CNC Setter/Operator, Makefast, Newtown

Sep 18

Vacancy – CNC Setter/Operator

Programming experience desirable - internal training provided

Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
Terms: Permanent / Full Time

Hours: 38 hours per week
Location: Newtown, Powys
Reporting to: Manufacturing Manager

About Us

Makefast is a leading UK engineering and manufacturing company, supplying innovative products to the luxury marine and safety industries. With over 100 employees across three sites in Mid Wales, we are committed to quality, innovation and investing in our people.

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced CNC Setter/Operator to join our Manufacturing team, setting and operating CNC turning equipment to produce high-quality components in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications.

You’ll maintain high standards of quality, safety and efficiency while helping to reduce setup times, scrap and machine downtime.

Programming experience is desirable but not essential. Internal training and support will be provided

Our CNC equipment includes Mazak QTS/SQT 250, Mazak QT-10, Star 32JII Swiss-type CNC and Doosan Puma TT1800SY machines.

Key Responsibilities

CNC Setting & Operation

Set up and operate CNC lathes and CNC turning centres.
Set and adjust tooling, workholding, offsets, speeds, feeds and cutting parameters.
Load and verify existing CNC programs, making controlled edits within your competence and seeking programming support where required.
Operate bar feeders, sub-spindles, live/driven tooling and twin-spindle equipment where applicable.
Monitor machine cycles and maintain efficient production rates.
Change tools and adjust offsets to maintain product quality and dimensional accuracy.

Quality & Inspection

Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications and production instructions.
Produce components to required dimensional and surface-finish standards.
Complete first-off inspections and in-process quality checks.
Use precision measuring equipment including micrometres, verniers, bore gauges, height gauges and thread gauges.
Accurately complete production records, inspection documentation and job paperwork.
Identify and report quality issues promptly.

Machine & Process Support

Identify and resolve common machining issues including tool wear, chatter, dimensional variation and swarf control.
Maintain machine cleanliness and carry out routine operator-level maintenance.
Report machine faults, tooling problems and production delays promptly.
Support continuous improvement activities to reduce setup times, scrap and machine downtime.
Contribute to improvements in machining methods, productivity and manufacturing processes.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Work safely at all times in accordance with company Health & Safety procedures.
Correctly use required PPE and operate machinery in accordance with safe working practices.
Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
Follow company quality, housekeeping and environmental procedures.
Report hazards, defects and unsafe conditions promptly.

CNC Programming - Desirable

Contribute to creating, modifying and optimising CNC programs using G-code, Mazatrol or offline CAD/CAM.
Experience with Swiss-type or multi-channel programming is welcomed, including synchronisation, hand-offs, main-to-sub spindle transfers and back-working.
Knowledge of post-processors, simulation and collision verification would be an advantage. Internal training and support will be provided as your programming responsibilities develop.

Candidate Requirements

Education / Qualifications

City & Guilds, NVQ, BTEC, Engineering Apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in CNC Machining or Engineering (Desirable).

Knowledge / Skills / Experience

Previous experience setting and operating CNC turning machines.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and tolerances.
Competent in the use of precision measuring and inspection equipment.
Good understanding of cutting tools, workholding, tool selection and machining parameters.
Ability to identify and resolve common machining problems.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
Experience with Mazak CNC equipment (Desirable).
Experience with Swiss-type CNC machinery (Desirable).
Experience with Y-axis, sub-spindle, driven tooling or twin-spindle turning centres (Desirable).
Experience with Doosan Puma or similar CNC turning equipment (Desirable).
Experience with Fanuc or other CNC control systems (Desirable).
Experience machining stainless steel, aluminium, brass, plastics or other engineering materials (Desirable).
Experience working within ISO 9001 or similar quality systems (Desirable).
Experience creating, modifying or optimising CNC programs using G-code, Mazatrol or offline CAD/CAM (Desirable)

Behaviours / Competencies

Reliable, punctual and accountable.
Practical and mechanically minded.
Methodical with strong attention to detail.
Quality-focused with pride in producing accurate work.
Able to work to production requirements without compromising standards.
Positive and proactive approach to problem solving.
Works effectively independently and as part of a team.
Willing to develop CNC programming skills through internal training and learn new machines, processes and manufacturing techniques.

What We Offer

Competitive salary.
Company sick pay after 2 years' service.
30 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays) in your first year, increasing with length of service.
Flexitime (where applicable).
Employee Assistance Programme.
Healthcare Scheme.
Company Pension Scheme.
Bike to Work Scheme.
Training and development opportunities.

How to Apply

If you have the relevant skills and experience and are interested in joining Makefast, please send your CV and a covering letter to HR@makefast.com.

Makefast is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.