CNC Operator (First Shift) 1800

What is the job

As CNC Operator you will support the Machine Shop operation to provide precision machined components for production use. You will be required to operate the Matsuura MAM72 milling centre.

Working Hours: Monday to Thursday 6am to 2:30pm and Fridays 6am to 1pm

Department: Manufacturing Engineering

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting First stage: 1 hour Teams interview

Second stage: Onsite 3-hour interview

What we would like you to do/ to see

To predominantly load and run multi-pallet 5-axis milling centre(s) to produce precision in-house machined components for production use

When required load and operate a variety of CNC machines to support the Machine Shop operation including but not limited to 3 or 5-axis milling centres multi-pallet milling centres and Wire EDM

Ensure the CNC machines are scheduled and loaded to meet Kanban demand

Unload and process components where required including but not limited to deburring ultrasonic cleaning stress relieving rumbling and vapour honing

Assist the CNC Programmers to prove out and produce first-off production and prototype components

Ensure quality of components produced meets requirements by taking accurate measurements utilising the most appropriate inspection tools

Maintaining high levels of attention to detail at all times

Perform weekly machine maintenance and 5S tasks

Ensure that all machining activities are carried out in accordance with the companys safe working practices and environmental requirements

Support the team with process improvement initiatives for the various CNC machines and areas of responsibility

Who we are

Thorlabs is a global industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working

Ourpurpose-built facility isjust 12 miles from Cambridge within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us

Apprenticeship trained or similar experience considered

Minimum 3 years experience in a Machine Shop environment

A working knowledge of Fanuc based vertical milling machining centres

Experience working with micron level precision

Machine loading and operation experience

Basic understanding of engineering drawings

Knowledge of 5-axis milling and Wire EDM desirable but not essential

Knowledge of multi-pallet high mix low volume machining centres desirable but not essential

Must have a good attention to detail and ability to multitask

Ability to work in a team as well as independently

Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly

Adhering to core values and driven positive attitude

What will you get

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for in-house customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking free refreshments as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

And the benefits are

Competitive Salary to attract the best plus an excellent benefits package including pension health care 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference: THOR-VC-1800

This is a rolling campaign so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore if you are interested please submit your application as early as possible.

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

*This is a legal requirement further information is here School leaving age - ()

This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.

All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

-Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd 204 Lancaster Way Business Park Ely Cambs CB6 3NX or e-mail

We are Disability Confident Committed

In line with the requirements of the Immigration Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.