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Turret Lathe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turret lathe operators are also welcome and will be cross-trained onto Swiss equipment. The shop is air-conditioned, uses water-based coolant, and stays quiet. What You'll Be Doing * Run 2-3 Swiss ...

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Manual Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Manual Machinist (Lathe, Boring Mill & Vertical Turret Lathe) Position Summary We are seeking a skilled Manual Machinist with strong experience operating conventional/manual machine tools, including ...

Set up and operate a range of lathes, including manual vertical turret lathes, manual horizontal ... Preferred, particularly with parts weighing over 1000 lbs. • Lathe Experience: Beneficial to have ...

CNC Lathe Setup Operator

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

... Lathe Setup Operator to set up and run CNC turning centers at our Plymouth, MI facility. This role ... Responsibilities • Set up and operate CNC lathes and turning centers, including multi-turret and ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Clearwater, FL

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

... operating, and maintaining Eurotech CNC lathes with triple turret configurations to produce high ... Previous CNC lathe machining experience (preferably Eurotech or similar multi-turret, multi-axis ...

Set up and operate a range of lathes, including manual vertical turret lathes, manual horizontal ... Preferred, particularly with parts weighing over 1000 lbs. · Lathe Experience: Beneficial to have ...

Machinist - HIIM

Newport News, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

... mill operators for 3rd shift as well as manual engine lathe machinists familiar with cutting ... Turret Lathe, CNC lathe and TRAK Mill w/Proto trak Control and Conventional Engine lathe. * Read ...

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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 Sep 3, 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 is a turret lathe operator?

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 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.

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 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.

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.

CNC Vertical Turret Lathe Machinist-York,Pennsylvania

Billet Industries

York, PA • On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Main Job Duties
Setup and operate CNC Vertical Turret Lathe to fabricate metallic and nonmetallic parts by performing the following duties.
Key Objectives
  • Setup and operate VTLs - Utilize knowledge of working properties and machining processes for a wide variety of materials such as stainless steel, Monel, Hastalloy, other nickel alloys, cast iron, carbon steel, bronze, aluminum, plastics, etc.
  • Manufacture components within the allotted time estimates provided on job travelers.
  • Ensure customer satisfaction with products and service.
  • Make process recommendations for improved efficiency and works with the CNC Programmer to optimize processes, programs and cutting tools.
  • Take a proactive approach to continuous improvement including productivity, quality, safety, environmental and ergonomics.

Essential Job Functions
  • Setup, and operate VTLs with minimal supervision.
  • Must have Proficient Knowledge of G Code with the ability to perform manual CNC program edits as required to complete job work scope.
  • Read and interpret customer drawings with an understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerances per ANSI Y-14.5.
  • Inspect work produced (1st piece and in-process inspection) using precision measuring equipment including: micrometers, bore gauges, dial calipers, or other measuring instruments to verify conformance to specifications. Maintain tolerances as close as 0.002" over 55" diameter.
  • Where required, document inspection results on supplied IDS Sheets and/or Inspection Prints.
  • Keep equipment (machine, gauging, tooling, etc) clean and well maintained and maintain a clean and orderly work area.
  • Follow preventative maintenance procedures on equipment as prescribed by the supervisor and report operating difficulties of equipment.
  • Document daily activities to assure performance in accordance with job standards.
  • Work effectively with peers and management in a team-oriented environment, assisting/training other employees as required.
  • Willing to work overtime when needed to satisfy customer requirements.
  • Employee may be required to operate forklifts and have the ability to safely rig and handle products up to 4 tons.
  • Must be able to stand, twist, bend, and repeatedly lift up to 50 lbs. Must be able to use hands and vision to complete coordinated actions.
  • Work practices to be in accordance with Company Policies including, but not limited to attendance, confidentiality, safety and substance abuse.
  • The employee may be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job related tasks as required, subject to applicable state and federal law.

Additional Qualifications
The following skills and qualifications are a plus but are not required for this position.
  • Mastercam Programming experience.
  • Ability to setup & operate Horizontal Boring Mills, and/or Horizontal/Vertical Machine Centers.
  • Experience working in an ISO-9001 or AS9100 Quality Environment.