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Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

OEM Manufacturing LLC

CNC Lathe Operator

Moraine, OH

$20 - $30/hr

Are you a skilled CNC Lathe Operator looking for a rewarding opportunity? At Empower Manufacturing, we value our employees and provide a supportive, team-oriented environment. If you're passionate ...

Professional Search Group - Orange County

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CNC Lathe Operator

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

As a CNC Lathe Operator, you will be responsible for precisely setting up and operating CNC lathe machines to manufacture metal components. The role requires collaboration across departments to ...

United Rolls Inc

Lathe Operator

Canton, OH · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Summary Responsible for running lathe machines. This involves tasks related to set-up, machine operation, and disposing of chips as required. Tools and Equipment: lathes, variety of cutters and hand ...

Carlton Staffing

Weiler Lathe Operator

Stafford, TX

$28 - $34/hr

We're hiring a Weiler CNC Lathe Operator Machinist for our North Houston client! We are looking for experienced, reliable, hard-working employees who can interview immediately! DESCRIPTION OF YOUR ...

Empower Manufacturing

CNC Lathe Operator

Moraine, OH · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Are you a skilled CNC Lathe Operator looking for a rewarding opportunity? At Empower Manufacturing, we value our employees and provide a supportive, team-oriented environment. If you're passionate ...

Mancan

Lathe Operator

Donora, PA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Mancan Staffing is now hiring in partnership with a leading manufacturing facility in Donora, PA for a CNC Lathe Operator!** This is a **temp-to-perm opportunity** offering long-term stability and ...

AWC Indeed

Manual Lathe Operator

Wellington, CO

$24 - $32/hr

Manual Lathe Operator (Manual Machining Only) Location: Wellington, Colorado Job Type: Full-Time | Onsite Industry: Oil amp; Gas / Manufacturing About the Role: We are seeking a skilled Manual Lathe ...

United Rolls Inc.

Lathe Operator

Canton, OH · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Summary Responsible for running lathe machines. This involves tasks related to set-up, machine operation, and disposing of chips as required. Tools and Equipment: lathes, variety of cutters and hand ...

SolomonEdwards

Lathe Operator

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Essential Functions: • Perform setup on 2 axis CNC lathe machines for new and repeat jobs according to process sheets with minimal supervision or assistance. • Create, edit, send, or retrieve CNC ...

Samuel

Automatic Lathe Operator

Angola, IN

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Auto Lathe Operator uses machines to process raw materials into parts and other components and prepares parts for manufacturing. BENEFITS: * Companypaid health insurance * Dental, and vision ...

Sourcing HR Solutions

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CNC Lathe Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

A CNC Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up and operating computer numerical control (CNC) lathes to produce precision metal parts and components. This role requires interpreting technical ...

Aero Turbine, Inc.

CNC Lathe Operator - 1st shift

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$21.75 - $27.50/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Duties: * Read and interpret mechanical drawings and router instruction * Setup and machine parts to blueprints and/or work instructions * Select appropriate tooling * Act as in ...

Workbox Staffing

CNC Lathe Operator

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$30/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Location: Warsaw, IN Shift: 2nd Shift: Monday - Thursday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM 3rd Shift: Monday - Thursday, 8:00 PM - 6:00 AM Schedule: 4/10 workweek with 3-day weekends every week ...

TALENIQUE INC

CNC Lathe Operator

Amherst, NH · On-site

CNC Lathe Operator Primary Responsibilities : * Must understand and adhere to all relevant Quality Management System Processes. * Train and learn to operate CNC Lathes to produce parts meeting ...

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Lathe Operator information

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$13

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How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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.

Can a machinist make 100k a year?

A lathe operator, as a type of machinist, can potentially earn $100,000 annually with advanced skills, experience, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Achieving this income often requires specialized certifications, proficiency with CNC machines, and overtime or supervisory roles.

How much do CNC operators make?

CNC operators, including lathe operators, in Ohio typically earn an average hourly wage of around $18 to $25, which translates to approximately $37,000 to $52,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the machinery operated.

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.

How do you become a Lathe Operator?

To become a lathe operator, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through on-the-job training or technical programs. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed vocational training or an apprenticeship that covers machine operation, safety procedures, and basic maintenance of lathes.

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.

Are machinists still in demand?

Machinists, including lathe operators, are still in demand due to ongoing manufacturing and industrial needs. Skilled machinists with knowledge of CNC machines and precision tools are particularly sought after in various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and metalworking.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.
Lathe Operator

Lathe Operator

Kaney

Freeland, MI • On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Program, set up, and operate CNC lathes and turning centers for precision component manufacturing.

  • Develop complete machining processes from print review through final inspection.

  • Perform in-process inspections and final dimensional verification.

Job description

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-tolerance components. The ideal candidate will understand how outside processing operations affect part geometry and will develop machining strategies accordingly.
  • Program, set up, and operate CNC lathes and turning centers for precision component manufacturing
  • Develop complete machining processes from print review through final inspection
  • Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and customer specifications
  • Plan machining operations to compensate for dimensional changes caused by heat treating, coating, grinding, and other outside processing
  • Establish workholding methods and tooling strategies for complex precision parts
  • Create and optimize CNC programs to maximize efficiency and repeatability
  • Perform in-process inspections and final dimensional verification
  • Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and quality issues
  • Work closely with engineering and quality teams on new product introduction and process improvement
  • Maintain setup documentation, tooling records, and process standards
  • Mentor junior machinists and assist with technical training
  • Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Strong understanding of CNC programming and process development
  • Experience machining tight-tolerance precision components
  • Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills
  • Knowledge of material movement and dimensional change from outside processing operations
  • Experience with precision inspection equipment and measurement techniques

Minimum Competencies:
• 5+ years of advanced CNC turning experience in precision manufacturing
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to independently manage setups, programming, and process validation
Ball screw, aerospace, or high-precision manufacturing experience preferred
Salary Description
$22.00 - $32.00
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About Kaney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Rockford, IL, US

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