CNC Lathe Programmer/Operator

Unleash your potential. Change the game with Gripple.

Do you have previous experience in programming/operating CNC machines? If so, this fantastic opportunity may be right for you.

We’re on the lookout for a CNC Lathe Programmer/Operator to join a rapidly expanding precision engineering arm of the business.

Why Gripple?

We’re not just innovators—we’re game-changers. Since 1989, Gripple has led the charge in wire joining and suspension systems. As a 100% employee-owned business, we don’t just hire talent—we invest in it. You’ll be backed by a global infrastructure and a culture that champions ownership, passion, and performance.

What’s in it for you:

• Share ownership: Buy a stake in Gripple and the GLIDE group and share in our success
• 15% non-contributory pension
• 32 days’ holiday, increasing with long service, plus quarterly ‘thank you’ days and your birthday off
• Private healthcare, family-focused policies, and exceptional benefits that support your wellbeing at every stage
• World-class product training, career development, and room to grow

The role:

Based at our Hellaby Works site in Rotherham, the position will be in the machining team where you’ll directly support new product development and high-quality production. You’ll take full ownership of CNC programmes across our Star sliding head and Index multi-spindle machines, drive improvements in cycle time and quality, and collaborate closely with design, production and quality. You’ll have the opportunity to influence how parts are made, improving processes, trialling new tooling, and supporting both prototype samples and day-to-day production.

What you’ll be doing:

• Taking ownership of all CNC programs, including creation, prove-out, optimisation and revision control
• Programming and editing controls including Fanuc and Siemens (training courses provided)
• Programming using SolidCAM and on-machine programming to support efficient, repeatable production (training courses provided)
• Supporting programming and production on our star sliding head and index multi-spindle machines
• Selecting tooling, set cutting parameters and supporting setup sheets/work instructions
• Owning the tooling supplier relationship, keeping a strong partnership with our vendor and proactively reviewing new tooling that could improve in-house performance and reduce cycle times
• Producing sample parts to support our design team with prototypes, trials and product development
• Working with operators and engineers to troubleshoot issues, implement improvements and reduce scrap/rework
• Supporting and training operators to set, run and sustain production, resolving machining/programme issues quickly
• Interpreting engineering drawings and material specifications to ensure smooth production runs
• Supporting inspections and working with quality to resolve non-conformances
• Maintaining programme revision control and contributing to continuous improvement activities
• Responsibility for housekeeping (5S) and H&S in the workplace, including COSHH=

Working hours 

The position will entail working a two-week shift pattern; mornings and afternoons, Mon-Thu 6am-2pm and 2pm-10pm Fridays 6am -1pm mornings and 1pm – 8pm afters. Weekend and nights shift work will also be required to meet the demands of the business.

You may also be required to help in other areas on site and so a flexible ‘can do’ attitude is paramount.

Who you are:

The successful applicant must have proven experience as a CNC programmer in a production/jobbing environment, and be able to offer:

• strong working knowledge of Fanuc or Siemens CNC controls (programming, editing and troubleshooting)
• experience working with CAD/CAM and shop-floor systems, including SolidCAM (or ability to learn quickly)
• ability to read and interpret technical drawings
• confidence setting speeds/feeds and selecting tooling for a range of materials
• willingness to travel for training courses and to support ongoing skills development
• good communication skills and a practical, problem-solving approach
• ability to identify material and request the best grade to machine in high volume
• CMM understanding (training provided)
• oil and coolant understanding
• ability to keep records
• tool holder knowledge

The Gripple Spirit

Our values – fun, integrity, passion, entrepreneurship, teamwork, innovation – aren’t just words on a wall. They shape everything we do. Join us, and you’ll experience:

• true work-life balance
• an inclusive and caring workplace where your ideas matter, and your impact is felt globally

Take a closer look:

• Learn more about who we are and how we’re changing the game: https://gripplestg.wpenginepowered.com/it/about-gripple

• Take a tour of the Hellaby Works site here

Apply by 6pm on 11^th May 2026

Join a team where everyone belongs

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued with a sense of belonging. If there are any adjustments that would help your experience with Gripple, please let us know when you apply. Whilst not mandatory, your completion of the applicant ethnic monitoring form before you submit your application will help us monitor and encourage equality and diversity. The information you provide will be anonymous and kept both confidential and separate to your application.