CNC Automation Cell Setter (Milling Bias)

Job Definition

The CNC Automation Cell Setter is to support and optimize automated manufacturing cells within a plastics manufacturing environment. The CNC Automation Cell Setter will be responsible for setting and optimizing primarily 3 and 5 axis machining centres and associated robotic automation systems to ensure safe, efficient, and uninterrupted production. This role involves machine setup, tooling changes, robot teaching and adjustment, fault finding, and supporting continuous improvement activities within automated machining cells.

Responsibilities

• Set and prepare CNC machines for production runs.

• Set tooling, fixtures, work offsets, and machine parameters.

• Configure and adjust robotic loading and unloading systems.

• Teach and modify robot positions and programs as required.

• Carry out first-off inspections and ensure components meet specifications.

• Monitor automated cells and resolve machine or robot stoppages.

• Troubleshoot and rectify production issues involving CNC machines, robots, grippers, sensors, and fixtures.

• Optimise cycle times and improve machine utilisation.

• Conduct tool changes and monitor tool life management systems.

• Complete production and quality documentation accurately.

• Support preventative maintenance activities on CNC and automation equipment.

• Work closely with engineering, quality, and maintenance teams to improve manufacturing processes.

• Ensure all activities comply with health, safety, and quality standards.

  Essential Requirements

• Proven experience as a CNC Setter within a manufacturing environment.

• HNC in manufacturing or engineering discipline.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

• Experience setting up CNC machining centres and/or CNC lathes.

• Good understanding of tooling, fixtures, feeds, and speeds.

• Competence using precision measuring equipment.

• Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience working with automated machining cells.

• Experience with 4-axis and 5-axis machining.

• Experience teaching or setting industrial robots (Fanuc, Hydrafeed or similar).

• Knowledge of robotic loading and unloading systems.

• Basic CNC program editing experience.

• Understanding of PLC-controlled automation systems.

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement techniques.

• Experience working in high-volume automotive, aerospace, or precision engineering environments.

Key Skills

• CNC Machine Setting

• Robotic Cell Setup

• Robot Teaching

• Automation Troubleshooting

• Tooling and Fixture Setup

• Quality Inspection

• Technical Drawing Interpretation

• Process Improvement

• Problem Solving

• Team Working

Personal Attributes

• Strong technical and analytical capability

• Hands-on approach to problem solving

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to work cross-functionally with Production and Tooling teams

• Proactive and continuous improvement focused

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

What we offer

• Salary is depending on experience

• Company Pension Scheme

• Increasing annual leave with length of service, plus 8 bank holidays

• Factory shut down at Christmas

• Free on site parking

• Vision Reimbursement

• Opportunity for personal and professional development

Hours of work are Monday to Thursday 7:50am - 16:20pm and Friday 8:00am - 15:30pm