Manufacturing Engineer Machining Lead

Lockheed Martin • Ampthill, GB • 2w ago

About The Role

We are seeking an experienced Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer to lead CNC machining strategy and advanced tooling initiatives within the Operations Engineering department. This role will act as the technical focal point for machining operations, driving manufacturing excellence through optimized CNC programming, fixture design, tooling strategy, and process improvement.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in improving machining processes to improve efficiency, reducing cycle times, increasing yield, and supporting the manufacture of high-precision components. You will collaborate closely with Design Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to develop robust, scalable machining processes capable of supporting both prototype and production environments.

This is a technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in multi-axis machining, CAD/CAM programming, CNC turning advanced work holding solutions, and manufacturing process optimization.

The Operations Engineering team maintains a technology road map to ensure that the business is investing in the correct technology to support our customers requirements. The Lead Machining Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for maintaining and adding to the machining section of the technology roadmap.

Key Responsibilities

Lead CNC machining strategy development across the Operations Engineering department.
Develop and improve functional operating processes and incorporate them into Lockheed Martin's governing processes.
Process Ownership: Own, lead and develop the technology roadmap for machining on behalf of the Operations Engineering department ensuring alignment to Engineering requirements and technology developments within industry.
Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centres.
Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for standard and mill turn lathes.
Design and implement advanced fixturing and work holding solutions to improve repeatability, precision, and throughput.
Select and optimize cutting tools, tooling strategies, and machining parameters for a wide range of materials and geometries.
Establish best practices for machining operations, setup reduction, tooling management, and process standardisation.
Support new product introduction (NPI) activities through Design for Manufacture (DFM).
Troubleshoot complex machining and tooling issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions.
Work closely with Quality teams to ensure compliance with engineering tolerances, inspection requirements, and customer standards.
Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation including setup sheets, tooling lists, process flows, and work instructions.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies where appropriate.
Support capital equipment selection, commissioning, and capability validation for new CNC machinery and automation technologies.
Ensure all machining activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.

Required skills, qualifications and experience

Minimum 5 years’ experience within a CNC manufacturing or precision machining environment.
Demonstrated mastery of 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC programming and machining processes.
Expert-level proficiency in HyperMill.
Strong understanding of CNC machining strategies for complex geometries and tight-tolerance components.
Deep knowledge of metallurgy, material machinability, cutting tool technology, feeds and speeds optimisation, and chip control.
Extensive experience with advanced work holding, fixture design, and modular fixturing systems.
Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and engineering drawings.
Proven experience optimizing machining processes for cycle time, tool life, surface finish, and dimensional capability.
Experience supporting low-volume/high-complexity manufacturing and/or high-precision production environments.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Ability to troubleshoot complex manufacturing and machining issues in a fast-paced production environment.
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Experience working with ERP/MRP and manufacturing documentation systems.
Experience leading a team of other engineers and technicians.
Degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship, or equivalent qualification in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, or related discipline.

Desirable Experience

Experience within aerospace, defence, medical device, motorsport, semiconductor, energy, or other high-precision industries.
Knowledge of automation, robotic tending, palletisation, or lights-out machining strategies.
Familiarity with cutting tool management systems and digital manufacturing initiatives.
Exposure to additive manufacturing and hybrid manufacturing technologies.
Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt or Lean certification.
Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis.
Understanding of machining exotic alloys including titanium, Inconel, stainless steels, and hardened materials.

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