CNC Operator (MBs, Second Shift) - 1480
| Posting date: | 30 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 30 October 2025 |
| Location: | Ely, Cambridgeshire |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | Thorlabs Ltd |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | THOR-VC-1480 |
Summary
What is the job?
As a CNC Machine Operator, you will be very much ‘hands on’ in this physical role, working as part of the production team, expressing a can-do attitude and eye for quality. Your core responsibility will be to run our Milltronics XYZ, Haas VF6SS, Hartford Blockbuster PRO3150 and (incoming) Hartford Sword SW523 drilling machines (full training will be provided), processing sheet materials, as part of the Optical Tables Business Unit.
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday 2:35pm to 11:05pm and Fridays 1:05pm to 8:05pm
Department: MB’s Tables
Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 30 minute Teams interview
Second stage: OnSite 1 hour interview
What is essential to us…
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment
• Experience operating Fanuc CNC machinery would be desirable, however any CNC experience would be useful but not essential
• Ability to interpret and follow Standard Operating Procedures
• High level of mechanical aptitude and practical skill is desired
• A practical ‘hands on’ approach
• High level of attention to detail and the ability to maintain focus
• Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly
• Proven ability to work in a team environment
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Adhering to core values
• Positive contribution to multi-departmental initiatives
What we would like you to do/ to see…
• Work within an allocated team to achieve scheduled manufacturing targets
• You will be trained and developed to operate our drilling/tapping machines
• Maintain high levels of attention to detail at all times, recording and communicating accurate technical measurements and readings
• Communicate product status accurately via the production control system and associated paperwork
• Support Team Leaders in the development and implementation of workplace programs
• Participate in cross-training to increase knowledge and experience of the Tables Business Unit
• Support and drive problem solving and quality/performance improvement
Who we are?
Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.
Where you will be working?
Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.
What will you get?
At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.
And the benefits are?
Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
Job Reference: THOR-VC-1480
This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.
*This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.
We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.