Job Title: Lead CNC Programmer
Location: Midlands

The Opportunity

Cooper Lomaz are working in partnership with a highly regarded manufacturing business in the Midlands, who are looking to appoint a Lead CNC Programmer to play a key role in their production function.

This position will suit an experienced CNC professional who enjoys both hands-on programming and taking ownership of workflow optimisation, process improvement, and cross-department collaboration. You’ll act as the central link between design, estimating, and workshop teams, ensuring CNC operations run efficiently and deliver consistently high-quality output.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, refine, and optimise CNC programmes for multi-axis machinery (3-axis and 5-axis).
• Determine the most effective machining strategies, including tooling, feeds, speeds, and material utilisation.
• Coordinate CNC production schedules alongside workshop and project teams.
• Review technical drawings and provide feedback to improve manufacturability and efficiency.
• Produce and manage accurate technical documentation, including drawings, works orders, and programme data.
• Support estimating and project teams with advice on CNC processes, costs, and feasibility.
• Monitor output quality and implement continuous improvements to machining processes.
• Research and introduce new tooling, materials, and programming techniques to enhance production capability.
• Identify maintenance requirements and support the ongoing reliability of CNC equipment.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in CNC programming (minimum 3 years), ideally within a joinery or manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of both 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines.
• Experience using CAD/CAM software such as AutoCAD and 3D packages (e.g. SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Rhino or similar).
• Ability to interpret and work from detailed 2D and 3D technical drawings.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes within furniture, joinery, or a similar sector.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Desirable Experience

• Familiarity with specific CNC machinery platforms and associated software.
• Knowledge of a range of materials including solid timber, veneers, and engineered boards.
• Previous hands-on experience within a workshop or production environment.

Operational & Leadership Responsibilities

• Plan and prioritise CNC workload in collaboration with production and project teams.
• Provide clear direction and support to CNC operators and technical staff.
• Ensure all CNC-related documentation is accurate, structured, and easily accessible.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across CNC processes and production methods.
• Maintain consistent quality standards across all machined components.
• Promote effective communication between departments to minimise errors and delays.

Standards & Compliance

• Adhere to all health & safety regulations and contribute to a safe working environment.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient workspace.
• Uphold professional standards in conduct and presentation.
• Actively engage in personal development and support the growth of others within the team.
• Contribute to wider business objectives and continuous operational improvement.