Mazco Recruitment are currently working with a leading precision engineering company in Welwyn Garden City who are looking to appoint an experienced CNC Miller Team Leader / Hypermill Programmer to lead their advanced milling department. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior machining professional to take ownership of a high-end milling cell focused on 5-axis machining, automation, and lights-out production. The Milling Department The department consists of four Mazak machines, including: * 3 × Mazak i600 5-axis machining centres * 1 × Mazak VCN vertical machining centre The 5-axis machines are equipped with 140-tool magazines and are connected to a 40-pallet automated loading system, allowing for high levels of automation and unmanned machining. The company has a strong focus on lights-out manufacturing, so previous experience working in an automated, high-efficiency production environment is essential. The Role The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the milling department and managing the production team, ensuring efficient machine utilisation and high-quality output. You will work closely with the Operations Manager to schedule production across the machines, organise workflow, and maintain optimal productivity. This is both a technical and leadership role, requiring strong programming knowledge alongside the ability to support and develop the shopfloor team. Key Responsibilities * Lead and manage the milling department and production team * Schedule work across the Mazak i600 5-axis machines and Mazak VCN * Develop and optimise machining strategies and NC programs * Program complex components using Hypermill CAM software * Support machinists with prove-outs, setup optimisation, and technical troubleshooting * Improve and refine existing NC programs for efficiency and reliability * Maintain high standards of automation, lights-out production, and process stability * Work closely with the Operations Manager to ensure production targets are achieved Candidate Requirements * 10 years CNC milling experience in a precision engineering environment * Strong experience with 5-axis machining * Proficiency with Hypermill CAM software (essential) * Experience working with Mazak machining centres * Knowledge of modern tooling, high-speed machining strategies, and advanced machining techniques * Experience working in lights-out / automated manufacturing environments * Ability to lead and support a machining team * Hands-on approach with the ability to assist on the shopfloor when required * Apprenticeship-trained machinists are highly desirable Salary & Package * £55,000 – £65,000 per year * Senior leadership role within a highly advanced machining environment * Opportunity to lead a modern 5-axis automated milling department