Senior 5-Axis CNC Machinist; Technical Lead Level

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.