CNC Lathe Operator

AMETEK Inc.; Keene (NH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

AMETEK, Inc. in Keene, NH is seeking an entry-level CNC Lathe Operator I to set up and operate manual and CNC lathes, perform basic turning, inspection, and manufacturing tasks in accordance with drawings and procedures.

You will use ProtoTRAK CNC lathes, basic measuring tools, follow safety policies, and support quality and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical training in machining/manufacturing preferred.
• Basic understanding of reading engineering drawings and instructions.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes to produce components per drawings and work instructions.
• Perform turning, facing, drilling, boring, and threading operations as required.
• Verify dimensional accuracy using inspection tools.
• Maintain cleanliness and organize work areas.
• Set up and operate ProtoTRAK CNC lathes with existing programs.
• Load, verify, and execute established programs.
• Identify tooling, material, setup, and machine-related issues.
• Monitor operations to ensure specification compliance.
• Inspect completed components to verify print requirements.
• Perform operator-level maintenance and inspections.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Technical machining/manufacturing training

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

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Business Unit: Ophthalmic & Precision Solutions

Posting Date: Oct 22, 2026

Job Description:

The CNC Lathe Operator I is an entry-level machining professional responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC lathe equipment to produce components that meet engineering, quality, and customer requirements. This position performs basic turning operations, material preparation, cleaning, finishing, inspection, and production support activities while adhering to established safety and quality standards.

The CNC Lathe Operator I develops foundational machining skills through hands-on operation of manual and CNC equipment, blueprint interpretation, precision measurement, and manufacturing best practices. This role serves as the first step in the CNC Lathe career progression path.

What you’ll be doing:

• Set up and operate manual lathes to produce components according to engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Perform turning, facing, drilling, boring, and threading operations as required.
• Verify dimensional accuracy using appropriate inspection tools.
• Perform routine operator-level maintenance and equipment inspections.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.
• Set up and operate ProtoTRAK CNC lathes utilizing existing programs.
• Load, verify, and execute established programs.
• Identify tooling, material, setup, and machine-related issues.
• Monitor machining operations to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Inspect completed components to verify print requirements.
• Perform operator-level preventative maintenance and operational checks.
• Set up and operate bead blasting equipment.
• Process components to achieve specified surface finish requirements.
• Verify cosmetics and finish requirements are met.
• Set up and operate dual-action sanding equipment.
• Prepare and finish parts according to work instructions and finish specifications.
• Set up and operate horizontal band saws to cut raw materials to work order dimensions.
• Verify material size and cut accuracy.
• Perform routine operator-level maintenance.
• Set up and operate vertical band saws to cut materials to required dimensions.
• Follow work instructions and safety procedures.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections.
• Load and unload materials and components safely.
• Operate stress relief ovens according to established procedures.
• Verify cycle completion and document processing requirements.
• Load, unload, and operate ultrasonic cleaning equipment.
• Verify cleanliness standards are achieved.

Utilize basic measurement and inspection equipment including:

• Calipers
• Dial Indicators
• Depth Gauges
• Thread Gauges
• Ring Gauges
• AMP 950 Systems
• Gage Heads
• Strip Chart Recorders

Inspection Responsibilities

• Perform basic dimensional inspections.
• Document inspection results accurately.
• Identify nonconforming conditions and notify appropriate personnel.
• Verify parts meet drawing requirements prior to completion.

Demonstrate safe and effective use of:

• Metric and Standard Wrenches
• Ratchets and Sockets
• Screwdrivers
• Allen Wrenches
• Torx Drivers
• Basic assembly and adjustment tools
• Maintain tools in good working condition and utilize them in accordance with company procedures.
• Accurately clock into and out of jobs using the Visual ERP system.
• Record labor transactions properly.
• Ensure production data is entered accurately and timely.
• Follow all work orders and documentation requirements.

The CNC Lathe Operator I is responsible for following all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.

• Utilize required personal protective equipment based on assigned tasks and work areas.
• Perform daily inspections of hoists and cranes.
• Identify safe lifting points and proper lifting devices.
• Follow approved lifting procedures.
• Locate, access, and print Safety Data Sheets as required.
• Understand basic SDS information and hazard communication requirements.
• Perform daily ladder inspections.
• Follow ladder safety practices and fall protection requirements.
• Recognize basic electrical hazards.
• Report unsafe conditions appropriately.
• Follow established safety procedures when working around electrical equipment.
• Perform daily forklift inspections.
• Understand forklift load limits and operating requirements.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the forklift stability triangle.
• Understand when lockout/tagout procedures are required.
• Follow established lockout/tagout procedures and safety practices.
• Recognize potentially hazardous materials.
• Understand basic chemical safety requirements.
• Follow company hazard communication procedure

This is what you’ll need to be successful in this role

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical training in machining, manufacturing, or related fields are preferred.
• Previous manufacturing, machining, mechanical, or technical experience preferred.
• Entry-level candidates with mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.
• Basic understanding of machining and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with precision measuring tools.
• Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use ERP systems.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Compensation

Employee Type: Hourly

Currency: USD

Salary Minimum: 50,000

Salary Maximum: 60,000

Incentive: No

Disclaimer:Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.

AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.5billion.

AMETEK is committed to making a safer, sustainable, and more productive world a reality. We use differentiated technology solutions to solve our customers’ most complex challenges. We employ 22,000colleagues, in 35countries, that are grounded by our core values: Ethics and Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Social Responsibility. AMETEK isacomponent of the S&P 500. Visit https://www.ametek.com/careers for more information.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process should call 1 [phone].