ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

PPS-HPS

CNC Lathe Operator

Painesville, OH · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

CNC Lathe Operator - Start ASAP Fairport Harbor, OH | 1st Shift (Mon-Thurs, 6AM-4PM) Looking for a solid machinist who shows up, knows their way around a CNC lathe, and takes pride in quality work.

Oberg Industries

Swiss Lathe Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Swiss Lathe Operator - Chicago, IL Location: Chicago, IL | Full-Time | On-Site Join a team where your skills directly impact the production of high-precision components used in critical industries ...

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 ...

Carlton Staffing

Weiler Lathe Operator

Stafford, TX · On-site

$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 ...

Kaney Aerospace LLC

Lathe Operator

Freeland, MI · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

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 ...

AWC Indeed

Manual Lathe Operator

Wellington, CO

$24 - $30/hr

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

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 ...

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 ...

OEM Manufacturing LLC

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 ...

Samuel

Automatic Lathe Operator

Angola, IN · On-site

$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

Be Seen First

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 ...

Linked LLC

Be Seen First

CNC Lathe Operator

Mount Clemens, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

CNC Lathe Operator Employment Type: Contract-to-Direct Hire Schedule: Full-Time | On-Site Pay: $20-$25 per hour, based on experience Job Summary We are seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Operator for a ...

Workbox Staffing

CNC Lathe Operator

Warsaw, IN

$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 ...

Aerotek

Lathe Operator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Machine Operator - 5-Axis Lathe This role focuses on operating advanced 5-axis lathes and related metal-cutting equipment to produce high-quality components that meet precise specifications. You will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLathe Operator Jobs

Lathe Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$28

How much do lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

More about Lathe Operator jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Lathe Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lathe Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Lathe Operator jobs? For Lathe Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lathe Operator jobs near you
Lathe Operator

Lathe Operator

Kaney, Inc

Freeland, MI • On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

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




Kaney logo

About Kaney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Rockford, IL, US

View All Kaney Jobs