Manual Machinist - Lathe Operator

Maxcess; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Oklahoma City seeks an experienced Manual Machinist – Lathe Operator to set up and operate manual engine lathes in producing precision components. Candidates should possess strong skills in blueprint interpretation and machining operations with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. The role requires a strong focus on quality verification, tooling, and maintenance to ensure accurate fabrication. This is an opportunity to join a team committed to diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Five years of experience in manual lathe machining or combination of training and experience.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical instructions.
• Strong applied math skills, including geometry and trigonometry.
• Strong geometry and trigonometry for machining calculations.
• Problem-solving and adaptability to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual engine lathes to produce precision components.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Perform various lathe operations such as turning, facing, and boring.
• Inspect completed parts for dimensional accuracy and overall quality.
• Maintain and sharpen tools, fabricate basic fixtures.
• Inspect parts for dimensional accuracy and quality; adjust as needed.
• Record measurements and assist with prints or tooling feedback.

Skills

Manual lathe operation

Tooling selection

Precision measurement

Problem-solving skills

Applied math skills

Education

Certificate or diploma in machining technology

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Dial indicators

Job description

Manual Machinist – Lathe Operator

As a Manual Machinist – Lathe Operator, you will set up and operate manual engine lathes to produce precision components according to detailed blueprints, sketches, and work instructions. This role focuses on turning, facing, threading, boring, grooving, and other manual lathe operations used to fabricate, modify, and repair metal parts, tooling, and specialty components.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Blueprint Interpretation - Review and interpret engineering drawings, sketches, and specifications to determine machining requirements, sequence of operations, tooling needs, and material considerations.
• Lathe Setup and Operation - Set up manual lathes by selecting appropriate tooling, adjusting speeds and feeds, securing workpieces, and aligning components to achieve required tolerances.
• Precision Machining - Perform turning, facing, drilling, boring, grooving, threading, tapering, and polishing operations to fabricate parts to exact dimensions. Verify accuracy using micrometers, calipers, indicators, and other precision instruments.
• Tooling and Fixture Work - Grind, sharpen, and maintain cutting tools; fabricate basic fixtures or holding devices as needed to support unique machining requirements.
• Quality Verification - Inspect completed parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, alignment, and overall quality. Make adjustments during machining to maintain compliance with specifications.
• Equipment Care - Clean and maintain manual lathes, change tooling, perform routine checks, and report any mechanical issues or required repairs.
• Documentation - Record measurements, maintain job travelers or paperwork, and provide feedback on prints or tooling when design improvements may enhance manufacturability.

Core Competencies

• Technical Expertise - Strong proficiency in manual lathe operation, tooling selection, precision measurement, and machining best practices.
• Analytical Ability - Apply practical problem‑solving skills to identify machining approaches, troubleshoot issues, and adapt setups for custom or one‑off parts.
• Quality Orientation - Maintain tight tolerances, verify accuracy consistently, and uphold high standards of workmanship.
• Dependability - Follow instructions, complete work within assigned timelines, and reliably support production and maintenance machining needs.
• Continuous Learning - Expand machining knowledge, learn new techniques, and share expertise with others as needed.

Qualification Requirements

• Certificate or diploma in machining technology from a college or technical school preferred.
• Five years of experience in manual lathe machining or a combination of training and experience that demonstrates required proficiency.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and technical instructions.
• Strong applied math skills, including geometry and trigonometry used in machining calculations.
• Ability to solve practical machining problems and adapt to varied instructions or changing priorities.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and manual handling of metal materials.
• Regular use of hands for operating machine controls and precision instruments.
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds.
• Visual requirements include close vision, depth perception, and fine focus needed for precision work.

Work Environment

• Frequent exposure to moving mechanical parts, cutting fluids, and airborne particles associated with machining operations.
• Occasional exposure to electrical equipment and moderate risk conditions typical of machine shops.
• Noise levels are generally loud, requiring appropriate PPE.

Maxcess is an equal employment opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, disability, age, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.