Manual Machinist / Manual Large Lathe Machinist – Precision Custom Manufacturing

Manpower Maine; Westbrook (ME); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Manpower Maine is seeking skilled machinists for Westbrook, ME, with 3+ years of hands-on experience setting up and operating manual lathes to produce precision components. Read blueprints, perform calculations, and verify tolerances using micrometers and calipers in a dynamic job-shop setting.

These temp-to-hire positions offer first or second shift in Westbrook, focusing on custom, low-volume parts where specifications frequently change and craftsmanship matters.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on manual machining experience with lathe setup and operation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specs.
• Proficiency with measuring tools like micrometers, calipers, gauges.
• Strong math skills to calculate dimensions, tolerances, speeds and feeds.
• Experience producing custom, low-volume or specialty parts preferred.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes and other manual machining equipment to produce precision components.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions to determine machining requirements.
• Perform layout work, mathematical calculations, and measurements to ensure parts meet specifications.
• Use precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges to verify tolerances.
• Machine custom and specialty parts with varying dimensions and specifications in a job-shop environment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while following quality and safety standards.

Skills

Manual machining

Blueprint interpretation

Precision measurement

Mathematical calculations

Quality workmanship

Reading blueprints

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauges

Job description

Pay Rate: $22–$34 per hour. Schedule: 1st Shift: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Mon–Fri) 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM – 1:00 AM (Mon–Fri). Assignment Length: Temp-to-Hire | Multiple Openings. Location: Westbrook. These positions pay $22–$34 per hour and are temp-to-hire, with openings available on both 1st and 2nd shift in Westbrook. These are highly skilled, hands‑on machining positions requiring manual machine setup, blueprint interpretation, precision measurements, and mathematical calculations. This is not a production, machine operator, or assembly role. Ideal candidates will enjoy working on a variety of custom parts and one‑off projects where product specifications frequently change and craftsmanship matters.

Typical daily duties:

• Set up and operate manual lathes and other manual machining equipment to produce precision components
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions to determine machining requirements
• Perform layout work, mathematical calculations, and measurements to ensure parts meet specifications
• Use precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges to verify tolerances
• Machine custom and specialty parts with varying dimensions and specifications in a job-shop environment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while following quality and safety standards

What we’re looking for:

• 3+ years of hands‑on manual machining experience, including manual lathe setup and operation
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications
• Proficiency using measuring and inspection tools, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges
• Strong math skills with the ability to calculate dimensions, tolerances, speeds, and feeds
• Experience producing custom, low‑volume, or specialty‑machined components preferred
• High attention to detail, strong mechanical aptitude, and commitment to quality workmanship