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Manual Lathe Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Practice basic and complicated machining procedures to ensure personal and coworker safety and ...

Stand-By Personnel

Manual Lathe

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Manual Lathe Machinist & CNC Mill & Lathe Operator Location: Southeast Tulsa | Pay: $23-$26 per hour | Schedule: Monday-Saturday, 5:00 AM-5:00 PM | Duration: Temp-to-Hire We are seeking a skilled ...

Dynamics ATS Organic

Manual Lathe Machinist

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Manual Lathe Machinist will be working a full-time, with pay rates anticipated to be $20 - 27 per hour based on each candidate's experience and education. All well-qualified candidates will be ...

Axian Technology Inc

Manual Lathe Machinist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The machinist will be responsible for operating manual lathes to overhaul critical aircraft parts ... Manual lathe experience is a must! Overhaul experience is a plus. This is a DOT rated position that ...

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How much do manual lathe machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for manual lathe machine operator in the United States is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manual lathe machine operator?

A Manual Lathe Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining manual lathes to shape and cut metal, plastic, or wood workpieces. They read blueprints, select appropriate cutting tools, and ensure precision in machining by adjusting speeds, feeds, and tool positions. Operators must inspect finished parts for accuracy and quality, making adjustments as needed. This role requires knowledge of machining techniques, tool maintenance, and safety practices.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a manual lathe machine operator?

As a Manual Lathe Machine Operator, your day usually involves setting up and operating manual lathe machines to shape metal or plastic parts according to engineering drawings. You’ll be responsible for measuring dimensions, monitoring machine performance, inspecting finished components for accuracy, and performing routine maintenance on equipment. Collaboration with machinists, engineers, and quality control teams is common to ensure that specifications are met. Over time, you’ll develop strong problem-solving abilities as you troubleshoot machine issues and resourcefully adapt to different production requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manual lathe machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manual Lathe Machine Operator, you should have a solid understanding of machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and experience reading technical drawings, often supported by a relevant technical certificate or apprenticeship. Familiarity with manual lathe machines, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and knowledge of metalworking standards are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team help operators excel in this role. These skills are essential for producing precision parts, maintaining safety, and ensuring efficient workflow in manufacturing environments.

Are manual lathe machine operators in demand?

Manual lathe machine operators are in steady demand in manufacturing and machining industries, especially where precision metalworking is required. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth, technical skills, and certifications, with experienced operators often preferred for complex tasks.

How much do manual lathe machine operators make?

Manual lathe machine operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in precision tools may earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing or industrial settings.
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Manual Lathe Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manual Lathe Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,587 per year, or $21 per hour.

Lathe Machine Operator

Automation Personnel Services

Clearwater, FL

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Lathe Machine Operator
Automation Personnel Services is looking for Lathe Machine Operators for a company based in Clearwater, FL. In this role, you will have the opportunity to advance your career while contributing to a leading manufacturer of precision machine components.  
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are mechanically inclined and have a passion for precision machining.
 
Pay Rate:
Starts at $20.00- $25.00 per hour; based on experience
Shift differential: $1.00 for 2nd shift and $2.00 for 3rd shift
 
Schedule and Hours:
Monday through Friday:
2nd shift: 3:15pm – 11:45pm; will train on 1st shift then move to 2nd shift
3rd shift: 11:15pm – 7:30am; will train on 1st shift then move to 3rd shift
 
Lathe Machine Operator Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate and maintain Lathe and CNC machines including Multi spindle, Multi axis machines, Yang, Eurotech Triple Turret Lathe, Ganesh Swiss Lather, Star Swiss Lathe, and Index 8 Axis Lathe machines.
  • Run quality parts at a specified rate and measure parts using various measuring equipment.
  • Read micrometers, calipers, blueprints, and schematics. 
  • Perform tool changes, adjustments, and minor repairs/maintenance to equipment.
  • Monitor machine operations to ensure that parts are produced according to specifications.
  • Inspect finished products for quality and accuracy.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment, adhering to all safety protocols.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production targets.
 
Lathe Machine Operator Qualifications & Requirements:
  • 1 + year of experience operating precision machines, engine lathes, or manual lathe machines. 
  • Mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn new techniques and machinery.
  • Ability to work effectively in a production environment.
  • Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 pounds (Lifting Assessment to be given in office)
 
Job Type 
Full-time, temporary to hire

Benefits 
• Weekly Pay
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Medical, dental, vision, short-term disability and life insurance
• 5 paid Vacation Days after 1 year of continuous service (paid as a service bonus)
• 6 paid Holidays after 1500 continuous hours of service within a calendar year

Interested in this job?
Click Apply Now, email your resume to apsTampa@apstemps.com, or call us at 813.888.7508 to learn more. You can also apply in person at our office located at 

Automation Personnel Services Tampa Branch
3918 West Hillsborough Ave.
Tampa, FL 33614

Bonus Opportunity!
We are also offering a $50.00 referral bonus. Both employee and referral must stay on assignment for 30 days to receive the payout.

About Automation Personnel Services
Automation Personnel Services is an award-winning staffing agency with more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and light-industrial staffing. Automation Personnel Services is the winner of the ClearlyRated® Best of Staffing Talent Award from 2019-2024, and the ClearlyRated® Best of Staffing Client Award from 2016-2024. Automation Personnel Services is also the recipient of the Safety Standard of Excellence Award by the American Staffing Association and was named one of the Best Staffing Companies to Work For 2022 by CIO Views Magazine. 

Our goal is finding you the right job!
Equal Opportunity Employer
APSTampa
 
 
Automation Personnel Services logo

About Automation Personnel Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Automation Personnel Services is an award-winning staffing agency with more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and light-industrial staffing. Automation Personnel Services is the winner of the ClearlyRated® Best of Staffing Talent Award in 2019-2022, and the ClearlyRated® Best of Staffing Client Award for seven straight years, 2016-2022. Automation Personnel Services is also the recipient of the Safety Standard of Excellence Award by the American Staffing Association.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1990

Social media

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