Lathe Operator

Aerotek; Auburn (CA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a CNC Lathe Operator in Auburn, CA to operate CNC lathes and produce precision components for pumps, following drawings and specifications. Depending on experience, you may handle setups or take full ownership of machine setup and operation in a modern, safety‑conscious shop.

The role requires blueprints interpretation, GD&T knowledge, and precision measurement with micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience operating CNC lathes, either through prior work experience or technical schooling.
• Ability to perform CNC lathe setup, including working with single and double spindle configurations.
• Experience with chucks in the range of approximately 8 to 10 inches.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.
• Basic knowledge of GD&T and its application to machined parts.
• Ability to use precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges to inspect parts.
• Foundational understanding of machining processes and machine operation best practices.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality components.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes to produce precision components for pumps and related products according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Perform machine setups on single and double spindle CNC lathes when qualified, including configuring chucks and tooling for production runs.
• Interpret and follow blueprints and technical drawings, ensuring parts meet dimensional and geometric requirements.
• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and other inspection tools to verify part quality.
• Apply GD&T principles to understand and achieve required tolerances.
• Monitor machine performance during operation, making adjustments as needed to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Collaborate with first-shift operators for machine setups when you are in a more junior capacity.
• Perform routine checks on equipment and workspace to maintain a safe, clean, and organized manufacturing environment.
• Communicate any production, quality, or equipment issues promptly to appropriate team members.
• Follow all established manufacturing procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards throughout the machining process.

Skills

CNC lathe operation

CNC setup (single/double spindle)

Blueprint reading

GD&T knowledge

Precision measurement

Quality inspection

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree in advanced manufacturing

Tools

Chucks 8-10 inches

Job description

Job Title: CNC Lathe Operator

Job Description

This role focuses on operating CNC lathes to support the design and manufacture of precision components such as gerotor pumps and gear pumps in a modern, well-established production facility of about 120 employees. The position is open to recent graduates with an associates degree in advanced manufacturing or a similar field, as well as experienced CNC lathe operators. Depending on experience, you may primarily run the lathe while more complex setups are handled by operators, or you may take full ownership of both machine setup and operation.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes to produce precision components for pumps and related products according to engineering drawings and specifications.

• Perform machine setups on single and double spindle CNC lathes when qualified, including configuring chucks and tooling for production runs.

• Interpret and follow blueprints and technical drawings, ensuring parts meet dimensional and geometric requirements.

• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and other inspection tools to verify part quality.

• Apply basic principles of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) to understand and achieve required tolerances and part features.

• Monitor machine performance during operation, making adjustments as needed to maintain quality and efficiency.

• Collaborate with first-shift operators for machine setups when you are in a more junior capacity.

• Perform routine checks on equipment and workspace to maintain a safe, clean, and organized manufacturing environment.

• Communicate any production, quality, or equipment issues promptly to appropriate team members.

• Follow all established manufacturing procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards throughout the machining process.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience operating CNC lathes, either through prior work experience or technical schooling.

• Ability to perform CNC lathe setup, including working with single and double spindle configurations.

• Experience working with chucks in the range of approximately 8 to 10 inches.

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.

• Basic knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and its application to machined parts.

• Ability to use precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges to inspect parts.

• Foundational understanding of machining processes and machine operation best practices.

• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate components.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associates degree in advanced manufacturing or a closely related technical discipline is preferred, especially for recent graduates.

• Experience with both CNC lathe setup and operation is highly valued, though candidates with varying experience levels are welcome.

• Familiarity with double spindle and single spindle lathe configurations.

• Comfort working with various chuck sizes and configurations on CNC equipment.

• Basic understanding of programming concepts related to CNC machines is a plus.

• Ability to work collaboratively with more experienced operators and learn from their expertise.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot minor machining and setup issues.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a performance-based annual bonus program starting at 2% and with the potential to double depending on site results, offering a clear link between team success and personal rewards. New hires receive a sign-on bonus, with additional support available for candidates relocating from outside the Bay Area. The organization invests in modern facilities and equipment, supports continuous learning, and welcomes individuals at different experience levels, creating a supportive environment for both career growth and long-term stability.

Work Environment

The role is based in a newer manufacturing building that is well lit, very clean, and organized, providing a comfortable and professional setting for precision machining work. You will work with modern CNC lathe equipment, including single and double spindle machines and chucks in the 8 to 10 inch range, alongside experienced operators in a collaborative shop environment. The facility emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and efficient workflows, supporting focused, hands‑on technical work in a high-quality production setting

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Auburn, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $58240.00 - $95680.00/yr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

CNC Lathe Operator Needs to have experience with-they will use single and double spindle-working with chucks around 8 and 10 inches-the person should know the basics of how to use micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, etc.-should know the basics of GD&T

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Auburn,CA.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.