CNC 5-Axis Programmer, Setter & Operator

CNC 5-Axis Programmer, Setter & Operator High Precision Manufacturing | Pontypool, South Wales

Salary: £22 per hour

Working Hours: 39 hours per week, with flexible working hours between 6.00am and 5.00pm and an early finish on Fridays

The Opportunity I am currently recruiting for an experienced CNC 5-Axis Programmer, Setter & Operator to join an established precision engineering and manufacturing business based in Pontypool, South Wales.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically skilled CNC professional with a strong background in complex multi-axis machining and the manufacture of high-precision, tight-tolerance components.

The successful candidate will take ownership of the machining process from offline programming and process development through to machine setting, prove-out, production and continuous improvement. You will play a key role in ensuring components are manufactured to exacting standards, whilst improving machining efficiency, reliability and overall performance.

I am keen to speak with candidates who combine advanced programming knowledge with a practical, hands‑on approach to setting and operating 5-axis CNC machining centres.

Key Responsibilities

CNC Programming & Process Development

• Develop, program and optimise 5-axis CNC machining programmes using CAM software.




• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models and GD&T specifications.




• Select appropriate cutting strategies, tooling and machining parameters for a range of materials.




• Generate collision‑free toolpaths and simulate machine kinematics to ensure safe and efficient machining.




• Edit and optimise G‑code directly at the machine where required.




• Develop machining processes for complex, high‑precision components.

Machine Setting & Setup

• Carry out complete CNC machine setups, including workholding, fixture selection, tooling, presetting, offsets, datum setting and probing routines.




• Configure machines for simultaneous 5-axis and 3+2 positional machining.




• Prove out programmes and ensure repeatable, stable and reliable machining processes.




• Ensure machines are correctly prepared for efficient and accurate production.

CNC Operation & Production

• Set and operate 5-axis CNC machining centres to manufacture precision‑engineered components.




• Carry out first-off inspections and validate component conformity against engineering drawings and specifications.




• Monitor machining processes to maintain tight tolerances and required surface finishes.




• Identify, troubleshoot and resolve machining issues to minimise downtime and scrap.




• Maintain high standards of workmanship, safety and housekeeping.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve cycle times, tool life and machining efficiency.




• Implement best‑practice machining techniques and contribute to lean manufacturing initiatives.




• Support the standardisation of machining processes and the maintenance of technical documentation.




• Assist with the introduction of new products, from prototype development through to production.




• Work collaboratively with engineering and quality teams to resolve technical challenges and improve manufacturing performance.

Quality & Compliance

• Manufacture components in line with strict dimensional tolerances and quality requirements.




• Use appropriate precision measurement and inspection equipment to verify component conformity.




• Maintain accurate production and quality records.




• Ensure compliance with company procedures, engineering specifications and applicable ISO quality standards.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in CNC 5-axis programming, setting and operation within a precision engineering or high-precision manufacturing environment.




• Advanced knowledge of CAM programming software and the ability to develop and optimise complex machining programmes.




• Strong understanding of multi‑axis machining strategies, tooling technologies and cutting dynamics.




• Experience machining a variety of materials and selecting appropriate tooling and cutting parameters.




• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models and GD&T specifications.




• Experience manufacturing high-precision, tight-tolerance components.




• Knowledge of workholding, fixturing, probing, datum setting and machine offsets.




• Ability to prove out programmes, edit G-code and troubleshoot machining issues independently.




• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and continuous improvement skills.




• A proactive, methodical approach with the ability to work independently and take ownership of the machining process.




• Highly desirable: Experience working with Mazak CNC milling machines or similar CNC machining equipment.

What’s on Offer?

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.




• 34 days’ annual holiday (including 8 Bank Holidays)




• Flexible working hours between 6.00am and 5.00pm.




• Early finish on Fridays.




• Simplyhealth benefits.




• Employee Assistance Programme.




• Company pension scheme.




• Free on-site parking.




• The opportunity to work on complex, high-precision engineering projects within a specialist manufacturing environment.

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