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Turret Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cnc Lathe Machinist

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$26.50 - $29/hr

The role involves operating a Single Spindle Twin Turret Lathe to manufacture fire fighting equipment, including handline nozzles, apparatus valves and fittings, industrial valves, adapters, caps ...

Cnc Lathe Machinist

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$26.50 - $29/hr

The role involves operating a Single Spindle Twin Turret Lathe to manufacture fire fighting equipment, including handline nozzles, apparatus valves and fittings, industrial valves, adapters, caps ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$20 - $25.50/hr

Our CNC operators are responsible for operating CNC Lathes, performing a series of operations such ... Indexes turret and adjusts positions of tools at each station in relation to work piece to assure ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$20 - $25.50/hr

Our CNC operators are responsible for operating CNC Lathes, performing a series of operations such ... Indexes turret and adjusts positions of tools at each station in relation to work piece to assure ...

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Turret Lathe Operator information

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$13

$22

$28

How much do turret lathe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for turret 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Turret Lathe Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Turret Lathe Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, a solid understanding of machining processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with vocational training in machine operation. Familiarity with precision measurement tools, blueprints, and CNC or manual lathe systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient, safe, and precise machining of parts, which is critical for maintaining production standards and equipment longevity.

What are Turret Lathe Operators?

Turret Lathe Operators are skilled machinists who operate turret lathes, a type of machine tool used to produce precision metal parts. They set up, adjust, and monitor these machines to perform tasks such as turning, facing, and threading on metal workpieces. Turret lathes are equipped with a rotating turret that holds various tools, allowing for efficient and repetitive machining operations. Operators must read blueprints, select appropriate tools, and maintain the equipment to ensure quality and safety. This role is essential in manufacturing industries that require detailed and accurate metal components.

What is the difference between Turret Lathe Operator vs CNC Lathe Operator?

AspectTurret Lathe OperatorCNC Lathe Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentManual machine shop, workshopManufacturing plant, automated environment
Industry UsageMachining, metalworkingPrecision manufacturing, aerospace, automotive
Job FocusManual operation, setup, and adjustment of turret lathesProgramming, operating CNC machines, precision control

While both roles involve machining metal parts, a Turret Lathe Operator manually operates turret lathes, focusing on setup and adjustments. A CNC Lathe Operator works with computer-controlled machines, emphasizing programming and automation. The choice depends on the level of automation and technical skills required in the manufacturing process.

What are some common challenges a Turret Lathe Operator faces on the job, and how can they be managed?

Turret Lathe Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive machining tasks, managing tool wear, and ensuring machine safety. Staying attentive to detail and regularly inspecting both equipment and finished parts can help maintain quality and prevent errors. It's also important to communicate effectively with maintenance teams and supervisors to address any mechanical issues promptly. Continuous learning and adapting to new machining techniques or updated equipment can further help operators stay efficient and minimize downtime.
More about Turret Lathe Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Turret Lathe Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Turret Lathe Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Turret Lathe Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.
Lathe Machine Operator

Lathe Machine Operator

Automation Personnel Services

Clearwater, FL

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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

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