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Lathe Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PFI

Machinist

Algona, IA

$20.25 - $27/hr

Manual Lathe Operator Non-Exempt Full-Time Travel Required: 0-10% Reports to: Production ManagerRevision Date: July 18, 2024 PURPOSE OF POSITION We are looking for a skilled Manual Lathe Operator to ...

Katalyst Systems Impact

CNC Operator

Davenport, IA

$27 - $34/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Davenport, IA | On-Site Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM (1st Shift) A well-established high-precision job shop in Davenport, IA specializing in complex, one-off and short-run ...

Ascend Staffing

Machine Operator

Spencer, IA

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

CNC Lathe Operator * CNC Operator * Hiring Immediately Jobs @IN1172 @ZR1172 @TAL1172 Company Description A True Partner in Your Success: Ascend staffing has been connecting great people with great ...

General Mills

Flour Miller

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$28.02/hr

Participate in startup, changeover, and shut down of operating equipment * Participate in Continuous Improvement initiatives to increase platform performance * Assist in training new employees ...

Weiler

CNC Programmer - Lathe

Knoxville, IA · On-site

Creates setup sheet to clearly convey tooling, process, and set-up requirements to the machine operator. * Reviews set-up sheets for accuracy and competency. * Confers with engineers, production ...

WEILER INC

CNC Programmer - Lathe

Knoxville, IA · On-site

Creates setup sheet to clearly convey tooling, process, and set-up requirements to the machine operator. * Reviews set-up sheets for accuracy and competency. * Confers with engineers, production ...

Ascend Staffing

Machine Operator

Sioux Rapids, IA

$20 - $27/hr

... and manual lathe * Understand and apply machining principles and optimize processes for ... Monday - Friday Machine Operator Requirements * High School diploma/GED * Completed 2-year ...

Aerotek

Cnc Machine Operator

Farley, IA

$22/hr

CNC Machine Operator - $22+/hr + Shift Differential Looking for a manufacturing job with good pay ... CNC mill or lathe experience * Calipers and precision measurement tools * Blueprint reading ...

Stellar Industries Inc

Machine Operator I

Kanawha, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Stellar Industries, Inc

Machine Operator I

Kanawha, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Aerotek

Cnc Machine Operator

Farley, IA

$19 - $26/hr

CNC Machine Operator - $22+/hr + Shift Differential Advance Your Manufacturing Career with a ... CNC milling or lathe operation * Manufacturing and production environments * Fabrication and ...

LMT Defense

CNC Operator Level I, II & III

Eldridge, IA

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

The function of the CNC Operator Levels I-III is to perform advanced setup operations, adjust and check out programming, and operate CNC Mill and Lathe tools to perform a complex series of ...

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Lathe Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe operator in Iowa is $20.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $23.46 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 Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,035 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Machinist

PFI

Algona, IA

$20.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title:
FLSA:
Job Status: Manual Lathe Operator
Non-Exempt
Full-Time Travel Required: 0-10%
Reports to: Production ManagerRevision Date: July 18, 2024
PURPOSE OF POSITION
We are looking for a skilled Manual Lathe Operator to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have extensive
experience in operating and maintaining lathe machines to produce high-quality components. Responsibilities include setting up and
operating lathes for various machining operations, reading blueprints and technical drawings, troubleshooting machinery, and
collaborating with team members. A strong understanding of machining principles and excellent problem-solving skills are crucial. If
you are a dedicated and detail-oriented professional with a passion for precision machining, we encourage you to apply for this
position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be
required and assigned.
More specifically, the person will:
• Set up and operate lathe machines to perform various machining operations.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
• Select appropriate tools, materials, and machining parameters.
• Monitor the machining process to ensure quality and precision.
• Make adjustments to the machine settings as needed.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of lathe machines.
• Inspect finished products for defects and ensure they meet specifications.
• Collaborate with engineers and project managers.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues with the lathe machines.
• Ensure efficient use of materials and minimize waste.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Experience as a Manual Lathe Operator.
• Strong understanding of machining principles and techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Proficiency in using measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and precision.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime if needed.
EDUCATION – EXPERIENCE – COMPUTER SKILLS
• High School Diploma or Equivalent Preferred
TRAINING – CERTIFICATIONS – LICENSES
• Valid Driver’s license required.
COMPETENCIES
To perform this position successfully, individual should demonstrate the following work competencies:

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