Lathe and Press Operator

Location:
Manchester

Are you an experienced Lathe & Press Operator looking for your next challenge? A leading client in the Rail Rolling Stock Industry based in Manchester is recruiting for a skilled engineering professional to join their team, working with specialist machinery to support the overhaul and assembly of rail wheelsets.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced machinist to utilise their technical skills in a precision engineering environment where quality, safety and attention to detail are essential.

As a Lathe & Press Operator, you will be responsible for precision machining, axle preparation and wheelset assembly, ensuring all components meet strict engineering specifications and quality standards.

• Operating CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses.
• Machining axles and assembling wheelsets to precise tolerances.
• Setting up machinery, selecting tooling and interpreting engineering drawings.
• Carrying out quality inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Supporting brake disc fitting, bearing installation and wheelset build activities.
• Recording inspection results and maintaining accurate quality documentation.
• Following health and safety procedures and maintaining a safe working environment.
• Performing routine equipment checks and supporting continuous improvement activities.

• NVQ Level 3 or above in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Proven experience operating CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses.
• Experience in rail, aerospace or heavy engineering environments.
• Strong knowledge of precision machining, engineering drawings and dimensional tolerances.
• Competence using micrometres, dial test indicators, bore gauges and other precision measuring equipment.
• An understanding of wheelset assembly, pressing operations and machinery safety.
• A proactive, quality-focused approach with excellent attention to detail.

• The opportunity to work with specialist machinery in a precision engineering environment.
• A key role supporting the safety and reliability of rail vehicles.
• The chance to develop your technical expertise within a skilled engineering team.
• Employment with a Real Living Wage Employer.

If you have experience in precision machining and wheelset assembly and are looking for your next opportunity, we want to hear from you!