CNC Plasma Operator

Temp to permanent

Based in South Tyneside

Mon-Fri day shift only, half day finish Fridays

Negotiable hourly rate depending on experience and availability

Job Purpose:

Operate and set up an Ermaksan CNC plasma cutting machine to produce accurate cut parts from plate to drawing/spec, meeting quality, safety and production targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate an Ermaksan CNC plasma cutting table (power-up, referencing, consumables checks, cut parameters as required).
• Load/unload plate safely using overhead crane/forklift (where trained), ensuring correct material ID, thickness and grade.
• Interpret engineering drawings, cutting lists and job travellers to confirm dimensions, tolerances and priorities.
• Run programmes (and minor edits where authorised) including correct nesting, lead-ins/outs, pierce points and kerf compensation.
• Select and change consumables (nozzles, electrodes, shields), set torch height control, and monitor cut quality.
• Perform first-off and in-process inspection: dimensional checks, squareness, hole quality, bevel/edge condition; record results.
• Identify and resolve basic cutting issues (dross, taper, excessive bevel, mis-pierce, warping) and escalate where needed.
• Carry out routine TPM: clean rails/slats, check gases/air supply, drain filters, lubrication checks, basic calibration checks.
• Deburr, mark/etch, and sort parts to the correct stillage/pallet with clear traceability labels.
• Maintain 5S standards around the machine and follow SOPs, risk assessments and PPE requirements.
• Work closely with planning, fabrication and quality to hit schedule and reduce scrap/rework.

Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience operating a CNC plasma cutting machine
• Confident reading engineering drawings and using measuring equipment (tape, verniers/calipers, squares).
• Understanding of plate processing, tolerances, kerf, heat input and distortion control.
• Able to conduct basic fault-finding and adjust for cut quality (within permitted settings).
• Strong safety mindset and ability to work to production deadlines.