Manual Lathe Operator

Ftc USA; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Unknown Company in Los Angeles, CA seeks a Manual Lathe Operator to set up, adjust and run manual lathes to manufacture precision parts per engineering drawings and specifications.

The role requires literacy in blueprints, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to troubleshoot machining operations while maintaining quality and safety standards in a shop environment.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 1 year of general production machining experience.
• Experience setting up and operating manual lathes or similar equipment.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience working to close tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes for turning and drilling operations.
• Install tooling and secure holders and indexing mechanisms.
• Adjust speeds, feeds and tooling clearances to meet tolerances.
• Perform test runs and verify setup with measurements.
• Inspect finished components using precision measuring equipment.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprint reading

Independent setup

Troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Optical comparator

Calipers

Micrometers

Verniers

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

• 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.