CNC Machinist

Alignz Recruitment - Christchurch, South Island An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced and highly skilled CNC Machinist to join a growing New Zealand-owned engineering company specialising in high-performance plastics and precision-machined components. This is a hands-on role within a modern jobbing workshop, producing one-off, prototype, and small-batch components for a wide range of industrial applications. The successful candidate will be capable of independently taking a component from an engineering drawing or CAD model through to a finished, quality-assured product with minimal supervision. Working with state-of-the-art CNC equipment, you'll be responsible for programming, setting, operating, and optimising machining processes while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. Key responsibilities Program, set up, and operate CNC milling, turning, routing, and multi-axis machining centres Develop machining strategies from customer drawings and CAD models Produce first-off components and verify dimensional accuracy before production Manufacture precision components from engineering plastics, composites, and selected metals Design and manufacture fixtures, jigs, and workholding solutions Select cutting tools, tooling strategies, feeds, and speeds to maximise machining efficiency Perform manual machining where required Conduct quality inspections using precision measuring equipment Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and manufacturing specifications Maintain accurate production documentation and job records About you Trade qualification in Machining, Fitting & Turning, or equivalent engineering trade Extensive experience operating both manual and CNC machine tools Proven experience programming, setting, and operating multi-axis CNC machines, including 4-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn equipment Strong CAM programming experience Ability to independently develop machining strategies from engineering drawings or CAD models Experience manufacturing precision components to tight tolerances Strong knowledge of cutting tools, tooling selection, machining parameters, and process optimisation Experience machining engineering plastics, composites, and metals Ability to manufacture fixtures and workholding solutions Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills Varied jobbing and project-based work Opportunity to work on technically challenging components Stable, growing New Zealand-owned business Supportive and experienced team environment Overtime available at time-and-a-half Ongoing investment in technology and equipment Career development and progression opportunities Desired Attributes High attention to detail. Quality-focused with pride in workmanship. Strong mechanical aptitude. Self-motivated and capable of working independently. Positive attitude and willingness to mentor others. Commitment to continuous improvement. Strong understanding of Health & Safety requirements within a manufacturing environment. Equipment & Technologies Experience with the following is highly desirable: CNC Milling Machines CNC Lathes Multi-Axis CNC Machines Mill-Turn Machines Manual Mills & Lathes CAM Software Precision Measuring Equipment Composite Materials Aluminium, Stainless Steel, and Other Engineering Metals What's on Offer Varied jobbing and project-based work. Opportunity to work on technically challenging components. Stable, growing New Zealand-owned business. Supportive and experienced team environment. Overtime available at time-and-a-half. Ongoing investment in technology and equipment. Career development and progression opportunities. Working Hours Monday to Friday 6:00am start Overtime available as required Pre-Employment Requirements Drug and Alcohol Test Pre-Employment Medical Assessment Legal right to work in New Zealand Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a trade-qualified CNC Machinist who enjoys solving complex machining challenges and takes pride in producing high-quality precision components. They are confident programming and setting advanced CNC machinery, can work independently from engineering drawings through to completed parts, and enjoy mentoring others while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement. #J-18808-Ljbffr