CAM Programmer

Overview

We are seeking a skilled CAM Programmer to join our high‑precision manufacturing team supporting aerospace and defence programmes. This role is hands‑on and focused on creating, optimising, and proving CNC machining programmes for complex, high‑tolerance components, produced primarily on advanced 5‑axis CNC and mill/turn machines.

You will work closely with design engineers, CNC machinists, and production to deliver robust, efficient machining strategies that meet demanding quality, performance, and delivery requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise CNC machining programmes using hyperMILL for 5‑axis CNC and 5‑axis mill/turn machines
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications
• Create efficient machining strategies for complex aerospace and defence components
• Simulate and verify toolpaths to prevent collisions and ensure machining accuracy
• Support prove‑out and first‑off runs in collaboration with CNC machinists
• Troubleshoot and refine existing programmes to improve cycle time, quality, and reliability
• Maintain programme documentation, tooling lists, and setup sheets
• Ensure machining processes comply with aerospace quality standards and internal procedures
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations

Requirements

• Proven experience as a CAM Programmer within a precision manufacturing environment
• Strong experience programming 5‑axis CNC machining centres and 5‑axis mill/turn machines
• Proficiency with hyperMILL
• Strong understanding of CNC machining processes, tooling selection, and feeds and speeds
• Experience machining high‑tolerance components with complex geometries
• Ability to work confidently from CAD models and engineering drawings
• Understanding of GD&T and tight‑tolerance manufacturing environments

Preferred Qualifications / Experience

• Experience within aerospace, defence, motorsport, or high‑performance engineering environments
• Experience with fixture design and workholding concepts
• Knowledge of advanced 5‑axis strategies such as simultaneous machining, swarf milling, and complex -surfacing
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP manufacturing systems
• Understanding of lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies
• Knowledge of post‑processors and machine kinematics

About Us

The mission of Cambridge Aerospace is to eliminate the risk of existential war in Europe. That risk comes from the air – low‑cost drones and cruise missiles manufactured in colossal volumes by our adversaries, ballistic missiles capable of ending the world as we know it, and a new generation of hypersonic weapons that evade every existing defence.

We’re building low‑cost interceptors that defeat these threats, and the surveillance systems to detect and target them – at a cost taxpayers can afford, at the pace the threat demands, and with sovereign supply chains that assure delivery.

We have immense backing from the world’s best venture funds. We’re one of the fastest‑growing defence technology companies in history, and we’re hiring exceptional engineers to prosecute the mission.

If you are in the top 1%, willing to work harder than you ever have, build technology better than anyone else, and contribute to the defining challenge of our time, now is the time to join us.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply.