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Lathe Machine Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

CNC Lathe Machine Operator

Anaheim, CA

$26 - $35/hr

Take Your Machining Career to the Next Level--Now Hiring CNC Lathe Machine Operators in Anaheim, CA! Are you ready to work in a dynamic, supportive environment where your technical skills and ...

Defense Search

CNC Lathe Machinist - 21305

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

CNC Lathe Machinist - Defense Search OVERVIEW Are you looking for a new career opportunity with an ... Performing basic machine maintenance as needed * Communicating issues, quality concerns, or ...

Key Skilled Personnel

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CNC Lathe Machinist

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Edit, send, or retrieve CNC programs from systems files as required for lathe machine set-up and operation. * Read and interpret manufacturing paperwork (travelers, blueprints, sketches, etc.) in ...

Expert Staffing West

CNC Lathe Machinist

Poway, CA · On-site

$23 - $40/hr

This includes the safe and efficient operation of a CNC lathe machine allowing for the achievement of customer expectations for quality and on-time delivery. Key Responsibilities: * Set up and ...

Integrated Magnetics

CNC Lathe Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$45/hr

Responsibilities include interpreting engineering drawings, programming and operating CNC lathe equipment, monitoring machine performance, performing quality inspections, and maintaining a clean and ...

Integrated Magnetics

CNC Lathe Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$45/hr

Responsibilities include interpreting engineering drawings, programming and operating CNC lathe equipment, monitoring machine performance, performing quality inspections, and maintaining a clean and ...

Jim's Machining

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CNC Lathe Machinist / Operator

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Monitor machine performance to ensure quality standards and efficiency. * Inspect finished parts by ... Minimum 2 years of CNC lathe experience (operator required; setup experience a plus) * Must be able ...

Jim's Machining

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CNC Lathe Machinist / Operator

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Monitor machine performance to ensure quality standards and efficiency. * Inspect finished parts by ... Minimum 2 years of CNC lathe experience (operator required; setup experience a plus) * Must be able ...

Marquee Staffing - CB

CNC Lathe Machinist

Poway, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

CNC Lathe Machinist Location: Poway, CA Schedule: Full-Time 1st shift Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 3:30 ... Troubleshoot machine or tooling issues and perform routine operator maintenance. * Complete basic ...

Jim's Machining

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CNC Lathe Machinist / Operator

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Monitor machine performance to ensure quality standards and efficiency. * Inspect finished parts by ... Minimum 2 years of CNC lathe experience (operator required; setup experience a plus) * Must be able ...

LT Industries

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CNC Lathe Machinist

San Fernando, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Aerospace Manufacturing company in San Fernando Valley is seeking a qualified CNC Lathe Machinist Lead man to oversee the Lathe machinists. Job Requirements: * 5+ years experience in CNC Lathe ...

Veteran-friendly

Urgent

Calmax Technology

CNC Lathe Machinist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$23 - $38/hr

We are looking for CNC Lathe Machinists to join our 1st and 2nd shifts in Santa Clara, CA. CNC ... Enters commands to retrieve, input, or edit computerized machine control media according to ...

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All JobsLathe Machine JobsLathe Machine Jobs in California

Lathe Machine information

See California salary details

$15

$23

$32

How much do lathe machine jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe machine in California is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lathe machine?

A lathe machine is a versatile tool used in metalworking, woodworking, and manufacturing to shape materials by rotating a workpiece against a cutting tool. It can perform various operations such as cutting, drilling, sanding, and turning to create precise cylindrical, conical, or flat shapes. Lathes are commonly used to manufacture machine parts, tools, and decorative items. They come in different types, including engine lathes, turret lathes, and CNC lathes, each suited for specific applications. Learning to operate a lathe requires understanding its components, safety protocols, and machining techniques.

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

To thrive as a Lathe Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC or manual lathe machines, use of calipers and micrometers, and sometimes certification from organizations like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) are typical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and good hand-eye coordination are essential soft skills for ensuring quality and safety. These skills and qualities are important because they enable operators to produce precise parts efficiently while maintaining safety standards in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by lathe machine operators and how can they be managed?

Lathe Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during long production runs, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring adherence to strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges requires careful machine calibration, regular maintenance checks, and continuous attention to detail. Additionally, effective communication with the quality control team and other machinists helps ensure that production standards are consistently met and any issues are addressed promptly. Embracing ongoing training and staying updated on new machining techniques also contributes to success in this role.

What is the difference between Lathe Machine vs Milling Machine?

AspectLathe MachineMilling Machine
Primary FunctionRotates the workpiece to perform cutting, shaping, or drillingUses rotating cutting tools to remove material from the workpiece
Workpiece MovementWorkpiece is held and rotatedWorkpiece remains stationary while the cutting tool moves
Common UsesTurning, facing, threading, and boringSlotting, contouring, and complex shape machining
Required CertificationsMachinist certification, technical trainingMachinist certification, technical training

Both Lathe Machines and Milling Machines are essential in machining industries, often requiring similar skills and certifications. The main difference lies in their operation: lathes rotate the workpiece, ideal for symmetrical shapes, while milling machines use rotating cutters for complex and precise cuts. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right machine for specific manufacturing tasks.

What is the job in a lathe machine?

A lathe machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining lathe machines to shape metal, wood, or plastic materials by rotating the workpiece against cutting tools. The job requires knowledge of machine tools, precision measurement, and safety procedures. Operators often interpret technical drawings and may need certifications or training in machining technology.

What are popular job titles related to Lathe Machine jobs in California?

For Lathe Machine jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lathe Machine jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lathe Machine jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lathe Machine jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lathe Machine job openings:

Lathe Machine jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Machine job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,825 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

CNC Lathe Machine Operator

Lusk Quality Machine Products

Palmdale, CA

$23.50 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Lusk Quality, a leader in high volume precision turning and machining, is looking for experienced CNC Lathe Machine Operators. Ideal candidates will play a pivotal role in operating CNC Lathe machines to make parts and meet customers requirements. This multifaceted position requires a meticulous and detailed individual who can follow work order instructions, have a detailed understanding of blueprint reading in order to perform the job with precision and efficiency. Must possess a strong understanding of manufacturing principles. The CNC Operator will strive to meet all manufacturing, safety and policy requirements in place.

About the Company:

Lusk Quality is a family-owned company with almost 50 years of experienced craftmanship of machined parts; serving a wide range of customers and industries in the US and worldwide. Our success over the years is a direct result of our investment in quality people and superior technology, as well as the personal dedication we give each and every customer

Duties:

- Set up and operate CNC lathe machines to produce precision parts

- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications to determine machining operations

- Select and install cutting tools, attachments, and accessories on the machines

- Monitor machine operations to ensure quality and efficiency

- Make adjustments to machine settings as needed to maintain product specifications

- Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers and calipers

- Perform routine maintenance on machines to ensure proper functioning

Qualifications:

- High school diploma or equivalent

- Previous experience operating CNC lathe machines

- Proficient in the use of hand tools and measuring instruments

- Knowledge of G and M codes

- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings

- Strong attention to detail and ability to work with precision

- Familiarity with materials handling techniques for loading and unloading parts

- Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot machine issues

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as requested by the supervisor.

You should be proficient in:

  • Aerospace Manufacturing

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • CNC Lathe (5+ axis) (Mazak, Eurotech, Miyano, Nakamura)
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