Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist
(Technical Lead Level Defence Sector)
Bedfordshire | Permanent | £42,550 | 4 Day Week
We are supporting a specialist defence engineering manufacturer in the search for a Senior CNC Programmer / Machining Specialist to join a precision machining facility delivering complex, low-volume components for secure programmes.
This is a technical-first role with responsibility for supporting and guiding a small team within the machining cell. It offers the opportunity to step into a recognised technical leadership position while remaining hands-on.
The Role
You will:
* Program, set and prove-out multi-axis CNC machines (36 axis)
* Lead on 5-axis milling strategies and optimisation
* Support daily coordination of machining activities within the cell
* Act as the go-to technical specialist for complex components
* Provide mentoring and guidance to other machinists and apprentices
* Contribute to workload prioritisation and cell performance
* Support continuous improvement and problem-solving initiatives
Technical Environment
* Advanced multi-axis machining centres
* Strong bias toward 5-axis milling
* Fanuc and Heidenhain controls
* Complex one-off and R&D components
* Low-volume, high-value defence hardware
What Were Looking For
* Strong CNC milling background (5-axis preferred)
* Experience in complex one-off or precision machining
* Fanuc and/or Heidenhain programming
* Experience mentoring or supporting other machinists
* Background in defence, aerospace or advanced engineering
* Active SC clearance preferred candidates with recently lapsed SC may also be considered, subject to eligibility
* Must be eligible to obtain DV clearance
Why Apply?
* 4 day working week (MonThurs)
* Long-term defence programme stability
* Opportunity to influence and support a specialist machining team
* Clear progression pathway into formal Team Lead responsibility
Due to the nature of the work, strict security clearance eligibility criteria apply.
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