Senior 5-Axis CNC Machinist; Technical Lead Level

Position: Senior 5-Axis CNC Machinist (Technical Lead Level)
Location: Ampthill

Senior 5-Axis CNC Machinist (Technical Lead Level)
Senior CNC Machinist – 5 Axis Milling (Defence Engineering)
Ampthill, Bedfordshire | Permanent | 4 Day Week (Mon–Thurs) | £42,550
We are recruiting on behalf of a specialist UK defence engineering organisation for a Senior CNC Machinist to join a precision machining facility supporting complex, low-volume programmes.
This is a hands-on technical role within a small, highly skilled team environment. It would suit an experienced 5-axis machinist who enjoys machining challenging, high-value components and wants to operate at a senior level within the cell.
The Environment
You’ll be working with:
 
* Matsuura, Hurco and Correa machining centres
 
* 3–6 axis capability (strong bias toward 5-axis milling)
 
* Fanuc and Heidenhain controls
 
* One-off and low-volume complex components
 
* High-value defence hardware
This is not production-line machining — it’s precision R&D and advanced engineering.

The Role
 
* Program, set and prove-out multi-axis CNC machines
 
* Optimise tooling and machining strategies
 
* Manufacture complex, high-spec components
 
* Support continuous improvement initiatives
 
* Provide technical guidance and support within the team
You’ll act as a senior technical presence on the shop floor, contributing to safe, efficient and high-quality operations.
Requirements
 
* Strong 5-axis CNC milling experience
 
* Fanuc and/or Heidenhain programming
 
* Experience machining complex, low-volume components
 
* Background in aerospace, defence or advanced precision engineering
 
* Active SC clearance (or recently lapsed and eligible for reactivation)
 
* Must be eligible to obtain DV clearance
What’s on Offer
 
* 4 day working week
 
* Long-term programme stability
 
* Advanced engineering environment
 
* Permanent position within a secure defence setting
If you are currently SC cleared and looking for a technically challenging senior machining role, we would welcome a confidential discussion