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Wheel Lathe Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ability to set-up a CNC lathe (including work holding, kitting of tools, touching off of tools ... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

Able to lift wheels up to 60 lbs. Required PPE : Steel toed footwear with slip guard, safety glasses, hearing protection, proper gloves, and respirator (all PPE with exception of footwear will be ...

CNC Lathe Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

Able to lift wheels up to 60 lbs. Required PPE : Steel toed footwear with slip guard, safety glasses, hearing protection, proper gloves, and respirator (all PPE with exception of footwear will be ...

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Wheel Lathe information

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$13

$22

$28

How much do wheel lathe jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel lathe 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 wheel lathe?

A wheel lathe is a specialized type of lathe used primarily in the railway industry to machine and re-profile the wheels of trains and trams. It restores the correct profile and diameter of wheelsets by removing worn or damaged material, ensuring smooth and safe operation. Wheel lathes can work with the wheels still mounted on the axles, and in some cases, even while they are still on the train, minimizing downtime. Regular maintenance with a wheel lathe extends the lifespan of the wheels and enhances overall safety. This equipment is vital for maintaining proper wheel geometry, which is crucial for safe railway operations.

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

To thrive as a Wheel Lathe Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and experience with industrial lathes, often backed by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC controls, precision measuring instruments, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently are vital soft skills for this position. These competencies ensure accurate machining, equipment safety, and efficient workflow in manufacturing or rail industry settings.

What are some of the common challenges faced by a wheel lathe operator, and how can they be addressed?

Wheel Lathe operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards, ensuring precise machining to avoid defects, and managing the wear and tear of both tools and machinery. Adhering to detailed safety protocols, staying vigilant about equipment maintenance, and following quality control procedures are essential for overcoming these issues. Effective communication with maintenance teams and continuous skill development also help operators stay efficient and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Wheel Lathe vs Brake Lathe?

AspectWheel LatheBrake Lathe
Primary FunctionReshapes and repairs wheel rims and tiresResurfaces and repairs brake rotors and drums
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, manufacturing facilitiesAuto repair shops, service centers
CredentialsMechanical skills, basic certificationsMechanical skills, basic certifications
Industry UsageAutomotive, tire serviceAutomotive, brake service

Both Wheel Lathe and Brake Lathe technicians work in automotive repair environments and require similar mechanical skills and certifications. While a Wheel Lathe focuses on repairing wheel rims, a Brake Lathe specializes in resurfacing brake rotors and drums. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service specialization within the automotive industry.

More about Wheel Lathe jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Lathe jobs?

The most popular types of Wheel Lathe jobs are:

Infographic showing various Wheel Lathe job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,817 per year, or $22 per hour.

CNC Lathe Operator - 2nd Shift

Howmet Aerospace

Fullerton, CA

$25 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California.  We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

 Basic Qualifications

  • 3-5 years of operation experience with CNC Lathes (Takisawa).
  • Ability to set-up a CNC lathe (including work holding, kitting of tools, touching off of tools/establishing offsets, reading of manufacturing drawings, and first article buy-off) on FANUC controls.
  • Experience with utilizing a pre-setter off line for tool offsets
  • Experience with quick change tooling
  • Experience with macro programming and Mastercam or other major programming software
  • Knowledge of basic measuring tools, calipers, micrometers, comparators and math required
  • Solid understanding of GD&T with ability to read and interpret drawing requirements

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift 30 lbs.

Salary Range: $25.00-$29.00 per hour + shift differential

Position Overview:

As a CNC operator, you'll be part of our team located in Fullerton, CA.

 

Key Responsibilities:

'         Manufacture products in accordance with engineering drawings

'         Check product dimensions utilizing proper equipment

'         Record, as required, all productivity on company system

Clean and maintain machinery according to department and company standards.


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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888