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Lathe Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Boart Longyear

Machine Operator

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

About the Position We are seeking a skilled mid-level CNC Lathe Operator to join our manufacturing team at Boart Longyear. In this role, you will be responsible for operating CNC lathes to machine ...

5N Plus

Refining Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

$23/hr

We are seeking a Refining Operator 1 for a graveyard shift in the refining department. This is a ... CNC and manual lathe/mill machining background is preferred.Must be familiar with basic machine ...

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$12

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$26

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe operator in Utah is $20.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.74 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 Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,711 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Swiss Lathe Operator (79413)

US Tool Group

Farmington, MO

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago

US Tool Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

CNC Swiss Machine Programmer/Operator

2nd and 3rd Shifts AVAILABLE.  

Now Offering a $2.50 Shift Differential

Join Our Team!

We are seeking a skilled and motivated CNC Swiss Machine Programmer/Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating Swiss-style CNC machines while ensuring the production of high-quality precision components that meet customer specifications.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required; technical certificate preferred but not required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience programming and operating manual and/or CNC machines in a manufacturing environment, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience programming Swiss-style CNC machines; Citizen machine experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of CNC lathe controls, including multi-axis machine centers, with the ability to learn and adapt to evolving technologies.
  • Experience using precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, and indicators.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, specifications, geometric tolerances, and dimensions.
  • Thorough understanding of CNC programming segments and machining operations.
  • Working knowledge of tool holders, cutting tools, boring bars, and inserts used in precision machining.
  • Understanding of ISO standards as they relate to manufacturing processes.
  • Strong mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, geometry, and algebra for material and machining calculations.
  • Proficiency with computer software including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and CAD/CAM software.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
Daily Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate various types of automatic and manual machining equipment.
  • Program, troubleshoot, and optimize Swiss CNC machining operations.
  • Inspect and monitor product quality using measuring instruments and established inspection procedures.
  • Manufacture parts to close tolerances and quality standards.
  • Operate multiple machines simultaneously while maintaining productivity and quality.
  • Perform tool changes and offset adjustments as needed.
  • Make minor program modifications to improve machining performance and part quality.
  • Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time (up to 100% of the work shift).
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to push and pull up to 100 pounds.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions and work in a manufacturing environment.
What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement.
  • Stable, team-oriented work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits package (if applicable).
  • Health, Vision, Dental and Life Insurance
  • Competitive salary 
  • 401K benefit options
  • 9 Paid holidays
  • Paid time off/vacation accrual 
  • Weekly Pay 
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • A work-hard play-hard environment 
  • Personal and professional growth  
  • Attention to detail
  • Follow through and have the ability to organize time and work
  • Demonstrate proficiency in work habits and productivity
  • Make decision based on customer requirements & expectations
  • Excellent Communication Skills
  • Ability to read and comprehend documented material including tool drawings and technical info
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment
  • Ability to use a wide range of precision measuring tools
  • Self-motivated to get assigned work completed
  • Ability to follow and fill out required documentation

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