Junior CNC Spring Maker

Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator required for a specialist precision manufacturing company based in the Keighley, West Yorkshire area.

This position is responsible for learning the manufacture of precision springs, wire forms and pressings using CNC spring-making machinery. The successful candidate will receive structured training with the opportunity to progress into a fully skilled CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.

The company is also open to considering Engineering graduates or college leavers. Graduate candidates may initially support the installation and implementation of a new automated Keyence vision inspection system , before progressing into the CNC Spring Maker role through an accelerated training programme.

Duties and responsibilities include assisting with CNC machine set-up, learning machine programming and operation, carrying out quality inspections, supporting production activities and ensuring products are manufactured safely, efficiently and to customer specification.

Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator - Job Overview

• Assist with the set-up of CNC spring-making and bench machinery ready for production.
• Learn to operate CNC machinery safely and efficiently to manufacture springs, wire forms and pressings.
• Support experienced Machine Setters with machine changeovers, tooling and production set-ups.
• Monitor production output to ensure components meet customer specifications and delivery schedules.
• Carry out quality inspections using measuring equipment including verniers, gauges and 3D vision inspection systems.
• Record production and quality data accurately on works orders and inspection documentation.
• Assist with routine machine maintenance and basic fault finding under supervision.
• Support continuous improvement activities across the manufacturing department.
• Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
• Follow all company Quality, Health & Safety and Environmental procedures.
• For graduate engineers, initially assist with the installation, testing and implementation of a new Keyence automated camera inspection system before progressing into CNC machine setting responsibilities.
• Work closely with Production, Quality and Engineering teams to ensure efficient manufacturing operations.
• Progress through structured training towards becoming a fully competent CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.

Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator - Job Requirements

• Engineering qualification preferred (Degree, HNC/HND, BTEC or equivalent) although college leavers will also be considered.
• Genuine interest in manufacturing, mechanical engineering or CNC machinery.
• Strong willingness to learn new technical skills.
• Good mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving ability.
• Basic understanding of engineering drawings would be advantageous.
• Good mathematical ability and attention to detail.
• Ability to work accurately whilst following written procedures.
• Positive attitude with a strong work ethic.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a manufacturing team.
• Reliable, punctual and self-motivated.

Desirable

• Mechanical Engineering Degree or similar.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Experience using measuring equipment such as Verniers or Micrometers.
• CAD or engineering software experience.
• Experience of production or manufacturing environments.
• Understanding of quality inspection processes.
• Exposure to automation or machine vision systems (particularly Keyence) would be advantageous but is not essential.

Qualifications

• Engineering Degree, HNC/HND, BTEC Level 3 or equivalent preferred.
• College leavers with a genuine interest in engineering are encouraged to apply.
• GCSE Mathematics and English (or equivalent).
• Full UK Driving Licence beneficial but not essential.

Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator - Salary & Benefits

Salary: £20,000 - £35,000 (DOE & Qualifications) (Will consider unqualified, graduate or experienced)

Hours: Monday-Friday, 34-37 hours per week (Flexible working hours available, annual hours contract)

Employment Type: Permanent

• Full-Time Permanent Position
• Structured training programme
• Fast-track development into CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker
• Opportunity to work with specialist CNC spring manufacturing equipment
• Involvement in the installation of new automated inspection technology
• Company Pension Scheme
• Holiday entitlement
• Stable, well-established manufacturing business
• Long-term career progression within engineering and manufacturing

Apprentice CNC Machine Setter / Operator - Key Success Measures

• Successful completion of structured training programme.
• Safe and efficient operation of CNC spring-making machinery.
• Consistent production of components to customer specification.
• Accurate completion of production and quality documentation.
• High standards of quality, accuracy and attention to detail.
• Positive contribution to production targets and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Successful progression towards becoming a fully competent CNC Machine Setter / Spring Maker.
• For graduate candidates, successful support and implementation of the Keyence vision inspection system.

Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.