CNC Programmer Location: Northamptonshire
Salary: £50,000 – £55,000
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:30
Contract Type: Permanent
We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to join a high-performance Pattern Shop supporting elite-level motorsport and advanced composite manufacturing. This role is ideal for someone with strong CNC programming expertise, hands-on pattern shop experience, and a background working with composite tooling, moulds, and precision components.
The successful candidate will play a key role in producing high-accuracy patterns and tooling used across complex composite structures. You will be responsible for programming multi-axis CNC machines, improving machining processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and precision.
Key Responsibilities
Create, develop, and optimise CNC programs for multi-axis machining of patterns, moulds, jigs, and composite tooling components
Work closely with engineers, pattern makers, and composites teams to deliver tooling to exact specifications
Interpret complex engineering drawings, assemblies, and CAD models with a high level of accuracy
Select appropriate tooling, feeds, and speeds for composite and pattern-making materials including Rohacell, modelling board, carbon tooling blocks, and similar substrates
Ensure components meet strict dimensional, surface finish, and structural requirements
Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance machining efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability
Oversee machining operations from programming through to completion, ensuring safe and efficient workflow
Collaborate with downstream manufacturing teams to align machining with next-stage processes such as trimming, laminating, or assembly
Assist in maintaining machining records, tool libraries, setup sheets, and quality documentation
Troubleshoot machining issues and provide proactive solutions to minimise downtime
Experience & Skills Required
Proven experience working in a Pattern Shop or similar precision manufacturing environment
Strong CNC programming capability, ideally with multi-axis machines used for pattern and tooling manufacture
Previous experience within motorsport, automotive, aerospace, or high-performance engineering (F1 or similar backgrounds highly advantageous)
Ability to interpret and work from complex engineering drawings, CAD data, and assemblies
Experience machining composite tooling materials, moulds, jigs, fixtures, and/or Rohacell
Understanding of downstream composite processes (e.g. lay-up, trimming, autoclave tooling, assembly)
Demonstrable track record of improving CNC programs for efficiency, quality, and accuracy
Strong attention to detail, problem-solving capability, and commitment to high standards