CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist – 3, 4 & 5 Axis
Location: Athlone, Co. Westmeath

Our client, a leading medical device manufacturer, is seeking an experienced and highly skilled CNC Machinist to join their precision manufacturing team. The successful candidate will have strong practical experience in 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining, particularly on Fanuc and Heidenhain control systems, along with the confidence to independently set up, operate and optimise complex machining processes. This is a hands-on role: the priority is a technically capable machinist with a thorough understanding of machining principles, machine setup, cutting tools and precision manufacturing. CAM experience is beneficial but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining centres.
• Work confidently with Fanuc and Heidenhain CNC control systems.
• Set up complex components involving multiple operations, workholding arrangements and machining orientations.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T and manufacturing specifications.
• Establish accurate work offsets, tool offsets and datum positions.
• Select and configure appropriate cutting tools, holders and workholding fixtures.
• Perform program prove-outs, first-off machining and production changeovers, making program adjustments at the machine where required.
• Optimise cutting speeds, feeds, toolpaths and machining strategies to improve cycle times and tool life.
• Identify and resolve machining problems, including chatter, tool wear, dimensional variation and surface-finish issues.
• Manufacture complex precision components to tight dimensional and geometric tolerances.
• Carry out in-process inspection using precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, bore gauges and height gauges.
• Work closely with process engineers to improve machining methods, productivity and process reliability, and contribute to new product introductions.
• Follow approved manufacturing procedures, quality requirements and traceability processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 5 years' practical experience in CNC machining, preferably within a precision engineering environment.
• Demonstrated experience setting up and operating 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining centres.
• Strong working knowledge of Fanuc and Heidenhain CNC controls.
• Trade qualification in toolmaking, machining or precision engineering.
• Ability to independently set up complex machining operations from engineering drawings and CNC programs.
• Excellent understanding of cutting tools, machining parameters, tool wear and workholding principles.
• Ability to read, interpret and apply complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience manufacturing components to tight tolerances.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to resolve machining problems without constant engineering support.
• Experience with CAM systems (e.g. hyperMILL, ESPRIT, Mastercam), simultaneous 5-axis machining, or mill-turn centres is desirable.
• Experience machining titanium, cobalt chrome and stainless steel, or working in medical device or aerospace environments, is desirable.
• High attention to detail and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

For further information on this role please contact Eugene on 0864403724 or engineering@hero.ie Check out all our open jobs on our HERO Recruitment website – https://www.hero.ie/ Please Note: Under its obligation under the Data Protection legislation, HERO Recruitment will not forward your details to any company without your prior approval. Data can only be transferred outside of the EEA on the basis of standards contractual clauses, to a country for whom an adequacy decision has been given by the European Commission or where the express permission of the data subject has been given. You have supplied us with your personal data in the process of applying for a position. Our client company may have personnel outside of the EEA who will review your application.