Elevation Recruitment Group is delighted to be working exclusively with a highly reputable and rapidly expanding precision engineering manufacturer based in Leeds. Due to continued investment, new machinery, and increased demand, the business is looking to appoint an experienced Sliding Head Lathe Machinist to join its skilled machining team.
This is an exciting opportunity for a talented CNC professional to work with state-of-the-art sliding-head (Swiss-type) technology in a clean, modern, and supportive environment—on a days-only shift with excellent long-term prospects.
Location: Leeds
Shifts: Days Only
Salary: £35,000 + Benefits
Contract Type: Permanent
The Role: Sliding Head Lathe Machinist
You will be responsible for setting, programming, and operating sliding-head CNC lathes than run on Fanuc Control to produce high-precision components across a range of industries. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring production quality, optimising processes, and supporting the company’s ongoing growth.
Key Responsibilities:
*Set up and operate sliding head CNC lathes, including tooling, collets, guide bushings, and bar feeders
*Load materials and prepare machines for production
*Complete first-off inspections and ensure consistent component quality
*Create, edit, and optimise CNC programs (G-code or CAM)
*Adjust speeds, feeds, and offsets to improve accuracy and cycle times
*Troubleshoot complex multi-axis machining operations
*Select and manage tooling to meet material and drawing requirements
*Monitor tool wear and maintain component surface finish
*Drive continuous improvements in tool life and machining efficiency
*Carry out in-process and final inspection using micrometers, calipers, gauges, etc.
*Ensure components meet drawings, tolerances, and GD&T standards
*Complete all relevant quality documentation and traceability records
*Diagnose machining issues including chatter, dimensional errors, or tool breakages
*Perform routine preventative maintenance and report faults
*Participate in continuous improvement activities
*Operate multiple machines when required
*Support lights-out / automated machining where applicable
*Maintain accurate production logs and follow established processes
*Follow all safety procedures for high-speed rotating equipment
*Handle cutting fluids, bar feeders, and swarf correctly
*Work in line with ISO9001, AS9100 or equivalent standards
About You
Experience & Qualifications
*3+ years’ experience operating sliding-head / Swiss-type CNC lathes (Citizen, Star, Tornos, Tsugami, etc.)
*Strong CNC programming skills (G-code and/or CAM)
*Confident reading engineering drawings and interpreting GD&T
*Experience machining stainless steel, brass, titanium, and engineering plastics
Skills & Attributes
*Skilled in precision measurement and inspection techniques
*Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
*Strong mechanical aptitude and dexterity
*Able to work autonomously and within a team
*Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles (desirable)
Interested?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a thriving business at a key point in its expansion. If you’re an experienced Sliding Head Lathe Machinist looking for a stable days-only role with long-term career potential, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now or contact Elevation Recruitment Group for confidential discussion.