Manual Lathe Operator

Bolsan; California; On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Bolsan is seeking a Manual Lathe Operator in Valley Glen, CA to set up and operate manual lathes, turning parts to tight tolerances. You’ll read blueprints and inspect finished components with precision instruments.

Responsibilities include installing tooling, adjusting speeds and feeds, running tests, and ensuring clean, safe machining. A minimum of 1 year in production machining is required, with 1–2 years on manual lathes preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Minimum 1 year of general production machining experience.
• 1–2 years of setting up and operating manual lathes or similar equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience working to close tolerances and precise measurements.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical problem-solving skills.
• 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 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

Close tolerances

Independent worker

Machining experience

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Optical comparator

Calipers and micrometers

Verniers and gauge blocks

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 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.

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.
• 1–2 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.
• PPE required in 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

IndustryProcurement, Manufacturing & Transport