CNC Lathe Operator

Role Summary

The CNC Lathe Operator I is an entry-level machining professional responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC lathe equipment to produce components that meet engineering, quality, and customer requirements. This position performs basic turning operations, material preparation, cleaning, finishing, inspection, and production support activities while adhering to established safety and quality standards.
The CNC Lathe Operator I develops foundational machining skills through hands-on operation of manual and CNC equipment, blueprint interpretation, precision measurement, and manufacturing best practices. This role serves as the first step in the CNC Lathe career progression path.

What you’ll be doing:

- Set up and operate manual lathes to produce components according to engineering drawings and work instructions.

- Perform turning, facing, drilling, boring, and threading operations as required.

- Verify dimensional accuracy using appropriate inspection tools.

- Perform routine operator-level maintenance and equipment inspections.

- Maintain clean and organized work areas.

- Set up and operate ProtoTRAK CNC lathes utilizing existing programs.

- Load, verify, and execute established programs.

- Identify tooling, material, setup, and machine-related issues.

- Monitor machining operations to ensure compliance with specifications.

- Inspect completed components to verify print requirements.

- Perform operator-level preventative maintenance and operational checks.

- Set up and operate bead blasting equipment.

- Process components to achieve specified surface finish requirements.

- Verify cosmetics and finish requirements are met.

- Set up and operate dual-action sanding equipment.

- Prepare and finish parts according to work instructions and finish specifications.

- Set up and operate horizontal band saws to cut raw materials to work order dimensions.

- Verify material size and cut accuracy.

- Perform routine operator-level maintenance.

- Set up and operate vertical band saws to cut materials to required dimensions.

- Follow work instructions and safety procedures.

- Perform routine maintenance and inspections.

- Load and unload materials and components safely.

- Operate stress relief ovens according to established procedures.

- Verify cycle completion and document processing requirements.

- Load, unload, and operate ultrasonic cleaning equipment.

- Verify cleanliness standards are achieved.

Utilize basic measurement and inspection equipment including:

- Calipers

- Dial Indicators

- Depth Gauges

- Thread Gauges

- Ring Gauges

- AMP 950 Systems

- Gage Heads

- Strip Chart Recorders

Inspection Responsibilities

- Perform basic dimensional inspections.

- Document inspection results accurately.

- Identify nonconforming conditions and notify appropriate personnel.

- Verify parts meet drawing requirements prior to completion.

Demonstrate safe and effective use of:

- Metric and Standard Wrenches

- Ratchets and Sockets

- Screwdrivers

- Allen Wrenches

- Torx Drivers

- Basic assembly and adjustment tools

- Maintain tools in good working condition and utilize them in accordance with company procedures.

- Accurately clock into and out of jobs using the Visual ERP system.

- Record labor transactions properly.

- Ensure production data is entered accurately and timely.

- Follow all work orders and documentation requirements.

The CNC Lathe Operator I is responsible for following all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.

- Utilize required personal protective equipment based on assigned tasks and work areas.

- Perform daily inspections of hoists and cranes.

- Identify safe lifting points and proper lifting devices.

- Follow approved lifting procedures.

- Locate, access, and print Safety Data Sheets as required.

- Understand basic SDS information and hazard communication requirements.

- Perform daily ladder inspections.

- Follow ladder safety practices and fall protection requirements.

- Recognize basic electrical hazards.

- Report unsafe conditions appropriately.

- Follow established safety procedures when working around electrical equipment.

- Perform daily forklift inspections.

- Understand forklift load limits and operating requirements.

- Demonstrate knowledge of the forklift stability triangle.

- Understand when lockout/tagout procedures are required.

- Follow established lockout/tagout procedures and safety practices.

- Recognize potentially hazardous materials.

- Understand basic chemical safety requirements.

- Follow company hazard communication procedure

This is what you’ll need to be successful in this role

- High School Diploma or GED required.

- Technical training in machining, manufacturing, or related fields are preferred.

- Previous manufacturing, machining, mechanical, or technical experience preferred.

- Entry-level candidates with mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.

- Basic understanding of machining and manufacturing processes.

- Ability to read and follow work instructions and engineering drawings.

- Familiarity with precision measuring tools.

- Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.

- Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment.

- Basic computer skills and ability to use ERP systems.

- Strong organizational and time management skills.

- Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.