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Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S&A Solutions

CNC Lathe Operator

Macomb, MI · On-site

$20.70/hr

CNC Lathe Operator - Tier 1 Automotive Supplier (Macomb, MI) Now Hiring Experienced CNC Lathe Operators. We are a Tier 1 automotive supplier in Macomb, MI, looking for skilled CNC Lathe Operators to ...

SMS group Inc

Lathe Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$23.27 - $30.43/hr

Summary A Lathe Operator will be required to set up and operate engine lathe and accessories to perform a variety of operations on rolls and other parts to meet quality assurance requirements. They ...

Summit Staffing

CNC Lathe Operator

Westfield, IN

$28 - $35/hr

CNC Lathe Operator * Shift: (1st & 3rd Shift) * Pay: $28.00 - $35.00 * Location: Westfield, IN 46074 Position Overview: We are seeking experienced CNC Lathe Operators to join a growing precision ...

DMK Industries

Manual Lathe Operator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour Experienced and reliable manual lathe operator to turn steel mill rolls. Should have at least 3 years of lathe experience. Wages based on experience and abilities. Paid ...

Hoosier, Inc.

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CNC Lathe Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

CNC Lathe Operator (Entry Level to Experienced) - 2nd Shift Hoosier, Inc. | Full-Time Pay: $18 - $25/hour (based on experience) We're a fast-growing precision CNC machine shop hiring for a 2nd Shift ...

Kaney

Lathe Operator

Freeland, MI · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

The Lathe Operator to support complex turning operations for precision ball screw manufacturing. This role requires expertise in CNC programming, process planning, and precision machining of high ...

HiFyve

CNC Lathe Operator

New York, NY

$20 - $35/hr

HiFyve is hiring a CNC Lathe Operator / Machinist in the Manufacturing industry in Queens, NY! Pay: $20 - $35/hour (depending on experience) Shift: 2nd Shift (must train on 1st shift for several ...

Global Dental Science LLC

Lathe Operator

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Set up lathe and operate per specifications * Maintain all logs Responsibilities : * Maintain a clean and safe work environment * Alert Manager of any repair needs of other areas of concern with ...

Butech Bliss

CNC Lathe Operator

Salem, OH · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Butech Bliss sets itself apart through innovative design, manufacturing excellence, and industry-leading service. Our success is driven by the strength of our people, and we are ...

swipejobs LLC

Manual Lathe Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Manual Lathe Operator REPORTS TO: Shop Foreman/Leadman LOCATION: Houston, TX OVERVIEW: Help drive Shop productivity and profitability by working closely with shop team, leadman, and shop foreman to ...

Simos

Lathe Operator

Geneva, IL · On-site

$21.97/hr

Description We're seeking a skilled Lathe Operator to produce high-quality parts using precision machinery. The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, excellent attention to detail, and the ...

Kaney, Inc

Lathe Operator

Freeland, MI · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

The Lathe Operator to support complex turning operations for precision ball screw manufacturing. This role requires expertise in CNC programming, process planning, and precision machining of high ...

TALENIQUE INC

CNC Lathe Operator

Amherst, NH · On-site

CNC Lathe Operator Pay Rate: Up to $25/hour (based on experience) Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM About the Company This company specializes in manufacturing custom thermoset resin ...

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Lathe Operator information

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$13

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$28

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe operator in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

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Lathe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.
CNC Lathe Operator

CNC Lathe Operator

S&A Solutions

Macomb, MI • On-site

$20.70/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description CNC Lathe Operator - Tier 1 Automotive Supplier (Macomb, MI) Now Hiring Experienced CNC Lathe Operators. We are a Tier 1 automotive supplier in Macomb, MI, looking for skilled CNC Lathe Operators to join our team. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity, offering excellent benefits upon direct hire, including pro-rated vacation time, gym memberships, 401K, profit-sharing, free uniforms, and more.

Position Details: 2nd Shift: 3 PM - 11 PM ($20.70/hr) 3rd Shift: 11 PM - 7 AM ($20.70/hr) Weekly Pay Contract-to-Hire with full-time benefits after completion of the contract period Key Responsibilities: Operate CNC Lathe machines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Perform tool changes, minor offsets, and insert swaps as needed Follow machining instructions-no programming required Conduct first-piece inspections and make necessary adjustments to ensure quality standards Set machine controls according to program requirements and install fixtures Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and basic repairs on machines within assigned work areas Complete and update daily production paperwork (reports, PPLH, TAKT, scrap reports, etc.) Conduct quality checks on parts and report any defects to the Team Leader or Supervisor Requirements: Minimum 1 year of CNC Lathe operation experience Ability to perform basic troubleshooting and adjust robot positions using a teach pendant Basic computer skills and experience with workplace machinery such as SAP handheld scanners, calculators, printers, and calipers Understanding of IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and Q1 compliance standards What's in It for You. Employee Stock Ownership Plan Incentive Bonus Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Plan 401K Retirement Plan Paid Vacation & Holidays Short-Term Disability Coverage Tuition Reimbursement Health & Wellness Reimbursement Employee Recognition Programs Exclusive Discount Programs Why Apply. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced CNC Lathe Operators looking for a long-term career with a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier

If you're ready to join a company that values your skills and offers career growth opportunities, apply today. #HiringNow #CNCJobs #ManufacturingCareers #MachinistJobs #INDM123

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