Fabrication Technician

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Programme, set and operate 3-axis CNC milling machines to manufacture precision optical components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and manufacturing documentation accurately.
• Manufacture components to micron-level tolerances and required surface finish standards.
• Set machine tooling, offsets and work-holding arrangements prior to production.
• Produce first-off components and perform in-process inspections to ensure conformity.
• Inspect finished components using CMMs and other precision measurement equipment.
• Clean components using approved processes while maintaining strict cleanliness requirements.
• Carry out visual and surface inspections in accordance with applicable standards.
• Identify defects, contamination, damage, chips, scratches or other non-conformances and escalate where necessary.
• Complete production documentation, process sheets and inspection records accurately.
• Maintain full traceability throughout the manufacturing process.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and approved manufacturing processes.
• Understand and support Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) activities to ensure equipment reliability.
• Maintain a clean, organised and controlled working environment.
• Handle delicate and high-value optical materials with care throughout manufacture and inspection.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues while also being capable of working independently.
• Prioritise workload effectively to meet production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
• Identify and support opportunities for continuous improvement in safety, quality, efficiency and repeatability.
• Report equipment issues, tooling concerns, quality issues and process abnormalities promptly.
• Comply with all company Health & Safety, Quality and Environmental procedures.

Key Relationships

Working Environment

Physical Requirements

• The role involves supporting the day-to-day operation of the fabrication area, including moving materials and optical components between departments. Regular lifting of items in excess of 5kg may be required.
• Reasonable adjustments may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience programming, setting and operating 3-axis CNC milling machines.
• Experience manufacturing precision components to tight dimensional tolerances.
• Experience working to micron-level tolerances.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Experience using precision measurement and inspection equipment.
• Good understanding of machining principles, tooling and cutting parameters.
• Experience working with SOPs, process sheets and controlled manufacturing documentation.
• Understanding of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.
• High level of manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Excellent attention to detail and quality standards.
• Ability to work accurately with small and delicate components.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Strong team-working skills.
• Commitment to quality and right-first-time manufacturing.
• Good understanding of Health & Safety requirements within a manufacturing environment.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience programming, setting or operating 5-axis CNC machinery.
• Previous experience within precision engineering, optics manufacturing or a similarly controlled production environment.
• Experience machining infrared optical materials or other brittle and specialist materials.
• Experience using Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
• Knowledge of optical surface inspection and cleanliness requirements.
• Understanding of ISO and DIN standards relating to optical components and surface quality.
• Experience using CNC programming software and CAM systems.
• Experience machining non-metallic, specialist or brittle materials to tight tolerances.
• Experience supporting Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement activities.
• Understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC), process capability and quality control techniques.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Shift allowance
• Performance bonus scheme
• Healthcare scheme
• On-site employee benefits
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunities for training and development

Why Join Us?