Cnc Programmer/machinist

Interaction Engineering 

5-Axis CNC Programmer / Machinist(contract)

Location: Chatteris, Cambridgeshire
Contract: Initially 2 months, with potential to extend up to 6 months
Start: Early October
Rate: Competitive – DOE

We’re currently recruiting for an experienced 5-Axis CNC Programmer / Machinist to support a leading engineering business operating within the aerospace and defence sectors.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled CNC professional with strong PowerMill and PowerShape experience, who can hit the ground running in a precision engineering environment.

The Role

You’ll be responsible for offline 5-axis programming, CNC machine setting and operation, as well as supporting the development and optimisation of machining processes.

Key responsibilities will include:

Creating and developing robust 5-axis CNC programming strategies

Programming using Autodesk PowerMill and PowerShape

Creating models and manipulating CAD data from CATIA

Setting and operating 5-axis CNC machinery

Creating OMV programmes and probing cycles

Proving out first-off programmes and ensuring parts are production-ready

Optimising toolpaths to improve machining efficiency and accuracy

Troubleshooting and resolving programming and machining issues

Producing clear and accurate operator instructions

Supporting fixture design and identifying potential improvements

Creating inspection instructions and supporting quality requirements

Managing tooling requirements and liaising with tooling suppliers

Monitoring machine utilisation and departmental efficiency

Developing SOPs and improving CNC processes

Supporting shop-floor teams to ensure efficient manufacture in line with design requirements

Essential Experience

We’re looking for someone with:

Strong CNC programming experience, particularly 5-axis

Excellent knowledge of PowerMill and PowerShape

Experience creating/manipulating CAD data from CATIA

Previous setting and operating experience

Experience with FANUC and/or HEIDENHAIN CNC controls

Ability to read and interpret technical engineering drawings

Strong process improvement and problem-solving skills

Experience working within a precision engineering environment

Excellent attention to detail and a structured, methodical approach

Strong communication and organisational skills

A mechanical engineering/trade qualification or 5+ years' relevant experience

Desirable

Aerospace and/or defence experience

Programme/project management experience

Supplier-facing experience

Hands-on composites experience

Contract Details

Initial 2-month contract, with the potential to extend to 6 months, subject to business requirements.

Provisional start: Early October, depending on candidate availability.

If you're an experienced 5-Axis CNC Programmer/Machinist with strong PowerMill/PowerShape skills and are available for contract work, we'd be keen to hear from you.

Apply now or get in touch for further details, including the rate and full contract information at

INDTE
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed