Manual Machine Operator - Matrix 3rd Shift

Patterson-UTI; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Patterson-UTI in Fort Worth, TX is seeking a Manual Machine Operator to operate manual mills, lathes, and related equipment in a safety‑driven shop environment.

You will read blueprints, set up machines, measure parts with calipers and micrometers, and help maintain quality and efficiency while supporting team goals.

The role requires attention to detail, basic math skills, ability to lift up to 50 lbs, and a commitment to following all company procedures and safety standards.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• 6 months experience operating manual mills/lathes or welding.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Operate manual mills and lathes to produce precision parts.
• Perform welding and deburring as required to meet specs.
• Interpret blueprints and work orders for accurate machining.
• Set up and align machinery with proper tooling.
• Use calipers, micrometers, and gauges to verify dimensions.
• Apply geometry and trig to calculate tolerances.
• Monitor performance and adjust for quality and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and tools.
• Follow safety and quality policies at all times.
• Support maintenance to keep machines running.
• Troubleshoot issues and escalate to supervision when needed.
• Collaborate with team to implement process improvements.
• Assist with other shop duties as needed.

Skills

Manual milling & turning

Measuring tools

Blueprint interpretation

Quality assurance

Teamwork

Math skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

Brief Description:

The Manual Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining manual machinery, including mills, lathes, and other equipment, to produce precision components. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the highest quality standards in manufacturing by adhering to engineering specifications, safety protocols, and company procedures.

The Manual Machine Operator works under the direction of and will report to the Manufacturing Supervisor.

Detailed Description:

• Operate manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other non-CNC machinery to produce precision parts according to technical specifications.
• Perform welding and deburring tasks as required to meet product specifications and quality standards.
• Interpret and follow blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, and bit documentation to ensure accurate machining and assembly.
• Set up and align machinery, ensuring proper tool selection and installation for each job.
• Use various measuring equipment, such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges, to inspect and verify dimensions of finished products.
• Apply basic mathematical concepts, including geometry and trigonometry, to calculate dimensions and tolerances.
• Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain product quality and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean and organized personal workstation, ensuring tools and equipment are in good working order.
• Follow all safety and quality policies to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Perform routine maintenance on manual machines to ensure their optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Identify and troubleshoot issues with machines, tooling, or workpieces, escalating complex problems to supervisors when necessary.
• Collaborate with team members to identify and implement opportunities for process improvement.
• Perform other shop duties as required to support manufacturing operations.

Job Requirements:

• Proficiency in operating and maintaining manual mills, lathes, and related equipment.
• Ability to interpret and work from technical blueprints, schematics, and documentation.
• Familiarity with measuring tools and quality assurance processes.
• Basic welding and deburring skills.
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity to handle precision work.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with peers and supervisors.
• Basic math skills, including geometry and trigonometry, to calculate dimensions and tolerances.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 6 months of experience operating manual mills and lathes or welding with similar experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of machine shop safety standards and best practices.
• Familiarity with basic maintenance and troubleshooting of manual machinery.

Additional Details:

The Manual Machine Operator must work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties. The typical work environment will be in the shop or field which will require exposure to outdoor weather conditions, loud noise, working near moving mechanical parts, electrical energy, construction equipment, vibration, fumes, chemicals, and airborne particles