CNC Programmer

CNC Programmer Location: Northamptonshire
Salary: £50,000 £55,000
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08 30
Contract Type: Permanent
We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to join a high-performance Pattern Shop supporting elite-level motorsport and advanced composite manufacturing. This role is ideal for someone with strong CNC programming expertise, hands-on pattern shop experience, and a background working with composite tooling, moulds, and precision components.
The successful candidate will play a key role in producing high-accuracy patterns and tooling used across complex composite structures. You will be responsible for programming multi-axis CNC machines, improving machining processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and precision.
Key Responsibilities

• Create, develop, and optimise CNC programs for multi-axis machining of patterns, moulds, jigs, and composite tooling components
  
• Work closely with engineers, pattern makers, and composites teams to deliver tooling to exact specifications
  
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, assemblies, and CAD models with a high level of accuracy
  
• Select appropriate tooling, feeds, and speeds for composite and pattern-making materials including Rohacell, modelling board, carbon tooling blocks, and similar substrates
  
• Ensure components meet strict dimensional, surface finish, and structural requirements
  
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance machining efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability
  
• Oversee machining operations from programming through to completion, ensuring safe and efficient workflow
  
• Collaborate with downstream manufacturing teams to align machining with next-stage processes such as trimming, laminating, or assembly
  
• Assist in maintaining machining records, tool libraries, setup sheets, and quality documentation
  
• Troubleshoot machining issues and provide proactive solutions to minimise downtime
  

Experience & Skills Required

• Proven experience working in a Pattern Shop or similar precision manufacturing environment
  
• Strong CNC programming capability, ideally with multi-axis machines used for pattern and tooling manufacture
  
• Previous experience within motorsport, automotive, aerospace, or high-performance engineering (F1 or similar backgrounds highly advantageous)
  
• Ability to interpret and work from complex engineering drawings, CAD data, and assemblies
  
• Experience machining composite tooling materials, moulds, jigs, fixtures, and/or Rohacell
  
• Understanding of downstream composite processes (e.g. lay-up, trimming, autoclave tooling, assembly)
  
• Demonstrable track record of improving CNC programs for efficiency, quality, and accuracy
  
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving capability, and commitment to high standards
  

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