CNC Lathe Operator

Halma p.l.c; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 30,307 - 33,062; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k matching

FSA

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Job summary

A CNC Lathe Operator at Alicat Scientific will set up, operate, and monitor CNC lathes to manufacture precision parts from blueprints. You will load materials, tool up, run production cycles, and inspect parts using precision gauges in a busy machine shop.

The role requires 1–3+ years in CNC turning, a high school diploma or GED, and strong problem-solving skills. On-site, weekend/evening shift availability; compensation ranges $22–$24 per hour with benefits.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED; technical training or apprenticeship preferred.
• Experience: 1–3+ years in manufacturing, specifically CNC turning.
• Technical: Read engineering drawings/blueprints and CAD designs; basic G-code/M-code understanding.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes safely to perform turning, boring, threading and facing.
• Set up machines: load programs, set tools, touch-offs, change jaws/collets.
• Inspect finished parts with measurement tools for tolerances.
• Monitor output and adjust offsets, speeds, and feeds.
• Perform daily maintenance and keep work area clean.
• Follow safety protocols and wear PPE.

Skills

Reading engineering drawings

Attention to detail

Troubleshooting

Ability to work in a noisy environment

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

G-code/M-code familiarity

CAD drawings understanding

Job description

Instrumentation for better flow and pressure control

Alicat Scientific manufactures custom mass flow and pressure meters and controllers for gas and liquid applications; also supports scientific discovery and the development of technology by equipping our customers with advanced flow and pressure instrumentation essential to innovation.

Company: Alicat

Function: Operations

Job Type: Regular / Permanent

Role Type: Full time

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Job Description: CNC Lathe Operator

Location: Tucson, AZ (On-site)

Department: Machine Shop

Schedule: Weekend or Evening Shift Availability
Pay Range: $22.00-$24.00 per hour
Report To: Machine Shop Manager

About Alicat Scientific

Alicat manufactures mass flow and pressure instrumentation that is used in a wide range of industries. Our customers use these devices for applications including hydrogen energy research, space programs, vaccine development, and other scientific innovations.

Position Summary

A CNC Lathe Operator sets up, operates, and monitors computer-controlled lathes to machine precision parts based on blueprints. Key duties include loading raw materials, tooling the machine, setting offsets, running production cycles, inspecting finished parts with measuring tools, and performing routine maintenance.

Core Responsibilities

• Machine Operation: Safely operate CNC lathes to perform tasks such as turning, boring, threading, and facing.
• Setup: Perform machine setups, including loading programs, setting tools, tool touch-offs, and changing jaws or collets.
• Quality Inspection: Measure parts using precision tools (micrometers, calipers) to ensure compliance with blueprint tolerances.
• Adjustments: Monitor machine output and adjust tool offsets, speeds, and feeds to correct for wear or out-of-tolerance conditions.
• Maintenance & Cleanliness: Perform daily maintenance (lubrication, coolant checks) and keep the machine and work area clean.
• Safety Adherence: Wear required PPE (safety glasses, steel-toed boots) and follow all safety protocols.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED; technical training or apprenticeship is preferred.
• Experience: Ideally 1–3+ years of experience in manufacturing, specifically with CNC turning equipment.
• Technical Skills: Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD designs. Basic understanding of G-code/M-code and tool offsets.
• Mathematical Skills: Proficiency in basic math.
• High attention to detail.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, noisy environment
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave