Experienced CNC Operator

Job Title: CNC Operator
Location: Newton-le-Willows, Haydock
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: 30,000- 35,000 + Bonus + Benfits

Summary

Due to continued growth, new market opportunities and sustained high workload in the CNC department, a manufacturing business in the wood-based products sector is looking to recruit additional CNC Operators for a new afternoon shift team. You will work on a range of modern Homag CNC machines, including the latest models with Air Tech functionality, helping to maintain commercially attractive lead times while delivering high-quality products safely and efficiently.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong CNC experience who enjoys problem-solving, continuous improvement and working with advanced machinery.

Key Responsibilities

• Select the correct CNC programme from the job sheet and set the machine and tooling according to programme parameters.
• Check and verify CNC programmes and make any necessary corrective adjustments.
• Set up tooling, including entering tool dimensions into the tool database.
• Proactively identify and implement efficiency and quality improvements where possible.
• Ensure products meet quality, dimensional and tolerance specifications, reporting any non-conformances immediately.
• Carry out safety and emergency stop checks before starting production.
• Log all production activities accurately on the WiPS or similar production system.
• Complete daily compliance documentation, including safety and quality checks.
• Report any health and safety issues, accidents, incidents or near misses promptly.
• Identify and report machine faults or defects to the CNC Supervisor and maintenance team.
• Promote and follow a strong health and safety culture at all times, including correct use of PPE.
• Maintain a tidy, safe, well-organised and well-maintained work area.
• Comply with all site rules, standard operating procedures and general house rules.
• Communicate effectively with the CNC Supervisor and colleagues in the CNC and wider production teams.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as a CNC Operator, ideally in a wood machining, joinery, furniture or panel processing environment.
• Working knowledge of the latest WoodWOP software.
• Confident in selecting, verifying and adjusting CNC programmes.
• Able to read and understand CAD drawings.
• Strong focus on working safely and efficiently in a production environment.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage workload in line with production targets.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Awareness of health and safety requirements and safe systems of work.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with Homag CNC machines, including multi-head or high-spec models.
• Experience of 5-axis CNC machining.
• Experience of 5S or other lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proactive, enthusiastic and committed approach to work.
• Reliable, punctual and cooperative, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Confident communicator who can raise issues and suggest improvements constructively.