1

Vtl Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manual VTL Operator/Machinist 1st Shift

Windsor, CT · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Operate horizontal and manual vertical lathes, milling and grinding machines, VTL's, Jig Bores, Bridgeports, rubber grinding, Prototrack, drill presses and other special shop equipment for repair of ...

Manual VTL Operator/Machinist 1st Shift

Windsor, CT · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Operate horizontal and manual vertical lathes, milling and grinding machines, VTL's, Jig Bores, Bridgeports, rubber grinding, Prototrack, drill presses and other special shop equipment for repair of ...

Manual VTL Operator/Machinist 1st Shift

Windsor, CT · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Operate horizontal and manual vertical lathes, milling and grinding machines, VTL's, Jig Bores, Bridgeports, rubber grinding, Prototrack, drill presses and other special shop equipment for repair of ...

CNC VTL Machinist

Columbia, CT · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

The CNC VTL Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating the CNC vertical turning lathes to produce complex precision aerospace components according to engineering drawings, specifications ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Vtl Operator information

See salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do vtl operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for vtl operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Vtl Operator vs Extrusion Operator?

AspectVtl OperatorExtrusion Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing, injection molding facilitiesPlastic extrusion lines, manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePlastic and rubber industriesPlastic manufacturing, packaging industries
Job FocusOperate VTL machines for moldingOperate extrusion machines for shaping materials

The Vtl Operator and Extrusion Operator roles both work in plastic manufacturing environments, requiring similar credentials and working with machinery. The main difference lies in the type of equipment operated: Vtl Operators focus on vertical turning lathes, while Extrusion Operators handle extrusion lines. Both roles are essential in plastic production, but they specialize in different manufacturing processes.

What are VTL Operators?

VTL Operators are professionals responsible for operating Vertical Turning Lathes (VTLs), which are specialized machines used in the manufacturing industry to shape large and heavy metal components. Their main duties include setting up the VTL machine, interpreting technical drawings, selecting and installing appropriate tools, and ensuring that finished products meet precise specifications. VTL Operators also perform routine maintenance on the equipment and monitor the machining process for quality and safety. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of machining techniques.

Can you make 100k as a CNC machinist?

A CNC machinist can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually with advanced skills, experience, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, specialization, and overtime can also influence earning potential. Entry-level positions typically pay less, but experienced CNC operators with specialized knowledge can reach or exceed this salary level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VTL Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VTL Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining processes, blueprint reading, and experience with Vertical Turning Lathes, usually supported by a technical diploma or relevant work experience. Familiarity with CNC programming, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators ensure precision and collaborate with team members. These abilities are crucial for maintaining quality, maximizing machine efficiency, and ensuring workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges VTL Operators face and how can they be addressed?

VTL Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining machine precision, troubleshooting minor mechanical issues, and managing production deadlines. Staying attentive to detail is crucial, as even minor misalignments can affect product quality. Regular preventive maintenance and clear communication with the maintenance team help minimize downtime. Developing strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with machine controls can make daily operations smoother and more efficient.

How hard is it to be a CNC operator?

Becoming a CNC operator requires learning to program and operate computer-controlled machines, which involves understanding technical drawings, measurements, and machining processes. It typically requires technical training or certification and attention to detail, but many find it manageable with proper training and practice.

How much do CNC operators get?

CNC operators typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in programming and machine setup can earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits.
More about Vtl Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Vtl Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 8% Full Time, 13% Temporary, 72% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Manual VTL Operator / Machinist 1st shift

Manual VTL Operator / Machinist 1st shift

chromalloy

Windsor, CT • On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Chromalloy rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

145th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Duties:

  • Operate horizontal and manual vertical lathes, milling and grinding machines, VTL's, Jig Bores, Bridgeports, rubber grinding, Prototrack, drill presses and other special shop equipment for repair of parts.
  • Work from process travelers, blueprints, parts drawings, manuals, specifications and verbal directions to determine proper dimensions and tolerances of finished part sequence of operation, and setup requirements.
  • Measure mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points on material
  • Modify parts and materials to improve overall production, test completed equipment to detect and remove defects, perform maintenance on machinery.

Knowledge:

Use of addition, subtraction, multiplication and the division of numbers including decimals fractions; simple use of formulas and specifications, where interpretation is required involving basic skill knowledge.

Requirements:

  • 2 years machining experience required
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Experience with different machine tools and equipment
  • Must be fluent in English, i.e. speaking, reading, writing

Physical Demand:

Moderate physical demand frequently lifting or moving average weight material.

  • Minimum lift floor to waist – 25 pounds
  • Minimum lift waist to shoulder level – 25 pounds
  • Minimum pull – 40 pounds

What Chromalloy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom