Lathe Machine Operators
Overview
Lathe machine operators work with specialized machines to shape and cut metal and plastic materials into precise parts and components. They operate computer-controlled lathes, read technical blueprints, and use precision measuring tools like micrometers to ensure parts meet exact specifications. This hands-on job requires technical training and attention to detail, with opportunities to work in manufacturing plants, machine shops, or aerospace companies. Many operators start with vocational training or apprenticeships and can advance to programming CNC machines or supervisory roles.
Did you know?
Most positions require completion of vocational training programs or apprenticeships, with many employers preferring candidates who have completed formal machining programs at community colleges or technical schools.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$49,456 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Systems Analysis
Key Responsibilities
- Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.
- Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
- Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
- Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces.
- Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
- Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
- Turn valve handles to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds.
- Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
- Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
- Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
- Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
- Mount attachments, such as relieving or tracing attachments, to perform operations, such as duplicating contours of templates or trimming workpieces.
- Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
- Program computer numerical control machines.
- Clean work area.
- Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
- Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
- Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools.
Career Considerations
Technical Training and Certification Requirements
Most positions require completion of vocational training programs or apprenticeships, with many employers preferring candidates who have completed formal machining programs at community colleges or technical schools.
Manufacturing Industry Outlook
Employment in this field is expected to decline slightly due to automation and overseas manufacturing, making it important to develop advanced skills in computer-controlled machinery and precision work.
Physical Demands and Safety Considerations
The role requires standing for long periods, working with heavy machinery, and strict adherence to OSHA safety protocols due to potential exposure to metal shavings, lubricants, and rotating equipment.