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CNC Programmer, Setter & Operator

Based: Leicester
Salary – Up to £35,000 per year
Contract Length – Permanent

    Key Responsibilities:

    Programme, set and operate 3-axis CNC milling machinery to manufacture precision optical components.
    Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and process documentation accurately.
    Work consistently to micron-level dimensional tolerances and surface requirements.
    Set machines accurately and verify offsets and tooling prior to production.
    Produce first off components and carry out in-process checks to ensure conformity.
    Inspect finished components using CMM and appropriate precision measurement equipment.
    Clean components using approved processes while maintaining strict optical cleanliness requirements.
    Carry out visual and surface inspections in accordance with applicable standards.
    Identify defects, damage, contamination, scratches, chips or other non conformances and escalate where appropriate.
    Complete process sheets, inspection records and other production documentation accurately.
    Maintain full product traceability throughout the manufacturing process.
    Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and approved manufacturing processes.
    Understand and adhere to TPMs and contribute to maintaining equipment in good working condition.
    Maintain a clean, organised and controlled working environment appropriate for the manufacture of optical components.
    Handle delicate and high value optical materials and components with care at all stages of manufacture and inspection.
    Work effectively both independently and as part of a wider fabrication and production team.
    Manage workload and priorities effectively to meet production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
    Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing processes, efficiency, quality and repeatability.
    Support continuous improvement initiatives within the fabrication area.
    Report equipment issues, tooling problems, quality concerns and process abnormalities promptly.
    ***The responsibilities listed above are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks to be performed. Additional duties are likely to be required as directed by the Department Manager.

    Skills & Qualifications

    Essential
    Proven experience programming, setting and operating 3-axis CNC milling machines.
    Experience manufacturing precision components to tight dimensional tolerances.
    Experience working to micron-level tolerances.
    Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
    Experience using precision measurement equipment.
    Good understanding of machining principles, tooling and cutting parameters.
    Experience working with process sheets, SOPs and controlled manufacturing documentation.
    Understanding of TPM principles and the importance of machine condition and preventative maintenance.
    High level of manual dexterity and hand-to-eye coordination.
    Excellent attention to detail.
    Ability to work accurately and consistently with small and delicate components.
    Strong time-management and organisational skills.
    Ability to work independently and use initiative when required.
    Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
    Strong commitment to quality and doing the job correctly first time.
    Good understanding of health & safety within a manufacturing environment.
    Desirable
    Experience programming, setting or operating 5-axis CNC machinery.
    Previous experience within precision engineering, optical manufacturing or a similarly controlled manufacturing environment.
    Experience working with infrared optical materials or other delicate/brittle materials.
    Experience using CMM equipment for dimensional inspection.
    Experience with optical surface inspection and cleanliness requirements.
    Knowledge of ISO and DIN standards relating to optical components and surface quality.
    Experience with CNC programming software/CAM systems.
    Experience with tight-tolerance milling of non-metallic, brittle or specialist materials.
    Experience contributing to continuous improvement or Lean manufacturing initiatives.
    Understanding of SPC, process capability and statistical quality control would be advantageous.

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