanced manufacturing technologies producing life-changing medical devices.