Lathe & Press Operator at CAF UK Overhaul Facility, Manchester

About CAF

CAF is an innovative leader in the rail industry, committed to pushing boundaries through adaptable and flexible approaches. As a global company, CAF offers dynamic growth opportunities and focuses on improving the safety and reliability of trains and trams to provide a comfortable and sustainable commute for passengers. Operating 24/7 across various UK sites, CAF leverages the latest digital technologies to deliver dependable technical support.

The company values teamwork and strives to create an environment where employees excel together, supporting each other's success as they advance.

Role Overview

The Lathe & Press Operator will be responsible for precisely machining axles, preparing wheel pans, and assembling wheelsets. Key duties include operating horizontal CNC lathes and hydraulic wheel presses following CAF Rail UK overhaul protocols and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. This role involves verifying that wheelsets meet dimensional tolerances and alignment criteria while adhering strictly to CAF's HSQE regulations.

Responsibilities

• Machining axles and similar rotating components to tight dimensional and surface finish specifications.
• Operating and maintaining CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses with precision tooling setups.
• Interpreting complex technical drawings, machining programs, and measurement data sheets accurately.
• Using precision measuring instruments such as micrometres, bore gauges, dial test indicators, and surface finish testers.
• Conducting wheelset assembly, including pressing, alignment, and fit verification as per procedures.
• Following machine safety protocols, performing risk assessments, and applying lock-out/tag-out procedures.
• Meeting consistent quality, safety, and productivity goals within a production environment.
• Identifying and reporting any process deviations or issues promptly to supervisory staff.
• Maintaining organized, tidy workspaces adhering to 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Adapting positively to evolving technologies, tooling methods, and process improvements.

Qualifications and Skills

• NVQ Level 3 or higher in a relevant mechanical or electrical discipline.
• Experience operating CNC horizontal lathes and hydraulic wheel presses in rail, aerospace, or heavy engineering sectors.
• Proficiency in machining axles and rotating parts to precise tolerances.
• Ability to interpret and work from technical drawings and programming documentation.
• Competence with precision measuring tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of wheelset assembly processes including pressing, alignment, and fit checks.
• Awareness of machine safety systems, risk management, and procedural compliance.
• Strong focus on maintaining safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Disciplined and safety-conscious approach to heavy and automated machinery.
• Methodical and analytical mindset for measurement and process control.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively within a small team setting.
• Organizational skills ensuring high standards of workplace orderliness.
• Commitment to continuous personal development and contributing to CAF’s quality culture.

Compensation and Benefits

This position offers a competitive annual salary of £45,000. CAF is a Real Living Wage employer.

The company provides a positive, respectful work environment, long-term project involvement for career stability, opportunities for autonomous work decisions, and engagement with cutting-edge technology.

Additional benefits include 25 days annual leave, a workplace pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions, a comprehensive health care cash plan, Bike2Work scheme, paid volunteering days, and support for social value initiatives such as environmental and community aid projects.

Company Culture and Values

CAF is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, RSSB Mental Health Charter, and Women in Rail EDI Charter, emphasizing inclusivity, diversity, and wellbeing. Employees are supported through flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies, fostering a culture where everyone can thrive.