Job Description
Job Title: CNC Manufacturing Team Lead
Location: Bedford
Salary: Up to £42,550 - We are booking interviews next week! Please call or email for a slot
We are seeking an experienced CNC Manufacturing Team Lead to join our team in Bedford. This is a hybrid leadership and hands-on role, operating within a low-volume, high-value, precision machining environment, producing critical hardware and R&D components.
You will lead and develop a team of skilled CNC machinists while remaining technically active on the shop floor, supporting complex, one-off and small-batch manufacturing activities.
About Us:
As a distinguished leader in the defence engineering industry, we are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions and pioneering projects. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a strong reputation, and we're looking for a talented CNC Manufacturing Team Lead to contribute to our continued success.
The Role:
So, what will you be doing as a CNC Manufacturing Team Lead?
Leadership & Team Management (Primary Focus)
* Lead, coach and supervise a team of up to 10 CNC machinists and technicians
* Own and manage a production cell, ensuring safety, quality, delivery and cost targets are achieved
* Plan, schedule and prioritise workloads to meet programme milestones and customer deadlines
* Conduct performance reviews, mentoring and skills development (including apprentices)
* Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with HSE, 6S and FOD control
* Track and deliver key KPIs including Safety, Quality, Cost, Schedule Adherence and On-Time Delivery
* Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives (lean manufacturing, process optimisation, cost reduction)
* Collaborate closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Design, Quality, Planning and Materials teams
* Provide manufacturability feedback to engineering teams to improve efficiency and reduce cycle times
* Support load balancing and best-practice sharing across the wider manufacturing function
CNC Machining & Technical Support
* Hands-on CNC programming, machine setup, tooling selection and proving out
* Operate multi-axis CNC machining centres (3–6 axis)
* Produce high-value, complex, one-off or low-volume components to engineering drawings
* Support development of machining processes, tooling and fixture design
* Liaise with tooling suppliers to optimise tool selection and performance
* Troubleshoot machine and process issues and implement corrective actions
* Develop and improve work instructions and procedures with engineering teams
What are we looking for in our next CNC Manufacturing Team Lead?
* Proven hands-on CNC machining background (milling or turning)
* Strong preference for 5-axis CNC milling experience
* Experience leading or supervising CNC teams in a precision machining environment
* Background in complex, low-volume or one-off component manufacture (not high-speed mass production)
* Ability to read and work from detailed engineering drawings and specifications
* Strong problem-solving skills and attention to quality
* Comfortable working in a safety-critical, regulated environment
Machinery & Programming Experience
Machines may include:
* Matsuura
* Correa Anayak
* Hurco
Programming Languages / Controls:
* Fanuc
* Heidenhain
* (Hypermill experience beneficial but not essential)
My client is keen to get this position filled ASAP, so if you feel you have the skills and desire to provide passion and drive as the next CNC Manufacturing Team Lead, this is the opportunity for you!
How to Apply:
Showcase your expertise and passion for leading teams. Submit your updated resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and enthusiasm for joining our team in Bedford.
***PLEASE NOTE***
Security Clearance (SC) or eligibility to gain is required to be considered for this vacancy