CNC Programmer - FTC

About the role

Create, validate, maintain, and optimise safe, accurate CNC programs for composite machining processes at the McLaren Composite Technology Centre. The role converts CAD models into efficient, machine‑ready toolpaths that achieve the required quality, dimensional accuracy, surface finish, cycle time, and tool life.

Responsibilities

• Create, edit, and optimise CNC programs and multi‑axis toolpaths using approved CAD/CAM software.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, tolerances, datum structures, material specifications, and surface‑finish requirements to define appropriate machining strategies.
• Select cutting tools, holders, machining parameters, work offsets, probing routines, and safe machining sequences.
• Post‑process, simulate, and verify programs to identify collisions, over‑travel, gouging, and other machining risks before release.
• Support program prove‑out and first‑off manufacture, analyse measured results, and revise programs until requirements are achieved.
• Optimise toolpaths, feeds, speeds, stepovers, and machining sequences to improve cycle time, tool life, quality, and process reliability.
• Create and maintain controlled CNC programming documentation, including program files, setup sheets, tooling lists, work offsets, revision records, and machining instructions.
• Troubleshoot CNC program and toolpath issues, implementing robust programming corrections where required.
• Maintain approved program libraries, naming conventions, revision control, and data integrity.
• Contribute to the standardisation and continuous development of CNC programming methods, templates, post‑processors, and best practice.

Functional / Technical Skills

• Proven experience creating and optimising CNC programs in a production machining environment.
• High proficiency in at least one recognised CAD/CAM package; experience with Mastercam and PowerMill is advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of multi‑axis CNC machining, including 5‑axis equipment.
• Experience programming CNC machining of composite materials is highly advantageous.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, geometric tolerances, datum structures, and surface‑finish requirements.
• Sound understanding of cutting tools, tool holding, workholding, probing, offsets, feeds, speeds, depths of cut, and machining strategy.
• Experience using simulation and verification software such as VERICUT to produce safe, collision‑free programs.
• Working knowledge of G‑code, M‑code, post‑processors, and relevant CNC machine controls.
• Experience preparing clear setup sheets, tooling lists, program notes, and revision‑controlled programming records.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with a methodical approach to program prove‑out, correction, and optimisation.
• Excellent IT proficiency and disciplined management of CNC program data.

Personal Attributes / Competencies

• Self‑motivated and capable of working effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Adaptable to a dynamic and fast‑paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective in influencing, negotiating, and resolving conflicts.
• Flexible and open‑minded approach to tasks and responsibilities.

Benefits

• Structured career development framework
• 25 days’ holiday, plus bank holidays
• Annual buy & sell of up to five days
• Enhanced company pension scheme
• Discretionary annual bonus award
• Private medical insurance and health cash plan
• Life assurance benefit
• Ability to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ service
• Discounted shopping options
• Generous parental leave policies
• Wellbeing initiatives, including employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice

Who We Are

McLaren Automotive exists to create breath‑taking performance road cars. We are a diverse community of experts united by a passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks. We commit to equal opportunity, diversity, equality, and inclusion, believing they drive our innovation and enable us to create something special.