Manual Lathe Operator

About the role

The Manual Lathe Operator sets up, adjusts and operates manual lathes to machine precision components to close tolerances, supporting the production of standard and custom parts through turning, drilling, threading and finishing. Success requires strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills and the ability to set up and troubleshoot machining operations independently.

Key responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes for turning, knurling, drilling, tapping, reaming, counter-boring and deep drilling.
• Install and secure tooling, collets, tool holders, stops and indexing mechanisms.
• Adjust tooling clearances, speeds, feeds and timing to meet required tolerances, and run test runs to verify setups.
• Maintain dimensional accuracy, regulate cutting oil flow, remove chips and keep the work area clean and safe.
• Perform basic machine maintenance such as oil changes and routine upkeep, and diagnose and fix machine problems.
• Produce conforming parts from blueprints, specifications and work instructions, and inspect finished components with precision measuring equipment.

Required profile

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 1 year of general production machining experience; 1-2 years setting up and operating manual lathes preferred.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a manufacturing/shop environment, where exposure to moving parts, cutting fluids and metal chips occurs and PPE is required.

Required skills

• Blueprint and technical drawing interpretation.
• Manual lathe setup and operation.
• Solid shop math and experience working to close tolerances.
• Troubleshooting and attention to detail.

Inspection tools used

• Optical comparator, calipers and micrometers, dial indicators, verniers and gauge blocks.
• Thread gauges, fixed plug and limit gauges.

Pay

• $21-$24 per hour, with a 15% shift differential.