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Lathe Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

MHI

Large Lathe Machinist (Night Shift)

Pooler, GA · On-site

$20 - $25.50/hr

Strong experience operating large lathe's * Proven ability to machine large, tight-tolerance components * Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills * Experience with alloy steels ...

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Edge Bander Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Edge Bander Operator is an essential individual contributor responsible for setting up and operating edge banding machines to produce quality custom projects. This role involves handling ...

Heckler & Koch Defense Inc.

CNC Operator II

Columbus, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

... operating, inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining CNC machines to perform tasks of milling and/or ... Train personnel to operate CNC mill and lathe processes. * Observe all safety rules and regulations.

Collins Manufacturing Company

CNC Machine Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

... Lathe) CMC Expectations of a Successful CNC Machinist 1: • Must successfully and competently ... Machine operators will need to know why machines are not at peak performance, how to increase ...

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Lathe Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe operator in Georgia is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.11 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.

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Lathe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Operator job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,687 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

CNC Operator Programmer & Lathe Operator

Gainesville, GA • On-site

PrideStaff- Gainesville
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about PrideStaff- Gainesvilleexternal

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


Shift: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm (OT as needed)
Pay: (based on experience; setup required, programming)

We’re hiring a CNC Mill & Lathe Operator to support a newly launched precision machining operation featuring brand new Haas equipment: Haas ST-30 (lathe) and Haas VF-4SS (vertical mill). This role requires setup capability and the ability to run multiple machines at once, including tending an automatic bandsaw between cycles. Programming experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate Haas ST-30 and VF-4SS to produce parts per prints/travelers
  • Perform complete setups: fixturing, tool selection, work offsets (G54+), tool offsets, touch-off/probing (as applicable)
  • Load approved programs, prove out first-piece, and make operator-level adjustments (feeds/speeds/offsets) to hold spec
  • Run multiple machines simultaneously (mill/lathe) while maintaining quality, part flow, and safe work practices
  • Operate and monitor the automatic bandsaw (cut stock to length, maintain cut lists, stage material, basic blade/vice checks)
  • Perform first-piece and in-process inspections (calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauge/indicators as needed)
  • Maintain part counts, identification, and job traceability; record production, scrap, and downtime in the job tracking system
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area (5S) and complete daily/weekly checklists

Requirements

  • 1+ years CNC machining experience with setup (mill and/or lathe)
  • Ability to read blueprints and follow work instructions (basic GD&T preferred)
  • Comfortable with precision measuring tools and documenting inspection results
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and reliable attendance
  • Ability to prioritize work and stay productive while machines are running

Preferred

  • Haas control experience (ST-series and VF-series)
  • Programming a plus: editing at the control, reading basic G-code, and/or CAM exposure
  • Experience working with aluminum, mild steel, and stainless
  • Experience balancing workflow: saw,  lath, mill, inspection/pack-out

Physical / Environment

  • Standing/walking for long periods; frequent bending and material handling
  • Lift up to 50 lbs (team lift/assist devices as needed)
  • Manufacturing environment; PPE required (safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves as appropriate, steel-toe footwear)

Company Description

We are hiring for our internal recruiting team in the Gainesville, GA area to meet an increasing demand from our Clients. Our success yields from high-quality and exceptional customer service professionals.

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About PrideStaff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Accountability of local ownership along with the resources and expertise that the $200m national organization of PrideStaff backing us has. Therese is involved in all day-to-day operations. She leads a dynamic team of recruiters who together are focused on ensuring both clients and candidates have an exceptional experience. When you call the office, it is not unusual that Therese will answer the phone. Along with her team, she conducts interviews and helps with the hiring process. Additionally, PrideStaff’s 80+ other locations across the United States gives us resources not available to most other local staffing firms. It’s not what we say about ourselves that matters…it’s what has been said in our over 3,800 client testimonials that we’ve received over the years that matters.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fresno, CA, US

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