Lead CNC Programmer & Technical Mentor

Lead CNC Programmer & Technical Mentor

Full-Time | Permanent | Solihull | £20ph

We are delighted to be recruiting for an exciting opportunity for a Lead CNC Programmer & Technical Mentor to join an established manufacturing environment based in Solihull

This is a key role within the Machine Shop, combining highly skilled CNC Milling programming, setting and operating with the opportunity to mentor and support apprentices as they develop their practical engineering skills.

Reporting to the Machine Shop Supervisor, the successful candidate will play an important role in producing high-quality precision components, supporting efficient shop floor operations, troubleshooting manufacturing issues and ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.

The role would suit an experienced CNC Milling Programmer, Setter & Operator who has strong technical machining knowledge and is passionate about sharing their skills and developing the next generation of engineering talent.

As Lead CNC Programmer & Technical Mentor, you will be responsible for programming, setting and operating CNC Milling machinery to manufacture high-quality precision components in line with production, quality and safety standards.

Working from engineering drawings and technical specifications, you will work with a variety of materials and manufacturing processes, while also setting and operating manual machinery and using a wide range of hand tools.

A key element of the role will be supporting and mentoring apprentices and trainee setters, providing guidance and a safety net while allowing them to develop their own practical problem-solving skills and machining knowledge.

You will also contribute to a positive culture of safety, quality, precision, continuous improvement and professional development across the manufacturing environment.

• Program, set and operate CNC Milling machines to produce high-quality manufactured components safely, efficiently and within required timescales and tolerances.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications, working with a variety of materials and manufacturing processes.
• Supervise trainee setups, providing coaching, guidance and support while encouraging apprentices to develop practical problem-solving skills.
• Mentor and coach apprentices, transferring technical knowledge and sharing best practices to support their development.
• Set and operate manual machinery and use a wide variety of hand tools and measuring equipment.
• Apply appropriate milling feeds and speeds for different materials and ensure finished components meet all required specifications.
• Use Fanuc and Haas controllers, including G-code programming and modifications where required.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing and machining issues on the shop floor and support effective solutions to maintain production flow.
• Communicate effectively with CNC setters, operators, supervisors and the Manufacturing Manager to ensure smooth workflow and effective collaboration.
• Work independently and as part of a team, maintaining high standards of communication, quality and professionalism.
• Carry out total preventative maintenance activities and contribute to maintaining an efficient and well‑organised machining environment.
• Promote safe working practices and ensure the safety of yourself and others within the workshop.
• Support continuous improvement across productivity, safety and product quality, including reducing setup times and improving machining processes.
• Maintain 6S standards and contribute to a culture of innovation, collaboration, adaptability and delivery across the manufacturing environment.

• Experienced CNC Milling Programmer, Setter & Operator with strong practical machining knowledge.
• Excellen…