CNC Lathe Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Element Materials Technology; Huntington Beach (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Element Materials Technology is seeking a reliable Machine Operator to set up, operate, and maintain machinery in a fast-paced production environment. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and efficiency, with focus on reading blueprints and inspecting parts to exact specifications.

The 2:00pm–10:30pm shift offers hourly pay from $22.00 to $24.00, plus a $3 differential, depending on experience. This position supports a rigorous quality program and teamwork across production lines.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; vocational training preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing or production is a plus.
• Experience with mills (manual or CNC) or metalworking machinery is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with basic machining processes like cutting, drilling or grinding.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot minor issues.
• Basic math and measurement skills; ability to read technical docs.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor machinery according to procedures and safety standards.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance.
• Read blueprints, work orders, or production schedules to determine instructions.
• Inspect parts and finished products using measuring tools.
• Record production data including output, downtime, and defects.
• Adjust machine settings to maintain specs and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily goals.
• Report mechanical issues or safety concerns to maintenance or supervision.
• Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and quality standards.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Independent worker

Math & measurement

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Vocational/Technical training preferred

Tools

Mills (manual or CNC)

Calipers & gauges

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operator (2nd shift) to set up, operate, and maintain machinery in a safe and efficient manner. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring equipment runs smoothly, producing high-quality parts or products according to specifications. This role plays a critical part in our production process, requiring attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safety and productivity.

Shift 1: 2:00pm - 10:30pm

Compensation: $22.00/hour to $24.00/hour (depending on experience) with a $3 Differential

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor assigned machinery and equipment according to established procedures and safety standards.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of machines to ensure optimal performance.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, or production schedules to determine job instructions.
• Inspect parts and finished products for quality and accuracy using measuring tools.
• Record production data, including output, downtime, and defects.
• Adjust machine settings as necessary to maintain product specifications and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily production goals.
• Report any mechanical issues or safety concerns to maintenance or supervisory staff.
• Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and quality control standards.

Skills / Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is a plus; vocational or technical training preferred.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment is a plus.
• Experience operating or working with mills (manual or CNC) or other metalworking machinery is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with machining processes such as cutting, drilling, or grinding.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, or schematics.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours or shifts as needed.

Work Environment

• Regular standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Use of hands and manual dexterity for precise machining and tool work.
• Exposure to loud noises, coolant, sharp tools, and metal shavings.

Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to ‘Make tomorrow safer than today’.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming “the world’s most trusted testing partner”.

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.