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Lathe Setup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M & S MACHINE & TOOL CO INC

CNC Lathe Setup

West Haven, CT · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

The CNC Lathe Setup position is responsible for accurately setting all tooling and making proper adjustments to achieve quality results in a job shop environment. The primary goal of this role is to ...

Proman Staffing

CNC Lathe Setup

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$21.50 - $27.25/hr

seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Set-Up Operator to join our Plant 2 team on 2nd shift. This role ... setup. * Program, edit, and troubleshoot G-code; utilize Mastercam or DMG conversational ...

New

A1J Technologies

CNC Lathe Setup Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $32.75/hr

Position Summary The CNC Lathe Setup Technician is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and preparing CNC lathes for production runs. This role ensures machines are properly tooled, programmed, and ...

A1J Technologies LLC

CNC Lathe Setup Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

Description Position Summary The CNC Lathe Setup Technician is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and preparing CNC lathes for production runs. This role ensures machines are properly tooled ...

P4SWISS LINDEL

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SWISS LATHE SETUP PROGRAMMER

Tuscon, AZ · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Position Summary The Swiss Lathe Setup Programmer is responsible for programming, setting up, troubleshooting, and optimizing Swiss-style CNC lathes to produce precision machined components that meet ...

South-Bay-Solutions

$60 - $80/hr

Minimum 5-7 years of Lathe setup experience. * Work with minimal supervision to resolve issues. * Must be able to setup from program notes & shop traveler. * Must be able to read & interpret prints ...

P4SWISS LINDEL

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SWISS LATHE SETUP PROGRAMMER

Tuscon, AZ · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Position Summary The Swiss Lathe Setup Programmer is responsible for programming, setting up, troubleshooting, and optimizing Swiss-style CNC lathes to produce precision machined components that meet ...

South Bay Solutions

CNC Lathe Setup(Swing)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Minimum 5-7 years of Lathe setup experience. * Work with minimal supervision to resolve issues. * Must be able to setup from program notes & shop traveler. * Must be able to read & interpret prints ...

South Bay Solutions

CNC Lathe Setup(Swing)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Minimum 5-7 years of Lathe setup experience. * Work with minimal supervision to resolve issues. * Must be able to setup from program notes & shop traveler. * Must be able to read & interpret prints ...

Advanced Machine, Inc.

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CNC Multi Axis Lathe Setup/Programmer

Winchester, TN · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

The CNC Multi Axis Lathe Setup/Programmer plays a critical role in machining both standard production parts and custom prototypes. As part of a team, this role involves setting up CNC machines ...

Area Temps

CNC Lathe Setup/Lead Operator

Berea, OH · On-site

$18/hr

A manufacturing company is seeking a CNC Lathe Setup/Lead who will be responsible for efficiently setting up, managing direct reports, running production CNC machines, maintaining good quality ...

TRIBUS

CNC Lathe Setup Operator - 1st Shift

Eastlake, OH · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

The CNC Lathe Setup Operator performs complete setups and at-machine program edits on Okuma, Mazak, Nakamura, Mori Seiki, and comparable CNC turning centers. This role is for an experienced setup ...

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All JobsLathe Setup Jobs

Lathe Setup information

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$15

$23

$32

How much do lathe setup jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lathe setup in the United States is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lathe setup?

Lathe setup workers are skilled technicians responsible for preparing and configuring lathes, which are machines used to shape metal, wood, or other materials. They install tools, set machine controls, and ensure the lathe operates according to specified requirements for each job. Their tasks include reading blueprints, choosing appropriate cutting tools, and performing test runs to verify accuracy. Proper setup helps ensure efficient, high-quality production and safe operation in manufacturing environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lathe setup operator?

To thrive as a Lathe Setup Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of machining processes, and experience with blueprint reading, often supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC and manual lathes, precision measuring tools like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes relevant certifications such as NIMS are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for maintaining quality and safety. These competencies ensure precise machining, minimize errors, and uphold production efficiency in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced when setting up a lathe, and how can they be overcome?

Lathe setup technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring precise alignment of workpieces, selecting the correct tooling, and setting accurate cutting parameters. Misalignment or improper setup can result in dimensional inaccuracies or tool damage. These challenges can be overcome by following detailed setup procedures, double-checking measurements with precision instruments, and collaborating closely with team members such as machinists and quality control inspectors. Continuous learning and adherence to safety protocols also help maintain high-quality results and minimize errors.

What is the difference between Lathe Setup vs Machinist?

AspectLathe SetupMachinist
Primary RolePreparing and configuring lathes for manufacturingOperating various machine tools to produce parts
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of lathe operation, blueprint reading, basic machining skillsBroader machining skills, certifications like CNC or manual machining
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, manufacturing plantsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, workshops
Typical TasksSetting up lathes, adjusting tools, ensuring precisionOperating machines, measuring parts, quality control

While Lathe Setup focuses on preparing lathes for production, Machinists operate various machines to create parts. Both roles require technical skills and work in similar environments, but Machinists have a broader scope of responsibilities across multiple machine types.

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Lathe Setup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lathe Setup job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,473 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

CNC Lathe Setup

M & S MACHINE & TOOL CO INC

West Haven, CT • On-site

$24 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the Role:

The CNC Lathe Setup position is responsible for accurately setting all tooling and making proper adjustments to achieve quality results in a job shop environment. The primary goal of this role is to prepare and configure CNC machines to meet production specifications and adhere to quality standards. Skills involve interpreting technical drawings, following instructions, setting work holding and tooling correctly, and maintaining tooling throughout production. The CNC Setup position plays a key role in minimizing downtime by troubleshooting setup issues and maintaining equipment readiness. Ultimately, this role supports production by ensuring CNC operations are continuously operable and delivering high-quality results. Machinist please do apply. 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Proven experience in CNC machine setup or a related manufacturing role.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints. 
  • Basic knowledge of CNC programming and machine operation.
  • Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Completion of a technical or vocational program in CNC machining or manufacturing technology.
  • Experience with specifically Fanuc CNC control systems (6+ years)
  • Hands on experience with precision measuring instruments like calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, comparators etc..
  • Critical thinker who has a continuous improvement mindset.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities:

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work orders to determine machine setup requirements.
  • Select, install, and align cutting tools, fixtures, and work holding devices on CNC machines.
  • Input and verify machine parameters and offsets to ensure accurate machining operations.
  • Perform trial runs and make necessary adjustments to achieve desired tolerances and surface finishes.
  • Collaborate with team to resolve setup issues and improve process efficiency.
  • Maintain detailed setup documentation and records for quality control and repeatability.
  • Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of CNC equipment to ensure operational reliability.
  • Adhere to safety protocols and company policies during all setup and machining activities.

Benefits:   ADP TOTAL SOURCE

100% paid Health Insurance for Employee, 

Offering Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Disability, and much more

 Simple IRA (3% match), PTO, paid Holidays