What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Lathe Operator position at Two Harbors Machine Shop, Inc / SERCO Loaders?
Job Summary:
The CNC Lathe Operator sets up and operates CNC lathes and turning centers to produce precision turned metal components used in the welded and machined structures Two Harbors Machine Shop builds for its Serco Loaders product line. Working from blueprints and work orders, the operator produces parts to tight tolerances while meeting quality, productivity, and safety standards. This role is central to supplying the shop with accurate, precision-machined components such as shafts, pins, bushings, and hydraulic components.
The CNC Lathe Operator sets up and operates CNC lathes and turning centers to produce precision turned metal components used in the welded and machined structures Two Harbors Machine Shop builds for its Serco Loaders product line. Working from blueprints and work orders, the operator produces parts to tight tolerances while meeting quality, productivity, and safety standards. This role is central to supplying the shop with accurate, precision-machined components such as shafts, pins, bushings, and hydraulic components.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Set up and operate CNC turning centers to produce precision turned parts to specification.
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders; determine machining sequence, dimensions, and required tolerances.
- Load, edit, and prove out CNC programs (G and M code), and enter or adjust tool offsets, feeds, and speeds at the control.
- Select, install, and align cutting tools, inserts, chucks, collets, and workholding or fixtures for each job.
- Set work coordinates, tool offsets, and turning parameters.
- Load and secure raw stock — bar stock, castings, or forgings.
- Monitor machining operations for tool wear, chip control, and quality, adjusting as needed to hold tolerance and cycle time.
- Verify finished parts against specifications using calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, thread gauges, and other precision instruments.
- Perform routine machine maintenance — lubrication, coolant and chip management, and cleaning — and basic troubleshooting.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, follow all safety procedures, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Document production data and report defects, tooling issues, or machine problems promptly.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Preferred Skills/Abilities:
- Prior experience operating CNC lathes or turning centers in a machining or manufacturing environment (2 years preferred).
- Familiarity with Fanuc and Okuma controls
- Familiarity with G and M code, including editing programs and making offset adjustments at the control.
- Strong shop math (including geometry and trigonometry for turning) and confident use of precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, bore and thread gauges).
- Understanding of feeds, speeds, and tool wear for various materials (steel, alloy steel, and similar).
- Mechanical aptitude and a high level of attention to detail, with the ability to hold tight tolerances.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere to quality and safety standards.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
- Dependable attendance and a strong safety mindset.
- Willingness to cross-train on other machining equipment.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand and move on a shop floor for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds; heavier stock and parts are handled with team lifts or lift assists (cranes, hoists, forklifts).
- Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, gripping, and repetitive hand and arm motion.
- Manual dexterity to load tooling, set workholding, and operate machine controls.
- Vision adequate to read measurements, gauges, and drawings and to inspect machined parts.
- Work is performed in a manufacturing environment that includes noise, dust, coolant and oil, moving equipment, and variation in temperature.
- Consistent use of required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety footwear.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Two Harbors Machine Shop / Serco Loaders is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
Two Harbors Machine Shop / Serco Loaders is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.