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Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Adecco is assisting a major client in their search for a Swiss & Lathe Operator in Hamilton, OH. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity, offering weekly pay and a chance to expand your experience. If ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lathe Operator

Canton, OH

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Description 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 ...

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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 ...

Lathe Operator

Dayton, OH

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

As a Lathe Operator, you'll operate machinery that manufactures threaded rebar couplers and other critical steel components used in major construction projects across the country. Every part you ...

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 ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$30 - $42/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Calisota Parts is seeking a CNC Lathe Operator to join our growing manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up and operating CNC lathes to produce precision ...

Lathe Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

As a Lathe Operator, you'll operate machinery that manufactures threaded rebar couplers and other critical steel components used in major construction projects across the country. Every part you ...

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 ...

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Lathe Operator information

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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.

What cities are hiring for Lathe Operator jobs? Cities with the most Lathe Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lathe Operator jobs? The most popular types of Lathe Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lathe Operator jobs? The top employers for Lathe Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Lathe Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Lathe Operator jobs include:
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

Momentum Manufacturing Group LLC

Ipswich, MA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Momentum Manufacturing Group rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Company:

Momentum Manufacturing Group is a leading manufacturing partner to OEMs and product manufacturers across various markets. With a skilled workforce of over 800, 14 manufacturing facilities across the Northeast, more than 850,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space, and a full suite of in-house metal manufacturing and value-added capabilities, we are an integral and trusted supply chain partner to many.

As a strategic manufacturing partner, we help our customers meet their cost, quality and time-to-market goals. With a full suite of in-house metal components manufacturing and value-added capabilities, we’re a manufacturer of choice for a diverse range of industries.

At Momentum Manufacturing Group, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Health Insurance: Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Supplemental Insurance: Employer paid short term disability and life insurance
  • Retirement Plans: 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off: Generous time off and paid holidays

Momentum Manufacturing Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

About the Role:

The CNC Lathe Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by operating computer numerical control (CNC) lathes to produce precision parts and components. This position requires the operator to interpret technical drawings and specifications to set up, program, and run CNC lathe machines efficiently and accurately. The operator ensures that all produced parts meet quality standards and tolerances by performing regular inspections and adjustments. Collaboration with engineering and quality assurance teams is essential to troubleshoot issues and optimize production processes. Ultimately, the CNC Lathe Operator contributes to maintaining high productivity levels while adhering to safety protocols and company standards.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Proven experience operating CNC lathe machines in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and machining instructions.
  • Familiarity with precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certification in CNC machining or related technical training.
  • Experience with CNC programming and machine setup.
  • Knowledge of CAD/CAM software.
  • Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Previous experience working in a safety-conscious industrial environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Set up and operate CNC lathe machines according to job specifications and blueprints.
  • Load raw materials and monitor machine operations to ensure continuous production.
  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of CNC equipment to maintain optimal functionality.
  • Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Adjust machine settings and tooling as necessary to correct defects or improve efficiency.
  • Document production data, machine performance, and any issues encountered during operation.
  • Collaborate with supervisors and engineers to resolve technical problems and improve processes.
  • Adhere to all safety guidelines and maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Skills:

The CNC Lathe Operator utilizes technical skills daily to interpret complex blueprints and translate them into precise machine operations. Proficiency with CNC machinery and programming enables the operator to set up and adjust equipment to meet exact specifications efficiently. Attention to detail is critical when inspecting parts to ensure they meet quality standards and tolerances, preventing costly errors. Communication skills facilitate effective collaboration with team members to troubleshoot issues and implement process improvements. Additionally, adherence to safety protocols and organizational skills help maintain a productive and secure work environment.


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