Senior CNC Programmer / Setter

Job Title: Senior CNC Programmer / Setter
Department: Manufacturing / Operations
Reports To: Production Manager / Engineering Manager
Location: Mayo - Ireland

Role Purpose
To program, set, and run Star Multi Axis sliding head CNC lathes, producing high-precision components efficiently and consistently. The role requires an experienced machinist capable of independent setup, prove-out, and production running.
This is a hands-on, senior-level role for a candidate who can take ownership of jobs from drawing to finished part with minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Machining

• Program, set, and run Fanuc control Star Multi Axis sliding head lathes producing high precision components efficiently and consistently (primary responsibility)
• Independently set up new and repeat jobs, including tooling, offsets and prove-out
• Optimize cycle times, tool life, and machining strategies
• Develop setup sheets for new part setups.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and implement corrective actions quickly

CAM & Programming

• Create and edit CNC programs using CAD/CAM (strong advantage)
• Perform manual program edits at the machine where required
• Ensure programs are safe, efficient, and optimized for production
• Maintain and improve existing programs and setup documentation

Quality & Process Control

• Read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
• Carry out in-process inspection using CMM and general inspection equipment
• Ensure components meet dimensional, visual, and surface finish requirements
• Support first-article inspection and ongoing process capability

Manufacturing Support

• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams
• Support continuous improvement initiatives
• Maintain high housekeeping, safety, and tool control standards
• Mentor junior machinists where required

Required Experience & Skills
Essential

• 5+ years' experience as a CNC Programmer / Setter / Machinist
• Strong, hands-on experience with Star Multi Axis sliding head CNC lathes
• Proven ability to program, set, and run parts independently
• Excellent understanding of turning, milling, and sliding head machining principles
• Strong ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T
• Experience machining tight-tolerance precision components
• Confident working with minimal supervision

Highly Desirable

• Strong working knowledge of CAD/CAM
• Experience machining medical, orthopaedic, aerospace, or high-precision components
• Experience with complex, multi-operation parts
• Tooling optimization and process improvement experience

Qualifications / Background

• Time-served machinist apprenticeship or equivalent practical experience
• Formal CNC or precision engineering qualification advantageous but experience is key
• Strong understanding of modern CNC controls and machining strategies

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