Manual Lathe Operataor

Ftc USA; California; Hybrid; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Ftc USA is seeking a Manual Lathe Operator to set up and run manual lathes, performing turning, drilling, threading, and finishing per engineering drawings. You will inspect parts with precision tools and troubleshoot setup issues to ensure quality and dimensional accuracy.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, 1+ year in production machining, and the ability to work with minimal supervision in a shop environment. Opportunity to grow in a manufacturing team.

Qualifications

• Reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience setting up and operating manual lathes or similar equipment.
• Ability to read measurements and maintain close tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes to perform turning, knurling, drilling, tapping, reaming, and related operations.
• Install tooling, collets, tool holders, stops, and indexing mechanisms.
• Adjust tooling clearances, speeds, feeds, and timing to achieve required tolerances.
• Perform test runs to verify setup and make necessary corrections.
• Monitor machining processes and make adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Regulate cutting oil flow, remove chips, and maintain a clean and safe work area.
• Perform basic machine maintenance, including oil changes and routine upkeep.
• Diagnose machine malfunctions or setup issues and implement corrective actions.
• Work from blueprints, specifications, and work instructions to produce conforming parts.
• Inspect finished components using precision measuring equipment.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Manual lathe operation

Troubleshooting

Precision work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Optical comparator

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauge blocks

Verniers

Fixed plug gauges

Job description

The Manual Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and operating manual lathes to machine precision components to close tolerances. This role supports the production of both standard and custom parts by performing turning, drilling, threading, and finishing operations in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications.

Success in this position requires strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and the ability to independently set up and troubleshoot machining operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes to perform turning, knurling, drilling, tapping, reaming, counter-boring, and deep drilling operations.
• Install and secure tooling, collets, tool holders, stops, and indexing mechanisms.
• Adjust tooling clearances, speeds, feeds, and timing to achieve required tolerances.
• Perform test runs to verify setup and make necessary corrections.
• Monitor machining processes andmake adjustments tomaintain dimensional accuracy.
• Regulate cutting oil flow, remove chips, and maintain a clean and safe work area.
• Perform basic machine maintenance, including oil changes and routine upkeep.
• Diagnose machine malfunctions or setup issues and implement corrective actions.
• Work from blueprints, specifications, and work instructions to produce conforming parts.
• Inspect finished components using precision measuring equipment.

Inspection & Measurement Tools

• Optical comparator
• Calipers and micrometers
• Verniers and gauge blocks
• Fixed plug and limit gauges

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 1 year of general production machining experience.
• 1â2 years of experience setting up and operating manual lathes or similar equipment preferred.
• Strong understanding of manual lathe setup and operation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience working to close tolerances.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Manufacturing/shop environment.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts, cutting fluids, and metal chips.

PPErequiredin accordance with company safety standards.

Pay Range:

$21/hr - $24/hr with 15% Shift Differential

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Posted Date16 Sep 2026

LocationValley Glen
CA /United States

IndustryProcurement, Manufacturing & Transport