ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lathe Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Cnc Lathe Operator

Auburn, CA

$58K - $95K/yr

CNC Lathe Operator This role focuses on operating CNC lathes to support the design and manufacture of precision components such as gerotor pumps and gear pumps in a modern, well-established ...

Las Precision Machining Inc

Be Seen First

Lathe Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Must have experience on lathe machines. Need to be comfortable with reading blueprints and doing setups. Must be able to maintain tight, aerospace tolerances. Position is full time, 40 hours Monday ...

Las Precision Machining Inc

Be Seen First

Lathe Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Must have experience on lathe machines. Need to be comfortable with reading blueprints and doing setups. Must be able to maintain tight, aerospace tolerances. Position is full time, 40 hours Monday ...

fontana

Lathe Operator II

Burbank, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

A Manual Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up, calibrating, and operating conventional manual lathes to machine precision components. The operator performs turning, facing, boring, threading ...

Fontana

Lathe Operator II

Burbank, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

A Manual Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up, calibrating, and operating conventional manual lathes to machine precision components. The operator performs turning, facing, boring, threading ...

MS AEROSPACE INC

CNC Lathe Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Department : CNC Lathe Department/ Area: Machine Shop Position Summary: The candidate will be responsible for operating the CNC Lathe, running, and checking production. Daily tasks

VOLT

CNC Lathe Operator - 2nd Shift

Valencia, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

As a CNC Lathe Operator, you will: * Set up and operate CNC lathe machines to manufacture precision components to specification * Load raw materials and unload finished parts while maintaining ...

Aerotek

Cnc Lathe Operator

Valencia, CA

$20 - $25/hr

You will be operating up CNC lathe machines to manufacture components for the aerospace & defense industry. You will also be utilizing blueprints and measuring parts using calipers & micrometers.

MS Aerospace

Be Seen First

CNC Lathe Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Department : CNC Lathe Position Summary: The candidate will be responsible for operating the CNC Lathe, and monitor quality of parts produced. Daily tasks : Run two CNC lathes to ...

Sourcing HR Solutions

Be Seen First

CNC Lathe and Mill Machine Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $38/hr

A CNC Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up and operating computer numerical control (CNC) lathes to produce precision metal parts and components. This role requires interpreting technical ...

OMW Corporation

Lathe Operator / Setup Machinist

Novato, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $32.75/hr

Operator level machinists must have relevant lathe experience and be competent in diagnosing tool cutter issues related to production manufacturing. You may be required to help operate standard 3, 4, ...

OMW Corporation

Lathe Operator / Setup Machinist

Novato, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $32.75/hr

Operator level machinists must have relevant lathe experience and be competent in diagnosing tool cutter issues related to production manufacturing. You may be required to help operate standard 3, 4, ...

OMW Corporation

Lathe Operator / Setup Machinist

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $32.25/hr

Operator level machinists must have relevant lathe experience and be competent in diagnosing tool cutter issues related to production manufacturing. You may be required to help operate standard 3, 4, ...

OMW Corporation

Lathe Operator / Setup Machinist

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $32.25/hr

Operator level machinists must have relevant lathe experience and be competent in diagnosing tool cutter issues related to production manufacturing. You may be required to help operate standard 3, 4, ...

OMW Corporation

Lathe Operator / Setup Machinist

Novato, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operator level machinists must have relevant lathe experience and be competent in diagnosing tool cutter issues related to production manufacturing. You may be required to help operate standard 3, 4, ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLathe Operator JobsLathe Operator Jobs in California

Lathe Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$28

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe operator in California is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lathe operator?

A lathe operator works with machinery to fabricate metal for the manufacturing industry. As a lathe operator, your duties include programming, monitoring, and operating a lathe machine to create new metal or plastic parts. A lathe operator typically needs a high school diploma or a GED certificate, as well as relevant work experience through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Skills necessary for the career include strong math and mechanical aptitude, the ability to read blueprints, and knowledge of specialized computer software for controlling the lathe machine.

What does a lathe operator do?

A Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining lathes—machines that rotate workpieces on their axes to cut, sand, drill, or shape materials such as metal, wood, or plastic. They read blueprints or technical drawings, select appropriate tools, and monitor the machining process to ensure parts meet precise specifications. Lathe Operators also inspect finished products for quality, make necessary adjustments to the machine, and perform routine maintenance to keep equipment in good working order.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lathe operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lathe Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, a solid understanding of machining processes, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training in machining. Familiarity with CNC and manual lathes, precision measuring tools, and reading blueprints is essential, and certifications like NIMS can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and safety in a team environment. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing errors, and supporting efficient manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges lathe operators face when working with different materials, and how are they addressed?

Lathe Operators often encounter challenges when switching between materials such as steel, aluminum, or plastics, as each material requires different cutting speeds, tool types, and coolant usage. Adjusting machine settings and selecting the right tooling are critical to avoid defects like chatter marks or excessive tool wear. Operators must also monitor the machining process closely and perform regular quality checks to ensure dimensional accuracy and surface finish. Continuous training and experience help in troubleshooting issues quickly and maintaining productivity.

What is the difference between Lathe Operator vs Machinist?

AspectLathe OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or apprenticeship often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate lathes to produce partsDesign, set up, operate various machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing and productionBroader role in manufacturing, often involving complex machining tasks

While both Lathe Operators and Machinists work with machine tools in manufacturing environments, Machinists typically have a broader skill set, including designing and setting up various machines. Lathe Operators focus specifically on operating lathes to produce parts, often with less emphasis on design or complex setups.

More about Lathe Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lathe Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Lathe Operator jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Lathe Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lathe Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Lathe Operator jobs in CA?

For Lathe Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lathe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Operator 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 $45,217 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Manual Lathe Operator

C & C Die Engraving Incorporated

Santa Fe Springs, CA • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Manual Lathe Operator

A Manual Lathe Operator sets up and operates manual horizontal lathes to turn, bore, face, and thread metal or plastic workpieces based on blueprints. Key duties include installing cutting tools, monitoring machine speeds, and verifying dimensions with precision gauges (micrometers, calipers). They must maintain a safe, clean work area, perform, and perform, basic machine maintenance. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Machine Setup: Interpret blueprints, schematics, and work orders to determine dimensions and tool requirements.
  • Operation: Manually operate lathe machines to cut, shape, and finish materials, including turning, boring, threading, and drilling.
  • Quality Inspection: Measure completed parts using precision instruments like micrometers, calipers, and dial gauges to ensure conformity to specifications.
  • Tool Maintenance: Select, install, and replace cutting tools; sharpen tools as needed.
  • Material Handling: Load and unload workpieces, often using hoists or cranes.
  • Safety & Maintenance: Keep equipment clean, oil machinery to prevent rust, and follow all safety protocols. 

Required Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Generally 3-5 years of experience operating manual lathes.
  • Technical Skills: Strong understanding of machining techniques, blueprints, and metallurgy.
  • Measurement Tools: Proficiency with inspection tools (micrometers, gauges).
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift heavy materials, and work in a manufacturing environment.
  • Education: High school diploma or GED. 

Typical Physical Demands 

  • Regularly standing, walking, bending, and crouching.
  • Lifting and moving heavy materials, often with machinery. 

Company Description

Small business with long term employees, great environment and culture!