Manual Lathe Operator

Fastener Technology Corp.; California; On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Fastener Technology Corp. in Valley Glen, CA is seeking a Manual Lathe Operator to set up, adjust, and operate manual lathes to produce precision components according to engineering drawings.

Candidates should have strong blueprint reading, the ability to troubleshoot machining operations, and a proven track record of maintaining close tolerances while following safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 1 year of general production machining experience.
• 1–2 years of manual lathe setup/operation preferred.
• 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.

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.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Manual lathe setup

Troubleshooting

Detail-oriented

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Optical comparator

Verniers

Gauge blocks

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

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 Date27 Oct 2026

LocationValley Glen
CA /United States

IndustryManufacturing & Transport