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Lathe Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Carroll, IA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

CNC Machinist - Swiss Lathe & Turn-MillJoin a Precision Manufacturing Team Using Advanced CNC ... Experience operating and setting up CNC Swiss lathes and/or multi-axis turn-mill machines

CNC Machinist

Cedar Rapids, IA

$20 - $27.50/hr

Prior CNC lathe experience * Ability to set up and operate CNC lathes * Ability to read and ... Submit your resume to jobs@jeadams.com, with the Subject CNC Operator Resumes can be mailed to JE ...

New

MACHINIST (3rd shift)

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$21.97 - $25/hr

We're looking for one Saw Operator and one Mill Operator. Our machinists are a vital part of our ... CNC machinists with a diverse background in lathe and/or mill operation * Strong shop aptitude ...

MACHINIST (3rd shift)

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$21.97 - $25/hr

We're looking for one Saw Operator and one Mill Operator. Our machinists are a vital part of our ... CNC machinists with a diverse background in lathe and/or mill operation * Strong shop aptitude ...

CNC Programmer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

High-level tasks include programming, inspecting, setting up, and operating machinery as required ... Proficient with CNC Lathe and CNC Mill machining best practices. * 10+ years of proven successful ...

The CNC Machinist is responsible for performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking ... Lathe Machines. • 3+ years of experience reading, interpreting, and evaluating a variety of ...

The CNC Machinist is responsible for performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking ... Setup and operation of 3,4, and 5 axis CNC Mills, 4 and 5 axis CNC Mill-Turn machines, and Lathe ...

The CNC Machinist is responsible for performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking ... Lathe Machines. • 3+ years of experience reading, interpreting, and evaluating a variety of ...

The CNC Machinist is responsible for performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking ... Lathe Machines. • 3+ years of experience reading, interpreting, and evaluating a variety of ...

$31.25/hr

The CNC Machinist is responsible for performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking ... Lathe Machines. • 3+ years of experience reading, interpreting, and evaluating a variety of ...

Mechanic A Rate

Davenport, IA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating ... as lathe, drill press, or grinder to make and repair parts. * Work from drawings, blueprints ...

Technician, Maintenance - 2nd Shift

Newton, IA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Electrical and mechanical troubleshooting ability Experience and some proficiency operating various maintenance and tool room equipment such as power tools, mill, drill press, welders, lathe, press ...

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Process Engineer

Story City, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Create process flows, work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process ... CNC machining center, and/or lathe or other machining experience, requiring the manufacturing (set ...

Technician, Maintenance - 2nd Shift

Newton, IA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

... operating various maintenance and tool room equipment such as power tools, mill, drill press, welders, lathe, press, and band saw. • Previous industrial maintenance/tool room experience preferred ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Davenport, IA · On-site

$27.75 - $35.50/hr

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating ... as lathe, drill press, or grinder to make and repair parts. * Work from drawings, blueprints ...

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating ... as lathe, drill press, or grinder to make and repair parts. * Work from drawings, blueprints ...

Showing results 21-40

Lathe Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lathe Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Lathe Operator job openings:

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

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

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

Aerotek

Carroll, IA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Contractor, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

CNC Machinist - Swiss Lathe & Turn-MillJoin a Precision Manufacturing Team Using Advanced CNC Technology

We're seeking an experienced CNC Machinist to set up, operate, and troubleshoot Swiss lathes and multi-axis turn-mill machines in a high-precision manufacturing environment. In this role, you'll work with industry-leading equipment including Star Swiss lathes and Index mill-turn centers, utilizing Fanuc and Siemens controls to produce complex, tight-tolerance components.

If you take pride in precision machining, enjoy solving technical challenges, and thrive in a production-focused environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Travel Expectations
  • Employees will work on-site in Iowa
  • Per diem-eligible employees will receive $150/day, 7 days a week, during there time on contract
    • Per Diem is intended to used for food & lodging
    What You'll Do
    • Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC Swiss lathes and multi-axis turn-mill machines.
    • Complete machine setups, including tooling selection, installation, offsets, and program adjustments.
    • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
    • Edit and optimize G-code programs to improve efficiency, cycle times, and quality.
    • Monitor production runs and make real-time adjustments to maintain tight tolerances.
    • Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
    • Support tool changes, machine changeovers, and preventative maintenance activities.
    • Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve machining and process issues.
    • Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work environment.
    • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives through process, tooling, and programming enhancements.
    What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications
    • Experience operating and setting up CNC Swiss lathes and/or multi-axis turn-mill machines.
    • Strong knowledge of Fanuc and/or Siemens controls.
    • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T.
    • Experience editing and troubleshooting G-code programs.
    • Understanding of machining fundamentals, including tooling, feeds, speeds, turning, and milling operations.
    • Proficiency with precision inspection equipment.
    • Ability to maintain tight tolerances in a production environment.
    • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
    • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
    Preferred Qualifications
    • Experience with:
      • Star SR-20 Swiss Lathe (Fanuc Controls)
      • Star ECAS-32T Swiss Lathe (Siemens Controls)
      • Index G200 Turn-Mill Center (Siemens Controls)
      • Familiarity with G & M codes and CNC programming concepts.
      • Experience with Mastercam or similar CAM software.
      • Exposure to Haas, Mazak, and other CNC platforms.
      • Experience with multi-axis machining strategies and complex setups.
      Job Type & Location

      This is a Contract position based out of Carroll, IA.

      Pay and Benefits

      The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $40.00/hr.

      Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

      Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

      Workplace Type

      This is a fully onsite position in Carroll,IA.

      Application Deadline

      This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.

      About Aerotek

      Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

      Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

      The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

      San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
      Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

      Massachusetts Lie Detector:
      It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

      Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
      We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

      Company Description

      We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.


      Aerotek logo

      About Aerotek

      Sourced by ZipRecruiter

      We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our "people are everything" spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

      Industry

      Recruiting and staffing services and travel arrangement services

      Company size

      1,001 - 5,000 Employees

      Headquarters location

      Hanover, MD, US