CNC Setter/Operator – £30k-£35k, Southend-on-Sea

About the role

We are seeking an experienced CNC Setter/Operator to join a leading engineering company in Southend‑on‑Sea. This permanent position works Monday to Thursday with weekends off and includes full training to develop grinding skills.

Key responsibilities

• Set up and run CNC machines safely and efficiently.
• Operate second‑operation equipment such as thread‑rolling machines, part markers, drill banks, depitching presses, torque testers and deburrers.
• Read and measure components using micrometres to tight tolerances.
• Perform first‑off and ongoing inspection of machined parts.
• Maintain machine efficiency to meet on‑time delivery, parts‑per‑hour and KPI targets.
• Produce quality products in line with agreed standards and procedures.
• Complete daily maintenance check sheets and record cycle times.

Required profile

• Minimum 2 years experience setting and running CNC and manual machines.
• Confident interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Experience in the aerospace or defence industry is essential.
• Own transport and a valid driver’s licence due to the site location.

Required skills

• CNC machine operation
• Manual machining
• Engineering drawing interpretation
• Micrometer measurement
• Grinding (training provided)
• Thread‑rolling operation
• Part marking
• Drill bank operation
• Depitching press operation
• Torque testing
• Deburring
• First‑off inspection
• KPI monitoring

What we offer

• Salary £30,000‑£35,000 per annum
• Permanent contract
• Monday‑Thursday schedule (weekends off)
• Full training on grinding and additional equipment
• Opportunity to work within aerospace and defence sectors