Manual Lathe Operator — Job Description
Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled Manual Lathe Operator to set up, operate, and maintain manual
engine lathes to produce precision metal components. The ideal candidate has strong
machining knowledge, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to read and interpret
technical drawings.
Key Responsibilities
• Lathe Setup — Select tooling, install workholding, set speeds/feeds, and prepare
machines for production.
• Manual Machining — Perform turning, facing, threading, drilling, boring, grooving,
and taper operations on a variety of metals.
• Blueprint Interpretation — Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T
symbols, and work instructions.
• Precision Measurement — Use micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, bore gauges,
and other metrology tools to verify tolerances.
• Quality Control — Inspect parts during and after machining, document results, and
adjust processes as needed.
• Machine Maintenance — Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs
to keep equipment in optimal condition.
• Safety Compliance — Follow all shop safety procedures, including PPE use,
lockout/tagout, and safe material handling.
Required Skills & Qualifications
• Manual Lathe Experience — 2–5 years preferred, depending on complexity of work.
• Blueprint Reading — Ability to interpret tolerances, surface finishes, and machining
symbols.
• Machining Math — Strong understanding of shop math, including decimals,
fractions, and basic trigonometry.
• Tooling Knowledge — Familiarity with cutting tools, inserts, tool geometry, and
material behavior.
• Material Knowledge — Experience machining steel, aluminum, brass, stainless,
and specialty alloys.
• Problem Solving — Ability to diagnose chatter, poor finish, tolerance drift, and
other machining issues.
Preferred Qualifications
• Threading Experience — Internal and external threading using manual methods.
• CNC Exposure — Not required, but helpful for cross-training.
• Welding or Fabrication — Optional but beneficial in a mixed-discipline shop.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs
• Standing for extended periods
• Manual dexterity and steady hand-eye coordination
• Comfortable working around oils, coolants, and industrial equipment
Work Environment
• Fast-paced machine shop
• Mix of prototype, repair, and production work
• Emphasis on precision, safety, and craftsmanship
