Manufacturing Engineer Machining Lead

Manufacturing Engineer – Machining Lead Salary: Up to £70,000 Location: Ampthill Clearance: SC required to start Sector: Defence | Aerospace

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer – Machining Lead to lead CNC machining strategy and advanced tooling initiatives within the Operations Engineering department.

You will drive machining efficiency, reduce cycle times and improve quality while supporting the manufacture of high-precision components

Working closely with Engineering, Production and Quality teams, you will develop robust machining processes and own the machining technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with business requirements and emerging industry technologies.

This is a technical leadership role requiring strong expertise in multi-axis CNC machining, programming, tooling and process optimisation. This position requires extensive expertise in multi-axis machining, CNC programming, CAD/CAM, CNC turning, advanced work holding solutions and manufacturing process optimisation, alongside the ability to lead engineers and technicians.

Key Responsibilities

Lead CNC machining strategy and own the machining technology roadmap. Develop, optimise and validate CNC programmes for 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis machining centres, including standard and mill-turn lathes. Optimise tooling, cutting parameters, fixtures and workholding solutions. Drive improvements in cycle times, tool life, productivity and machining quality. Support NPI activities through Design for Manufacture (DFM). Troubleshoot complex machining issues and implement corrective actions. Establish standardised machining processes and lead continuous improvement initiatives. Support new machinery, tooling and automation technology implementation. Maintain manufacturing documentation and ensure compliance with quality, health, safety and environmental standards. Provide technical leadership to engineers and technicians. Required Qualifications and Experience A minimum of five years' experience within a CNC manufacturing or precision machining environment. Demonstrable mastery of 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC programming and machining processes. Expert-level proficiency in hyperMILL CAM software. Strong understanding of CNC machining strategies for complex geometries and tight-tolerance components. In-depth knowledge of metallurgy, material machinability, cutting tool technology, feeds and speeds optimisation, and chip control. Experience with CNC turning and mill-turn lathes. Proven track record of improving machining efficiency, tool life and dimensional accuracy. Experience in high-precision or low-volume, high-complexity manufacturing. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, root cause analysis and continuous improvement. Previous experience leading a team of engineers and technicians. A degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering or a related discipline. Desirable Experience Experience within aerospace, defence, motorsport, semiconductors, energy or other high-precision industries. Knowledge of automation, robotic tending, palletisation and lights-out machining strategies. Familiarity with cutting tool management systems and digital manufacturing initiatives. Exposure to additive manufacturing and hybrid manufacturing technologies. Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification. Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and process capability analysis. Experience machining exotic alloys and challenging materials, including titanium, Inconel, stainless steels and hardened materials