Lathe & Press Operator (CAF UK, Overhaul facility, Manchester)

Cafmobility; Manchester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading transport engineering company in Manchester is looking for a Lathe & Press Operator. You'll be responsible for machining and assembling wheelsets compliant with safety standards. Ideal candidates will have NVQ Level 3 and experience in precision machining. The role offers a supportive work environment with benefits including 25 days annual leave and a strong commitment to professional development.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Excellent pension scheme

Comprehensive health-care cash plan

Flexible working

Paid volunteering days

Qualifications

• Proven experience in rail, aerospace or heavy engineering.
• Competent in CNC lathe setup and maintenance.
• Ability to work independently on complex machining tasks.

Responsibilities

• Machining axles, preparing wheel pans, and assembling wheelsets.
• Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Contributing to the reliability of overhauled bogies and wheelsets.

Skills

Operating precision CNC horizontal lathes

Machining components to tight tolerances

Interpreting technical drawings

Use of precision measuring equipment

Machine safety systems understanding

Organised work habits

Problem identification and escalation

Education

NVQ Level 3 or above in mechanical/electrical discipline

Tools

Precision measuring equipment

Job description

Lathe & Press Operator (CAF UK, Overhaul facility, Manchester)

2 days ago — Be among the first 25 applicants

About CAF

Innovation is in our DNA – we thrive on pushing boundaries and adapting to new challenges with a flexible approach. Proud to be a global leader, our fast‑paced growth provides exciting opportunities for our team and the community. We’re committed to maintaining trains and trams, enhancing vehicle safety and reliability to deliver a comfortable, dependable, and sustainable commuting experience for all passengers. Our 24/7 operation across the UK means we’re always on hand to provide reliable technical support, utilising the latest digital technology to make commuting easier. Working together as a team, we strive to achieve great things while supporting each other to thrive along the way.

What Can You Expect From CAF

• Positive work environment based on mutual respect and team spirit.
• Professional development through long‑term projects.
• Learning and autonomy—work independently and propose solutions.
• Security and reliability with a company built on 100+ years of experience.
• Cutting‑edge technology to create innovative solutions daily.

What will be your role in the company?

The Lathe & Press Operator is responsible for machining axles, preparing wheel pans, and assembling wheelsets using precision equipment such as horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses, in accordance with CAF Rail UK overhaul procedures and quality standards. This role ensures all machined and assembled wheelsets meet dimensional tolerances, alignment and safety specifications, maintaining full compliance with CAF’s HSQE requirements. The position directly contributes to the reliability and performance of overhauled bogies and wheelsets, supporting CAF’s commitment to safety, accuracy and quality.

What will make you successful in this position?

• NVQ Level 3 or above in a relevant mechanical/electrical discipline.
• Proven experience operating precision CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses in a rail, aerospace or heavy engineering environment.
• Skilled in machining axles and similar rotating components to tight dimensional tolerances and surface finish specifications.
• Competent in interpreting technical drawings, machining programmes and measurement data sheets.
• Experience setting up, tooling and maintaining CNC lathes for complex multi‑step operations.
• Proficient with precision measuring equipment such as micrometre, dial test indicator, bore gauges and surface finish testers.
• Familiar with wheelset assembly procedures, including pressing operations, alignment and fit verification.
• Understanding of machine safety systems, risk assessments and lock‑out/tag‑out practices.
• Ability to maintain consistent quality, safety and efficiency targets in production.
• Strong attention to precision in all machining and pressing operations.
• Disciplined and safety‑conscious when operating heavy and automated equipment.
• Methodical and analytical approach to measurement, tolerances and process control.
• Proactive in identifying issues or deviations and escalating promptly.
• Capable of working independently on complex machining tasks while contributing effectively within a small production team.
• Organised and tidy work habits, maintaining high 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Adaptable and open to new technology, tooling methods and process improvements.
• Committed to personal development, continuous improvement and upholding CAF’s quality culture.

About What We Offer

A Real Living Wage employer and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, RSSB Mental Health Charter and Women in Rail EDI Charter. We offer inclusive benefits: 25 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme (up to 10% contribution), comprehensive health‑care cash plan, Bike2Work scheme, professional sponsorship for career development, flexible working and family‑friendly culture. We also provide paid volunteering days and support social value initiatives such as tree‑planting, donations, and support for homeless and refugee communities.

Seniority level: Entry level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Management and Manufacturing

Industries: Motor Vehicle Manufacturing