Job Title: CNC Operator
Location: Newton-le-Willows, Haydock
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: £30,000-£35,000 + Bonus + Benfits
Summary
Due to continued growth, new market opportunities and sustained high workload in the CNC department, a manufacturing business in the wood-based products sector is looking to recruit additional CNC Operators for a new afternoon shift team. You will work on a range of modern Homag CNC machines, including the latest models with AirTech functionality, helping to maintain commercially attractive lead times while delivering high-quality products safely and efficiently. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong CNC experience who enjoys problem-solving, continuous improvement and working with advanced machinery.
Key Responsibilities
* Select the correct CNC programme from the job sheet and set the machine and tooling according to programme parameters.
* Check and verify CNC programmes and make any necessary corrective adjustments.
* Set up tooling, including entering tool dimensions into the tool database.
* Proactively identify and implement efficiency and quality improvements where possible.
* Ensure products meet quality, dimensional and tolerance specifications, reporting any non-conformances immediately.
* Carry out safety and emergency stop checks before starting production.
* Log all production activities accurately on the WiPS or similar production system.
* Complete daily compliance documentation, including safety and quality checks.
* Report any health and safety issues, accidents, incidents or near misses promptly.
* Identify and report machine faults or defects to the CNC Supervisor and maintenance team.
* Promote and follow a strong health and safety culture at all times, including correct use of PPE.
* Maintain a tidy, safe, well-organised and well-maintained work area.
* Comply with all site rules, standard operating procedures and general house rules.
* Communicate effectively with the CNC Supervisor and colleagues in the CNC and wider production teams.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience
* Proven experience as a CNC Operator, ideally in a wood machining, joinery, furniture or panel processing environment.
* Working knowledge of the latest WoodWOP software.
* Confident in selecting, verifying and adjusting CNC programmes.
* Able to read and understand CAD drawings.
* Strong focus on working safely and efficiently in a production environment.
* Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage workload in line with production targets.
* High level of accuracy, attention to detail and commitment to quality.
* Awareness of health and safety requirements and safe systems of work.
Preferred Skills
* Experience working with Homag CNC machines, including multi-head or high-spec models.
* Experience of 5-axis CNC machining.
* Experience of 5S or other lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
* Proactive, enthusiastic and committed approach to work.
* Reliable, punctual and cooperative, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
* Confident communicator who can raise issues and suggest improvements constructively