CNC Operator / CNC Programmer

Department: Manufacturing
Reports To: Production Manager
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 (Depending on Experience)

About the Company

Simon Acres Recruitment are working on behalf of an established bespoke joinery and furniture manufacturer seeking an experienced CNC Operator / CNC Programmer to join their growing manufacturing team.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a highly skilled business producing premium bespoke joinery and furniture for both residential and commercial projects.

The Role

The CNC Operator / Programmer will be responsible for the safe, accurate and efficient operation of CNC woodworking machinery, ensuring the manufacture of high-quality bespoke joinery components in line with approved production drawings, CNC programmes and technical specifications.

Working closely with the Design, CNC Programming, Bench Joinery and Production teams, you will play a key role in delivering bespoke projects to the highest standards while maintaining productivity, quality and safety throughout the manufacturing process.

The successful candidate will also be responsible for maintaining machinery, carrying out quality inspections, supporting continuous improvement initiatives and ensuring excellent housekeeping standards within the CNC department.

Key Objectives

• Operate CNC machinery safely and efficiently in accordance with company procedures.
• Manufacture components accurately from approved CNC programmes, production drawings and job documentation.
• Produce work to consistently high quality standards whilst meeting production deadlines.
• Maximise machine utilisation and minimise downtime.
• Carry out routine machine inspections, cleaning and preventative maintenance.
• Identify and report machine faults, tooling issues and programme errors promptly.
• Work collaboratively with the Design, CNC Programming, Bench Joinery and Production teams.
• Maintain a safe, clean and organised working environment.
• Support continuous improvement across manufacturing efficiency, machine utilisation and product quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC woodworking machinery in line with production schedules.
• Load and unload sheet materials and components safely.
• Select, install and manage the correct tooling for each machining operation.
• Read and interpret production drawings, cutting lists, machining documentation and works orders.
• Operate CNC programmes supplied by the programming team.
• Carry out machine set-up and undertake test runs where required.
• Monitor machining operations to ensure components are manufactured accurately.
• Measure finished components to verify compliance with drawings and specified tolerances.
• Identify machining defects and report tooling or programme issues promptly.
• Carry out daily machine cleaning and preventative maintenance checks.
• Replace cutters and tooling whilst following company tool management procedures.
• Maintain clear communication regarding production progress, machine performance and material requirements.
• Assist with the movement and storage of materials throughout the manufacturing department.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards within the CNC area.
• Comply with all Health & Safety policies, machine operating procedures and safe systems of work.
• Support colleagues across the manufacturing operation to ensure efficient project delivery.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by Management.

Skills & Experience

The successful candidate will ideally possess:

• Previous experience operating CNC woodworking machinery within a joinery, furniture or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Strong understanding of CNC tooling, machine set-up and machining processes.
• Excellent attention to detail with a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative production team.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of health, safety and housekeeping.

Experience programming CNC machinery (such as HOMAG 3 axis and 5 axis, Biesse or similar systems) would be advantageous.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary of £45,000 - £55,000, depending on experience.
• Monday to Friday working pattern.
• Stable, long-term opportunity with a growing bespoke manufacturing business.
• Opportunity to take ownership of CNC programming and digital manufacturing processes.
• Collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Work on premium bespoke residential and commercial projects.
• Genuine opportunity to make a direct impact on manufacturing performance and product quality.

How to Apply

This vacancy is being managed exclusively by Simon Acres Recruitment.

To apply, please send your CV together with a brief covering note to wendie@simonacres.co.uk or contact Wendie Brown on 07917 102482 for a confidential discussion.

Simon Acres Group Ltd acts as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.