CNC Lathe Operator Setter

Unleash your potential. Change the game with Gripple.

Do you have previous experience on sliding head machines? If so, this fantastic opportunity may be right for you!

We’re on the lookout for a CNC Lathe Operator/Setter to join a rapidly expanding precision engineering arm of the business.

Why Gripple?

We’re not just innovators—we’re game-changers. Since 1989, Gripple has led the charge in wire joining and suspension systems. As a 100% employee-owned business, we don’t just hire talent—we invest in it. You’ll be backed by a global infrastructure and a culture that champions ownership, passion, and performance.

What’s in it for you:

• Share ownership: Buy a stake in Gripple and the GLIDE group and share in our success
• 15% non-contributory pension
• 32 days’ holiday, increasing with long service, plus quarterly 'thank you' days and your birthday off
• Private healthcare, family-focused policies, and exceptional benefits that support your wellbeing at every stage
• World-class product training, career development, and room to grow

The role:

Based at our Hellaby site in Rotherham, the position will involve the manufacture production of high quality, high volume turned components to supplied drawings; this will encompass setting and operating sliding head CNC machining centres. The role will also involve:

What you'll be doing:

• Setting and operating more than one machine wherever possible
• Maintaining tooling and inspection records for all components produced
• Reading and understanding engineering drawings and checking parts to ensure dimensions are within tolerance
• Recording checks on process control sheets
• Active involvement in continuous improvement activities
• Liaising with both the team leader and quality team, investigating production and machine problems and implementing solutions
• Carrying our basic maintenance
• Responsibility for housekeeping (5S) and H&S in the workplace, including COSHH

Working hours

The position will entail working a three-week shift pattern; Mornings, Mon-Thu 6am-2pm, Fri 6am-1pm. Afternoons Mon-Thu 2pm-10pm, Fri 1pm-8pm. Nights, Sun 11pm-6am Mon-Thu 10pm-6am. Weekend work will also be required to meet the demands of the business.

You may also be required to help in other areas on site and so a flexible ‘can do’ attitude is paramount.

Who you are:

The successful applicant must be an experienced craftsperson, ideally with:

• experience of using a sliding head machine
• commitment to lean manufacturing techniques
• previous experience in manufacturing precision components and patter work
• flexible, hardworking attitude and adaptability to changes in the working environment
• ability to work to deadlines and remain focused and calm in busy periods and a fast-paced environment
• good organisational skills and ability to think methodically
• accuracy, with attention to detail and a drive for quality
• self-motivation and ability to work on own initiative as well as part of a team

The Gripple Spirit

Our values – fun, integrity, passion, entrepreneurship, teamwork, innovation – aren’t just words on a wall. They shape everything we do. Join us, and you’ll experience:

• true work-life balance
• an inclusive and caring workplace where your ideas matter, and your impact is felt globally

Take a closer look:

• Learn more about who we are and how we’re changing the game: https://www.gripple.com/about-gripple
• Take a tour of the Hellaby Works site here

Apply by 6pm on 29th May 2026. Bring your ambition. We’ll bring the opportunity.

Join a team where everyone belongs

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued with a sense of belonging. If there are any adjustments that would help your experience with Gripple, please let us know when you apply. Whilst not mandatory, your completion of the applicant ethnic monitoring form before you submit your application will help us monitor and encourage equality and diversity. The information you provide will be anonymous and kept both confidential and separate to your application.