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Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Laborer and Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Tape Controlled Lathe, Conventional Lathe, Post Mill, Milling Machine, cutting tools, calipers ... hammer, floor operated crane Materials: Various mill supplies, rolls, scrap, etc. Working ...

Laborer and Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN ยท On-site

$19.96 - $24.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Tape Controlled Lathe, Conventional Lathe, Post Mill, Milling Machine, cutting tools, calipers ... hammer, floor operated crane Materials: Various mill supplies, rolls, scrap, etc. Working ...

Machine Operator

Batavia, IL

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

We are seeking Machine Operators for Engine Lathe Operations and at our Batavia location, with opportunities available on 2nd shifts M-Th 2pm- Midnight Key Responsibilities: * Operate manual lathes ...

Machine Operator

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$26.12 - $29.52/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

We are seeking Machine Operators for Engine Lathe Operations and at our Batavia location, with opportunities available on 2nd shifts M-Th 2pm- Midnight Key Responsibilities: * Operate manual lathes ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

CNC Lathe Machinist (1st & 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... The CNC Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines to produce ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

CNC Lathe Machinist (1st & 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... The CNC Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines to produce ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Frankfort, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $42/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

CNC Lathe OperatorCalisota Parts is seeking a CNC Lathe Operator to join our growing manufacturing ... Monitor machine performance, tool condition, cycle time, and product quality.Identify and ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

CNC Lathe Machinist (1st & 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... The CNC Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines to produce ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

CNC Lathe Machinist (1st & 3rd shift) Viantis a global medical device design and manufacturing ... The CNC Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines to produce ...

Showing results 21-40

Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$24

$33

How much do lathe machine operator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe machine operator apprentice in Chicago, IL is $24.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lathe machine operator apprentice?

A Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice should possess a basic understanding of machining processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with precision measuring tools, blueprint reading, and basic CNC or manual lathe operation is typically required, and some employers may look for OSHA safety training or manufacturing certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn help apprentices excel in both technical tasks and teamwork. These competencies are crucial for producing high-quality parts, maintaining safety, and supporting efficient manufacturing operations.

What is the difference between Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice vs Lathe Machine Operator?

AspectLathe Machine Operator ApprenticeLathe Machine Operator
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some technical coursesTypically requires completion of apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for machine operation
Industry UsageEntry-level, learning phaseSkilled worker, experienced in machining

The main difference is that a Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Lathe Machine Operator is a fully qualified worker responsible for operating lathes independently.

What are some common challenges faced by lathe machine operator apprentices during their training period?

Lathe Machine Operator Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise measurements, understanding different materials, and learning to read technical drawings accurately. Adjusting to the pace of a production environment and maintaining safety standards while gaining hands-on experience can also be demanding. However, most apprenticeships provide structured mentorship and incremental skill-building, allowing new operators to gradually develop confidence and proficiency in using various types of lathes and related equipment.

What does a lathe machine operator apprentice do?

A Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice assists experienced machinists in operating lathes to shape metal or other materials according to precise specifications. They learn to set up machines, secure workpieces, and monitor the machining process, ensuring quality and safety standards are met. Apprentices also gain experience in reading technical drawings, measuring finished products, and performing routine machine maintenance. Over time, they develop the skills needed to operate lathes independently and advance in the machining trade.

Laborer and Machine Operator

UES

Valparaiso, IN โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Job Summary

To set up and operate Tape Controlled Lathe, Conventional Lathe, Post Mill or Milling Machine for production of rolls, shafts, etc.


Tools and Equipment:

Tape Controlled Lathe, Conventional Lathe, Post Mill, Milling Machine, cutting tools, calipers, rules, micrometers, gauges, indicators, wrenches and other ordinary hand tools.


Working Procedures:

  • Receives numerical tape programs, work orders, prints and instructions from Foreman.
  • Locates work piece, hooks for and directs Crane man in positioning piece in machine and transferring finished piece from machine to storage. Turns roll end for end as required.
  • Sets up machine for various size rolls as required by adjusting tail stock, head stock jaws, roll clamping, v-blocks, roller rest, indicate or layout, insert proper tape in tape reader, profile attachment, etc.
  • Sets up and operates machine tools, adjusting stops, feeds and speeds, numerical tape controls, etc., for operations being machined.
  • Checks and records forging or roll dimensions, stock and run out. Compare with print dimensions.
  • May operate tape control lathe under semi-automatic control.
  • Performs attendant functions as required in observing process under tape control.
  • Performs straight and taper turning, boring, threading, facing, drilling, tapping, reaming, plugging and mill work, etc., to the required dimensional specifications and tolerances.
  • Uses calipers, micrometers, scales, gauges, etc., to check for finish sizes.
  • May position and tighten roll plug as required.
  • Sharpen own tools as required.
  • Cleans, lubricates, and makes minor adjustments or replacements to machine. May assist in repairs.
  • Remove chips from machine and maintains clean and orderly working area.

Laborer Primary Function:

Performs a variety of laborer duties for the plant


Tools and Equipment:
Wheelbarrow, shovel, broom, hooks, chains, cables, hammer, sledges, wrenches, air hammer, floor operated crane


Materials:
Various mill supplies, rolls, scrap, etc.


Working Procedures:

  • Performs general labor duties for the plant, such as remove scrap from machines using shovel and wheelbarrow or hooking for Crane man in cleaning pits and boxes.
  • Uses wheelbarrow or crane service to transport or handle tools, shop supplies and lubricants. May operate pendant control crane to move product or material as directed.
  • Uses wrench, bar and pins and sledge to assist in installing or removing center plugs as directed or mounting grinding wheels.
  • Assists in tearing down, piling and transferring rolls as directed.
  • Loads and unloads trucks, either manually or uses crane service as required and blocks rolls or material as directed. May occasionally weigh rolls as instructed.
  • Uses solvent and rags to clean painted or greased rolls as directed.
  • Occasionally may use air hammer to break concrete as directed.
  • Performs plant janitor service. Shovels snow, sweeps and cleans walks and roadways.
  • Performs other miscellaneous clean up or labor work as directed.


The above statement reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all of the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.


Competitive Wage, Medical, Dental, 401k


Equal Employment Opportunities will be given to all applicants regardless of their race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, non-job related physical or mental disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.


Voluntary Self Identification of Race, Gender, Protected Veteran Status, and Disability


Pre-employment physical, background check and drug screening for all new hires


Requirements: