Machine Operator - Lathe

Piping Technology & Products, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Piping Technology & Products, Inc. in Houston is seeking a Lathe Machine Operator to set up and operate a manual lathe, interpret blueprints, and maintain part quality in a fast-paced shop environment.

You will select tooling, adjust speeds/feeds, perform turning and finishing operations, and inspect parts to ensure dimensional accuracy while following safety protocols and supporting production schedules.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED.
• 2+ years of manual lathe machining experience on Bridgeport or similar machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and drawings including GD&T symbols.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; able to follow instructions in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a lathe and related manual machining equipment.
• Read blueprints and work orders to determine tooling, speeds, and feeds.
• Machine parts to precise tolerances using manual controls.
• Inspect finished parts with calipers, micrometers, and gauges; verify dimensions.

Skills

Blueprint reading

GD&T knowledge

Manual lathe operation

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Bridgeport lathe

Measuring tools

Job description

About Piping Technology & Products (PT&P)

PT&P is a trusted leader in the design and manufacturing of engineered products for piping systems, proudly serving industries like oil & gas, power, and chemicals since 1978.

Headquartered in Houston, we’re known for innovation, quality, and customer commitment.

Join our team and help deliver solutions that keep critical infrastructure running safely and efficiently.

Position Summary

The Lathe Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a manual lathe (Bridgeport or similar equipment) to machine metal parts according to specifications. This role ensures parts meet quality, safety, and dimensional requirements while supporting production schedules in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a lathe machine and related manual machining equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings.
• Select and install the correct tooling, cutting speeds, and feeds for each job.
• Machine parts to precise tolerances using manual controls.
• Perform turning, facing, drilling, tapping, threading, boring, grooving, and other machining operations.
• Measure finished parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision inspection tools.
• Verify that all machined parts meet dimensional, quality, and surface-finish requirements.
• Adjust machine settings to maintain accuracy and meet specifications.
• Identify material or dimensional discrepancies and report issues to the Supervisor.
• Perform daily preventive maintenance on machines, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection.
• Replace worn tooling and notify the Supervisor of needed repairs or parts.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow all safety protocols, including machine-guarding, PPE usage, and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Review job travelers and ensure proper routing, documentation, and part labeling.
• Communicate delays, material shortages, or equipment issues to the Supervisor.
• Assist with training new machinists or helpers as needed.
• Support other machine shop operations when required (Bridgeport milling machine experience is a plus).

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• 2+ years of manual lathe machining experience (Bridgeport or similar machines).
• Strong knowledge of manual machining principles, tool geometry, and feeds/speeds.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T symbols, and machining drawings.
• Good communication skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams
• Ability to follow instructions and work in a team environment.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast‑paced environment.
• Must be able to pass pre‑employment screenings and background checks
• Strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and teamwork.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods (8+ hours)
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. independently
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and manual handling of materials required
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
• Ability to tolerate noise, heat, and dust in a manufacturing environment
• Visual acuity to read measuring tools, drawings, and detect quality defects
• Must pass initial and ongoing physical or occupational health screenings (e.g., lifting assessment, vision test, hearing test, etc.)
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including steel-toe boots, gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection

Work Environment

Manufacturing floor with exposure to moving mechanical parts, sharp materials, and moderate to loud noise. May be exposed to hot or cold environments depending on season. Work schedule may include overtime, weekend shifts, or on‑call schedules as needed.