Lathe & Press Operator; CAF Overhaul facility

Lathe & Press Operator (CAF UK, Overhaul facility, Manchester)

Apply for the Lathe & Press Operator (CAF UK, Overhaul facility, Manchester) role at CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles).

Innovation is in our DNA – we thrive on pushing boundaries and adapting to new challenges with a flexible approach. Proud to be a global leader, our fast‑paced growth provides exciting opportunities for our team and the community.

Committed to maintaining trains and trams, our mission is to enhance vehicle safety and reliability. Our ultimate goal is to deliver a comfortable, dependable, and sustainable commuting experience for all passengers.

Based out of multiple locations across the UK, our 24/7 operation means we’re always on hand to deliver reliable technical support. Utilising the latest digital technology, we strive to enhance dependability, helping people to get to where they need to be.

We wouldn’t be where we are without our people. Working together as a team, we strive to achieve great things while supporting each other to thrive along the way. We’re going places, so apply today and become part of our exciting journey.

• Positive work environment based on mutual respect and team spirit.
• Professional development – projects often span years or decades, giving you and the organisation a future.
• Learning and autonomy – you will be encouraged to work autonomously, proposing and deciding what and how.
• Security and reliability – CAF has been working for over 100 years, giving you the security you need.
• Cutting‑edge technology – you will work with the latest technologies, facing the challenge of devising innovative approaches and solutions every day.

The Lathe & Press Operator is responsible for machining axles, preparing wheel pans, and assembling wheelsets using precision equipment such as horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses, in accordance with CAF Rail UK overhaul procedures and quality standards.

This role ensures all machined and assembled wheelsets meet dimensional tolerances, alignment, and safety specifications, maintaining full compliance with CAF’s HSQE requirements.

• NVQ Level 3 or above in a relevant mechanical/electrical discipline.
• Proven experience operating precision CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses in a rail, aerospace, or heavy engineering environment.
• Skilled in machining axles and similar rotating components to tight dimensional tolerances and surface finish specifications.
• Competent in interpreting technical drawings, machining programmes, and measurement data sheets.
• Experience setting up, tooling, and maintaining CNC lathes for complex multi‑step operations.
• Proficient in using precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, dial test indicators, bore gauges, and surface finish testers.
• Familiar with wheelset assembly procedures, including pressing operations, alignment, and fit verification.
• Understanding of machine safety systems, risk assessments, and lock‑out/tag‑out practices.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain consistent quality, safety, and efficiency targets in a production environment.
• Strong attention and commitment to precision in all machining and pressing operations.
• Disciplined and safety‑conscious when operating heavy and automated equipment.
• Methodical and analytical approach to measurement, tolerances, and process control.
• Proactive in identifying issues or deviations and escalating promptly to supervision.
• Able to work independently on complex machining tasks while contributing effectively within a small production team.
• Organised and tidy work habits, maintaining high 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Adaptable and open to new technology, tooling methods, and process improvements.
• Committed to personal development, continuous improvement, and upholding CAF’s quality culture.

Real Living Wage employer and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, RSSB Mental Health Charter, and Women in Rail EDI Charter.

We offer a culture of inclusivity and belonging, with 25 days annual leave, an excellent workplace pension scheme with up to 10 % contribution from us, a generous health‑care cash plan, and a Bike2

Work scheme.

Professional sponsorship, flexible working, and a family‑friendly culture support career development and well‑being.

Paid volunteering days and social value initiatives such as tree‑planting and support for the homeless community and refugees help us create positive change.

• Seniority level:
  Entry level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Management and Manufacturing
• Industries:
  Motor Vehicle Manufacturing