Lead CNC Machinist; Turning

Vision Engineering Ltd The Freeman Building Send Woking Surrey GU23 7ER

Our Machine Shop team is based at our manufacturing base in Send, Woking and works closely with our Quality and Production departments to produce quality end‑products within set quality, tolerances and productivity time scales. We are seeking an experienced Lead CNC Machinist (Turning) who is hands‑on with programming, setting, and machining, while also providing technical leadership within the CNC Turning section.

This role suits someone who leads by example on the shop floor and takes ownership of quality, output, and continuous improvement. The Machine Shop operates Mazak, Siemens, and Fanuc controls, and the successful candidate will have a strong machining background, ideally within a mill‑turn environment. You will be part of a skilled team that takes pride in producing high‑quality components and will have opportunities to support new projects.

This position reports to the Group Machine Shop Manager.

• Program, set, and machine CNC turned and mill‑turn components to a high standard
• Act as technical lead within the CNC Turning section, supporting and guiding team members
• Prove programs, resolve machining issues, and support efficient job setups
• Plan and implement reliable machining processes for new and existing parts, including NPI
• Support daily production activities to meet delivery, quality, and efficiency targets
• Assist with workload planning, job prioritisation, and effective shift handovers
• Mentor less experienced machinists and promote best practice and skills development
• Machine a range of materials including aluminium, stainless steel, brass, and other alloys
• Use both online and offline programming methods
• Promote a strong quality culture and right‑first‑time manufacture
• Drive continuous improvement in productivity, tooling, and machining methods
• Liaise with Quality and Engineering departments to resolve technical and dimensional issues

This is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as required to meet the needs of the business.

• Strong experience with Mazak, Siemens, and Fanuc controls, including ISO programming
• Proven ability to program, set, and operate CNC turning and mill‑turn machines
• Recent experience with twin‑spindle and/or Y‑axis mill‑turn machines
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings accurately
• Natural leadership style with the ability to support and motivate others
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a practical, hands‑on approach
• Proactive mindset focused on productivity, quality, and continuous improvement
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Able to work independently while contributing to wider team objectives
• Previous experience as a senior machinist, lead machinist, or team leader is desirable

• Salary: £40,000 to £45,000 per annum depending on experience and background
• Overtime available when agreed and authorised in advance at 1.5 times basic salary
• Additional production bonus (variable but approx. 2% of basic salary payable monthly in arrears); linked to the value of goods invoiced from the UK factory base
• Aviva private pension scheme, in line with Government legislation and guidelines. Currently 5% employee contribution and 3% employer contribution
• 24 days holiday per annum (plus additional Bank Holidays)
• Benefits available on successful completion of a 6 month probationary period:
  • BUPA, private medical insurance with minimal, monthly contributions
  • Simply Health Optimise Plus Plan, non‑contributory cash back plan for claiming monies back for treatments
  • Group Life insurance (Death in Service scheme) equivalent to 2 years’ basic salary to next of kin
  • Sickness absence pay
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Administration of government childcare vouchers
  • Multi‑cultural feast day celebrations…