CNC & General Machinist

Job Description

The CNC & General Machinist is responsible for setting, operating, and programming a range of machine tools including CNC lathes, CNC mills, and grinding equipment.

The role includes creating and editing CNC programs, interpreting engineering drawings, and supporting other teams by advising on manufacturability and correct interpretation of specifications.

The machinist ensures high‑quality precision components are produced in line with engineering requirements, safety standards, and production schedules.

CNC Machining & Programming

• Set, operate, and adjust CNC turning, CNC milling, and grinding machines to manufacture precision components.
• Create new CNC programs using the appropriate programming language (e.g., Fanuc, Siemens, Heidenhain, etc.).
• Edit, optimise, and improve existing CNC programs to enhance efficiency, quality, and cycle times.
• Load, set, and adjust tooling, workholding fixtures, and offsets.

General Machining Skills

• Operate manual lathes, mills, and grinders when required for prototype or low-volume work.
• Perform precision measurement using micrometers, verniers, height gauges, CMM reports, and other metrology equipment.
• Ensure components meet engineering tolerances, geometric dimensioning, and quality specifications.

Drawing Interpretation & Technical Support

• Interpret engineering drawings, 3D models, tolerances, and GD&T symbols accurately.
• Support engineering, production, and third‑party suppliers with drawing interpretation and manufacturability guidance.
• Identify potential issues in designs and communicate improvement suggestions to engineering teams.

Quality, Safety & Documentation

• Conduct first-off, in-process, and final inspection checks to ensure product quality.
• Complete production documentation, inspection records, and job travellers accurately.
• Ensure all work complies with company safety policies, ISO standards, and machining best practices.
• Maintain a clean and organised workstation and perform routine machine maintenance.

Production Efficiency

• Collaborate closely with supervisors and planners to meet production deadlines and priorities.
• Recommend tooling, process improvements, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Troubleshoot machine issues, tool wear, and process deviations.

Qualifications

Vocational or Technical Qualification 

Engineering / Advanced Apprenticeships (any recognised standard) in

• Mechanical Engineering
• Manufacturing Engineering
• Toolmaking
• Precision Machining
• Maintenance Engineering (which contain machining modules)
• Aerospace Manufacturing
• Engineering Fitter

SVQ / NVQ Level 2–3 in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Machining

City & Guilds Level 2–3 in Engineering Operations or CNC Machining

Additional Information

Technical Knowledge

Essential

• Proven experience in CNC machining within a manufacturing or precision engineering environment.
• Strong capability in CNC turning, milling, and surface/cylindrical grinding.
• Ability to write, edit, and optimise CNC programs.
• Excellent interpretation of technical drawings, GD&T, tolerances, and material specifications.
• Practical knowledge of cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and machining best practices.
• Ability to use a full range of precision measuring equipment.
• Good problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred

• Experience with multiple CNC controls (e.g., Fanuc, Mazak, Siemens, Heidenhain).
• Background in high‑precision environments such as aerospace, automotive, or electronics.
• Understanding of CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidCAM, Fusion360, Mastercam).
• Experience with prototype work, small batch production, or tooling manufacture.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (Careers - Smiths Group plc)