Cnc miller / programmer / machine operator 3 axis vmc

This is a hands‑on CNC machinist / programmer‑setter‑operator role in a relatively small (50 employees) but growing motorsport and performance automotive business. It is not a narrow production- machine‑operator job. The role is suited to someone who can work independently, make one‑off and small‑batch precision parts, support R&D, and interact with fabrication, workshop, calibration, dispatch, and stock‑control teams.

The strongest fit would be someone who is already confident programming, setting and operating CNC mills, preferably with Siemens controls, Fusion CAD/CAM, and experience in motorsport, turbochargers, performance engines, BMW or VAG vehicles.

We are also looking for a driven individual who is keen to manage and grow the CNC shop over the coming years.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK. We possess a Tier 2 Sponsorship licence for overseas applicants who meet our criteria, but we prioritise UK candidates.

Recruitment agencies (or associated services), please do not contact us about these roles via telephone or email.

Future Prospects

As the company continues to grow, staff roles, benefits and responsibilities will grow with it. We are looking for a core team that will lead the company in the right direction to continued success. We believe in allowing employees freedom to work using their own initiative and ideas. Many of our current and future products have been ideas from staff at all levels. Investment for the future, and R&D, are taken very seriously, meaning staff retention and customer satisfaction are essential.

Benefits of working for Darkside Developments

Anyone working at Darkside Developments will be working for a fast‑moving business with great prospects and job satisfaction. All current staff are like‑minded enthusiasts keen to push the company forward as a team. We have an extensive racing calendar and assist all employees with their own projects. At the moment we have over 40 key members of staff, and the roles we’re looking to fill will work alongside current experienced individuals.

Other Benefits

• New purpose‑built facility with modern, air‑conditioned offices, vehicle workshop, fabrication workshop, chassis dynamometer, warehousing and dispatch all on one site.
• Competitive salary and substantial performance‑related bonus scheme.
• Significant ongoing investment in R&D projects, facilities and new equipment.
• Discounted car parts and labour.

Working Hours

Full‑time: Monday to Friday, 08:00‑17:00.

28 paid holiday days (including bank holidays).

Special working conditions may include one late evening per week and weekends away racing.

Job Purpose

• Milling components to high precision standards.
• Programming, setting and operating CNC milling machine SYIL X9.
• Producing one‑off components and small‑batch work (typically 1–5 units).
• Working with Siemens control systems and Fusion CAD.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Ability to program, set and operate CNC milling machines independently.
• Experience working with Siemens controls.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

Progression

Progression within the role is possible with dedication and expansion. The team may grow and the role may lead to a managerial position. We aim to have a further two machines within the next 6‑12 months (lathe and 5‑axis mill).

• Salary £33,000‑42,000 (depending on experience).
• Will involve weekend work and late nights to meet unmovable deadlines.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Check daily task list – ensure tasks are checked daily, maintain direction and consistency, minimise priority errors, maximise productivity, and tick off completed jobs.
• Wide range of duties including R&D work on turbochargers for company‑owned development vehicles (track car and drag car).
• Liaise with the workshop service manager to prioritise workshop jobs requiring machine work.
• Liaise with the fabrication unit and lead fabricator to schedule machined parts.
• Liaise with the lead powertrain calibration and development engineer to work on new turbocharger hybrids.
• Liaise with the dispatch manager to ensure order fulfilment is met daily and stock levels are maintained.

Qualifications

Not required; qualification weight is less than skill, experience, and enthusiasm.

Skills and Abilities

• Good time‑keeping.
• General good upkeep of appearance and cleanliness.
• Ability to work with an apprentice.
• Ability to learn.
• Good teamwork communication skills.
• Creative thinking and problem‑solving.
• Self‑esteem, motivation, and goal setting.
• Organisational effectiveness and leadership.

Experience

• CNC milling machine: 2 years (required).
• Stock control.
• BMW/VAG experience would be beneficial.
• Formal qualifications are less important than skill, experience and enthusiasm.

Attributes

• Confident.
• Self‑motivated.
• Organised.
• Methodical.
• Able to work as part of a tight‑knit team.

Working Conditions

Normal indoor working conditions. Special conditions may include one late evening per week, Saturday work, and working with challenging clients.

Physical Requirements

The role can be physically demanding. Employees may stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects regularly, and perform repetitive tasks with few breaks.

Only successful candidates will be contacted. We are not currently looking for trainees or apprentices. Any unsuitable applications will not be responded to.