Lathe Operator

Hourly Rate: $ 27.50 / hour

An established precision manufacturing company specializing in aerospace, defense, industrial, and commercial components is seeking a CNC Lathe Machine Operator to support machining operations in a high-quality production environment. This organization operates within a fast-paced manufacturing setting focused on precision, safety, and continuous improvement. Open to local candidates only. Located in Clifton, NJ.

Prioritized Must-Have Skills for the CNC Lathe Machine Operator:

#1. 2–5 years of CNC Lathe machine operation experience

#2. Experience machining aluminum castings or aerospace components strongly preferred

#3. Ability to read blueprints, setup sheets, and engineering drawings

#4. Experience using precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and indicators

#5. High school diploma or GED preferred; technical school or machining certification preferred

Responsibilities of the CNC Lathe Machine Operator:

• Set up and operate CNC lathe machines
• Machine aluminum investment castings and precision components
• Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, process travelers, and engineering drawings
• Load raw materials and secure fixtures properly
• Monitor machine performance and make offset adjustments
• Perform tooling changes and insert replacements
• Conduct in-process inspections and verify dimensions
• Use calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and indicators
• Identify and report nonconforming parts or machine issues
• Deburr and clean machined parts as needed
• Maintain production and inspection records
• Follow PPE, safety, and housekeeping requirements
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with CNC Programmers, Quality, and Supervisors to improve efficiency and reduce scrap

Requirements of the CNC Lathe Machine Operator:

• 2–5 years of CNC Lathe machine operation experience
• Experience machining aluminum castings or aerospace components strongly preferred
• Ability to read blueprints, setup sheets, and engineering drawings
• Experience using precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and indicators
• High school diploma or GED preferred; technical school or machining certification preferred
• Proficiency with engineering and process simulation tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or similar software
• Experience with Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Okuma, or similar CNC controls
• CNC setup experience preferred
• Basic GD&T interpretation
• Knowledge of tool offsets, feeds, and speeds, and machining math
• Experience in AS9100 or NADCAP environments preferred
• Multi-axis CNC lathe experience preferred
• SPC experience preferred
• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience preferred
• Required PPE includes safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear

Technical Skills of the CNC Lathe Machine Operator:

• CNC Lathe Operation
• Blueprint Reading
• GD&T Interpretation
• Precision Measurement Equipment
• Tool Offsets & Wear Compensation
• Feeds & Speeds Knowledge
• Basic Machining Math
• Cutting Tools & Inserts Knowledge

Benefits of the CNC Lathe Machine Operator:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Retirement

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