Tool Designer & CNC Programmer (Turning & Milling)
Location: PPE Ltd, Blackburn (On-site). Hybrid opportunities following probation.Employment Type: Full-Time.Experience Level: 5+ Years.Hours: 08.30am – 17.00am.Salary: £35,000–£40,000 + annual bonus scheme.
About the Company
Founded in 1975, PPE is a leading provider of high‑performance O‑rings and sealing solutions used globally in oil & gas, chemical processing, food and pharma manufacturing, marine, power generation, aerospace, and semiconductors. PPE operates manufacturing facilities in the UK and the US and maintains sales offices and channel partner networks across the US, Europe, and Asia.
Job Summary
Seeking an experienced Tool Designer and CNC Programmer proficient in SolidWorks and SolidCAM for both turning and milling operations. The role involves designing and manufacturing mould tools, programming CNC machines, collaborating with production teams, and providing tooling estimates and lead times.
Key Responsibilities
- Design precision tools and moulds using SolidWorks.
- Create and optimise CNC programs using SolidCAM for turning and milling.
- Interpret detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
- Collaborate with tooling manufacturing and operations teams to ensure designs are practical and cost‑effective.
- Troubleshoot and refine tool designs, tool usage, and machining processes.
- Maintain documentation and records of designs, revisions, and production processes.
- Manage workload and key stakeholders.
- Support RFQs, providing tooling estimates and lead times.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of experience in tool design and CNC programming.
- Proficient in SolidWorks and SolidCAM, or similar.
- Strong understanding of mould tool design and manufacturing.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings accurately and understand GD&T.
- Experience in the continuous improvement of techniques and methods within tooling design, programming, and manufacture, and application of new technologies.
- Experience with CNC machine operation (turning and milling).
- Fluent in English, both written and verbal.
- Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
- Strong team‑working ability, and can independently manage workload.
Preferred Attributes
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field, or HND equivalent.
- Familiarity with CAM simulation and verification tools.
- Knowledge of materials and machining processes relevant to mould tool manufacturing.
- Experience with ERP systems, preferably JD Edwards.
- Experience with PDM systems, preferably Adept.
Typical Duties
Design and develop detailed 3D tool and component designs using SolidWorks. Create complete 2D manufacturing drawings, tolerances, GD&T, BOMs, and assembly documentation. Design compression mould tooling components such as cavity blocks, cores, inserts, plates, guide systems, and ejector arrangements. Perform design and operation feasibility checks as part of a cross‑functional team. Review specifications, models, and technical requirements to ensure design compliance. Conduct design reviews with engineering, tooling, and industrialisation teams. Optimise tool designs for performance, durability, and ease of machining/maintenance.
Generate CNC toolpaths using SolidCAM software. Select effective machining strategies for roughing, semi‑finishing, and finishing of mould surfaces. Validate toolpaths using simulation and collision detection tools. Choose appropriate tooling, cutting parameters, and work‑holding to maximise efficiency and surface quality. Support CNC machinists during setup, prove‑out, first‑article runs, and troubleshooting. Continuously optimise toolpaths for cycle‑time reduction and improved tool life.
Maintain part numbers, BOMs, and routing information within the ERP system. Ensure all tool designs, revisions, and related documents are stored and controlled via the PDM system. Generate job cards, production orders, and material requisitions via ERP workflows.
Provide technical support to machinists, toolmakers, and engineering. Review and update designs based on feedback from mould trials, tool testing, or production issues. Participate in root‑cause analysis for tooling failures or dimensional issues. Assist in tool assembly, validation, and functional testing when needed. Collaborate with quality teams for CMM reports, inspection routines, and dimensional sign‑off.
Develop and implement best practices in tooling design and CNC programming. Evaluate new CAM strategies, cutting tools, coatings, and machining technologies. Maintain machine shop standards for safety, documentation, and workflow efficiency. Support cost‑reduction initiatives through improved design and manufacturing methods. Train team members on CAD/CAM workflows, design standards, or new technologies.
Person Specification
- Drive for Results: motivated and driven to deliver results in responsibilities.
- Decision Quality: makes sound decisions aligned with company values.
- Communication: uses strong communication techniques, writes clearly, and adapts style to situations.
- Developing Self / Team: seeks feedback and acts on it for personal and team improvement.
- Adaptability / Managing Change: understands and changes differing opinions and perceptions.
- Interpersonal Skills: approachable, resolves conflict, listens actively, maintains emotional control.
- Cost Consciousness: aware of costs of people and materials and works to reduce them.
- Ethics: treats people with respect and promotes company values.
- Initiative: demonstrates initiative and seeks improvements.
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