Job PurposeTo set-up, operate and maintain CNC turning and milling machines to manufacture precision components to blueprint specifications, tolerances and surface finishes consistent with high-quality manufacturing standards. Contribute to production efficiency, quality, machine uptime, and continuous improvement of processes.
Key Responsibilities - Interpret engineering drawings, work orders, job sheets and CAD/CAM output to determine machining sequence, tooling, work-holding and machine setup.
- Set up CNC machines (turning centres and/or multi-axis machining centres) including loading tool holders, fixtures, programmable offsets and verifying probe/tool values.
- Prove-out new programs or existing ones where required and adjust as necessary to meet tolerances, surface finish and cycle time targets.
- Load raw material (bar stock, billets, etc.) and ensure correct material type, clamping and work-holding.
- Operate CNC machine(s) through the cycle: monitor operations, perform in-process checks, make minor adjustments, stop the machine and adjust tooling/programming if required.
- Carry out first-piece inspection and subsequent in-process and final inspection tasks using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM (if applicable), and report any non-conforming work.
- Conduct preventative maintenance, basic cleaning, tool changes, machine checks and maintain a clean, organised and safe work area (5S, housekeeping).
- Work in accordance with Health & Safety regulations, company policies and quality systems (e.g., ISO, 5S, TPM).
- Suggest improvements to tooling, processes, fixturing or machining sequences in order to improve efficiency, reduce cost per part and improve quality.
- Support production scheduling by working with operators/engineers to meet delivery deadlines, minimise downtime and control scrap.
- Possibly assist other machinists, support training of less experienced staff and contribute to the machining cell/team environment.