Job Roles

OFFSHORE WIND CNC Machinist

Manufacturing precision components that help build offshore wind turbines and infrastructure.

OVERVIEW
Offshore Wind CNC Machinists use computer-controlled machines to manufacture high-precision metal components used in offshore wind turbines, foundations, gearboxes, and other mechanical systems.
These parts must meet strict engineering standards to ensure turbines operate safely and efficiently in challenging offshore environments. CNC machinists play a vital role in the offshore wind supply chain by producing the components that make up turbines, nacelles, and associated infrastructure.
This role is ideal for people who enjoy hands-on engineering work, advanced manufacturing technologies, and working with precision machinery.

More details

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  • Operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to manufacture precision components and sub components

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications

  • Set up and programme CNC machines for different machining tasks

  • Maintain machinery and ensure safe workshop practices

  • Work closely with manufacturing engineers and quality inspectors

  • Produce components used in turbine assemblies and offshore structures

  • Monitor machining processes to ensure accuracy and quality

  • Inspect finished components using precision measurement tools

Location:

  • Manufacturing facilities and engineering workshops
  • Offshore wind turbine component factories
  • Supply chain manufacturing hubs across Scotland and the UK

·         Work Pattern:

  • Typically workshop or factory-based
  • Shift work may be required depending on manufacturing schedules
  • Full-time technical manufacturing roles

Conditions:

  • Working with advanced machining equipment
  • Precision manufacturing environments
  • Following strict safety and quality procedures

Team Structure:

You will work alongside:

  • Manufacturing engineers
  • Quality control inspectors
  • Mechanical engineers
  • Production supervisors
  • Fabrication and assembly teams

Essential Skills

  • CNC machine operation
  • Reading engineering drawings
  • Precision measurement and quality control
  • Mechanical engineering knowledge
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem solving and troubleshooting

Useful Skills

  • CNC programming (e.g., G-code)
  • CAD/CAM software familiarity
  • Metalworking and machining techniques
  • Manufacturing process optimisation
  • Health and safety awareness

·         Apprenticeship Route

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Precision Machining

 College/Technical Qualification

  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • CNC machining and manufacturing technology

Industry Transition Route

  • Automotive manufacturing
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Oil and gas fabrication
  • Precision engineering industries

·        

Typically Required

  • Engineering apprenticeship or technical qualification in machining or manufacturing
  • Experience operating CNC machines

Desirable

  • CAD/CAM software training
  • Advanced machining techniques
  • Quality assurance and inspection training

Relevant Training Courses

  • Modern Apprenticeship Engineering (Mechanical) – find out more here
  • HNC Mechanical Engineering – find out more here

  • NC Manufacturing Engineering - find out more here

  • NC Engineering Practice - find out more here

 

Salary and progression

Salary Range (Scotland)

  • CNC Machinist (Entry Level): £28,000 – £35,000
  • Experienced CNC Machinist: £35,000 – £45,000
  • Senior CNC Machinist / Manufacturing Specialist: £45,000 – £55,000+

Career Progression

  • Senior CNC Machinist
  • CNC Programmer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Production Supervisor
  • Engineering Workshop Manager