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Lathe Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protolabs

Lathe Machinist

Brooklyn Park, MN

$30.38 - $37.50/hr

Experience as a CNC Milling or CNC lathe machine operator preferred doing setup and some understanding of programming * Knowledge of Machining in a prototype manufacturing setting or related ...

Protolabs

Lathe Machinist

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$30.38 - $37.50/hr

Experience as a CNC Milling or CNC lathe machine operator preferred doing setup and some understanding of programming * Knowledge of Machining in a prototype manufacturing setting or related ...

Magellan

N/C Lathe Operator

Corona, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Set up and operate lathe machines to perform turning, facing, drilling, and other machining ... Previous experience as a Lathe Operator or in a similar manufacturing role is preferred. * Ability ...

AtWork

Machinist /CNC & Lathe - 76131 Area

Saginaw, TX · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

... Lathe Machine experience in the Saginaw, TX 76131 area. The Machinist will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC lathe machines to produce precision metal or plastic parts ...

Carlton Staffing

Weiler Lathe Operator

Stafford, TX

$28 - $34/hr

CNC Machinist - Weiler Lathe Operator * Location: North Houston, TX * Pay: $28-$34/hr (depending on experience) * Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM or 6pm - 6am depending on openings.

Star Glo Precision, LLC

Be Seen First

Lathe Machine Setup/Operator

Carlstadt, NJ · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... Lathe machine setup/operator has unrestricted access to all customer data, areas and documents necessary to manufacture goods Company Description About Star Glo Precision Star Glo Precision was ...

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How much do lathe machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe machine operator in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Lathe Machine Operator job?

A Lathe Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a lathe machine to shape metal, wood, or other materials. They read blueprints, adjust machine settings, and ensure precision in cutting, drilling, and turning operations. Operators also inspect finished products for quality, make necessary adjustments, and follow safety protocols. Their role is crucial in manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, and metalworking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lathe Machine Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lathe Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to read technical blueprints, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC and manual lathe machines, precision measuring instruments, and safety procedures is commonly required, and some employers value certifications like NIMS. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help operators ensure accuracy and collaborate effectively with team members. These abilities are essential to maintain high-quality production, meet deadlines, and uphold safety standards in a manufacturing environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by Lathe Machine Operators, and how can they be overcome?

Lathe Machine Operators often face challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, troubleshooting machine malfunctions, and managing production deadlines. Staying focused and organized helps minimize errors, while a proactive approach to machine maintenance can prevent breakdowns and unplanned downtime. Regular communication with supervisors and quality control teams ensures specifications are met and any issues are quickly addressed. Continuous learning and cross-training with other machinery can also help operators adapt to changing production needs and advance in their careers.
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Lathe Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.
Lathe Machinist

Lathe Machinist

Protolabs

Brooklyn Park, MN

$30.38 - $37.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Protolabs rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 76 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Be yourself at Protolabs 
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to building a diverse team that feels they are valued in the workplace. So do you feel you do not meet every single requirement but still intrigued? We encourage you to still apply! You can help make our company even better. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, mental or physical ability, or any way you represent yourself. We strongly believe diversity makes for more successful teams. 
 
Why Protolabs? 
We are the leaders in digital manufacturing.  We hire doers, makers, and creative thinkers who tackle our roles with an entrepreneurial spirit.  Our culture is centered around meaningful work that brings new and innovative products to market at unprecedented speeds.  We are a diverse team that comes from all walks of life and take pride in our team who is smart, genuine, humble, and passionate about what we do.  It's our people who fuel our creativity and make our culture feel like home. 

Join our team as a Machinist!
 
The CNC Machinist is responsible for creating prototype machined parts on CNC Milling machines. The role will also create computer programs for the CNC machines using Mastercam and do set up to run multiple parts if needed. 
 
Shifts Monday -Friday
What you will do
  • Responsible for setting up CNC milling or CNC lathe machines and run jobs on CNC milling and CNC lathe machines ensuring all parts meet tight manufacturing requirements.
  • Prepare CAM files from various sources to include CAD files, prints, and verbal instruction.
  • Responsible for quick turnaround of parts and accuracy within established guidelines.
  • Maintain organization of jobs and material inventory.
  • Perform cleaning and general maintenance on milling or lathe machines and general shop equipment.
  • Must have a basic understanding of blueprint reading and geometric tolerances and how they relate to the finished part.
  • Perform thorough part inspections and make appropriate decisions relative to part quality requirements.
  • Ensure jobs are run in a timely manner to ensure on-time delivery.
  • Adhere to all quality and safety standards within the department.
  • Follows all processes and procedures during the shift, escalates problem areas to shift team lead/supervisor as appropriate.
  • Support daily production by identifying solutions for chronic issues and problems that cannot be resolved by production associates.
  • Responsible for maintaining a neat and organized production area consistent with Protolabs housekeeping standards.
  • Responsible for working in a safe manner consistent with Protolabs policies.
  • Self-starter capable of dealing with a variety of tasks in a fast paced, multi-tasking environment.
  • Responsible for ensuring completion of operator PMs during shift.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
What it takes
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience as a CNC Milling or CNC lathe machine operator preferred doing setup and some understanding of programming
  • Knowledge of Machining in a prototype manufacturing setting or related experience and education.
  • Familiarity with the tools of the trade; Microsoft Office suite of products, SolidWorks, Mastercam and CAD/CAM.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to read blueprints and use measuring instruments such as protractors, calipers, height gauges.
  • Ability to interpret and explain written and statistical data.
  • Strong attention to detail and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage time and prioritize work in an effective manner.
  • Highly developed, demonstrated teamwork skills.
  • Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality.
  • Demonstrated ability to increase productivity and continuously improve methods, approaches, and departmental contribution while being cost-sensitive.
  • Commitment to continuous learning.
  • Commitment to customer or employee service. 
What is in it for you
  • We offer a competitive salary
  • In addition, we offer amazing benefits including but not limited to:
  • Health Insurance: Traditional OR High Deductible plan
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account (including employer contributions)
  • Dental and Vision
  • Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Paid caregiver leave
  • You will receive 3 weeks of PTO + Holiday Pay + Volunteer Hours
  • 401k with company match and immediate vest
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program at a 15% discounted rate
  • Matching grants through Protolabs foundation
  • And More!
$30.38 - $37.50 an hour
Protolabs offers a competitive total rewards package, and compensation mix vary based on position, such as base wage, as well as other earnings including incentives and commissions. Actual pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors which may include, without limitation, job function, work experience, specialized skills, training, education, and certifications.
Proto Labs maintains ITAR-compliant operations in all of our United States based facilities.  Due to ITAR regulations, this role is only open to U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or foreign nationals granted refugee or asylee status.  Individuals with temporary visas (e.g. E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, TN or OPT) are not eligible for hire in this role.
 
Proto Labs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer
 
Physical Demands:
While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit; use a computer keyboard, monitor and mouse, telephone and printer; reach with hands, and arms, talk, see and hear.  The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop or kneel and must be able to lift and/or move up to 70 pounds. 

Work Environment:
Indoors (A/C); nonsmoking; the majority of this job function is performed in a manufacturing area exposed to machinery and noise; with eye protection and safety shoes required. Occasionally works in outside weather conditions. Occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.
  

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