CNC Lathe Operator

City of Altoona, PA; Altoona (PA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Altoona, PA is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Operator to set up and run Mazak and HAAS lathes, producing components per drawings and specs.

The role emphasizes adherence to production schedules, quality standards, and workplace safety. Candidates should have at least 3 years of CNC lathe experience, strong measurement skills, and the ability to work independently while supporting continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions.
• Experience with CNC turning equipment in manufacturing.
• Ability to read specifications and ensure quality.

Responsibilities

• Program, set-up, and operate CNC lathes (Mazak/HAAS) and related equipment.
• Load materials and monitor cycles to maintain efficient production.
• Follow production schedules and priorities to support on-time delivery.
• Perform routine operational and tool offset adjustments within procedures.
• Inspect parts using calipers, micrometers, and gauges to ensure conformance.

Skills

CNC Lathe

Mazak HAAS

Read blueprints

Precision measuring

Troubleshooting

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauges

Job description

The CNC Lathe Operator is responsible for operating CNC turning equipment, including Mazak and HAAS, to produce quality components in accordance with production schedules, specifications, and established quality standards. This position monitors machine performance, performs routine operational and tool offset adjustments within established procedures, performs in-process inspections, and identifies and communicates machine, tooling, or quality concerns. The ideal candidate has experience operating CNC lathes or similar CNC turning equipment in a manufacturing environment and demonstrates strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while supporting production goals, safety requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, Set-up, and Operate CNC lathes (Mazak and HAAS) and related production equipment in accordance with established procedures, work instructions, and safety requirements.
• Load raw materials and components and monitor machine cycles to maintain efficient production.
• Follow production schedules and work priorities to support on-time delivery requirements.
• Perform routine operational adjustments and tool offset adjustments within the scope of training and established procedures.
• Monitor tooling condition and communicate tooling concerns or replacement needs to the appropriate personnel.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using appropriate measuring equipment, including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, job travelers, and work instructions.
• Verify that parts meet required dimensional and quality specifications and promptly report nonconforming material or quality concerns.
• Identify and communicate machine, tooling, programming, or operational issues to the appropriate Setup, Maintenance, or Supervisory personnel and assist with troubleshooting as directed.
• Assist with machine setups and changeovers as directed and within the scope of training.
• Maintain accurate production, inspection, and downtime documentation.
• Monitor material levels and communicate production or material needs to the appropriate personnel.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company and safety requirements.
• Follow all applicable safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Support continuous improvement, scrap reduction, quality, and efficiency initiatives.
• Assist with training and supporting other operators as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and operational needs.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of CNC lathe in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Basic understanding of CNC machining processes, tooling, offsets, and routine machine adjustments.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to recognize quality issues and take appropriate action.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining production, quality, and safety standards.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the scheduled shift.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime based on production demands and operational needs. Must be available to work overtime as needed to support production demands and business needs.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Manufacturing floor environment with exposure to noise, moving machinery, and industrial lubricants
• Abi ity to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
• Use of required personal protective equipment