Lathe Operator

A stable, collaborative precision fastener manufacturer is seeking an Lathe Operator to join the team. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented machining professional with CNC lathe experience, strong blueprint-reading skills, and the ability to hold tight tolerances on long, precision components. Working under general supervision, the Aerospace Lathe Operator is responsible for setting up and operating CNC lathes to machine center studs, tie rods, and related hardware to blueprint specifications for critical aerospace and industrial applications.

• $24-$27/hr+ DOE
• Medical Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Vision Insurance

Houston, TX 77035

Temp-to-Hire

Day shift:
Monday–Friday, 6:00am–2:30pm

• Set up and operate CNC lathes to machine center studs, tie rods, and related hardware to blueprint specifications.
• Interpret engineering drawings, work orders, and process sheets, including diameters, tolerances, GD&T callouts, and thread/fillet requirements.
• Program at the machine control or edit existing programs for roughing, finishing, grooving, and chamfering operations on long shafts.
• Set up work holding for long parts, including chucks, collets, steady rests, tail stocks, and follow rests, to control deflection on parts up to 10 feet in length.
• Select and install appropriate tools, inserts, and holders for alloy steels and superalloys used in precision bolting applications.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, and depth of cut to achieve required cycle times, surface finishes, and tool life while minimizing chatter and distortion.
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and surface finish gages.
• Control outside diameter, taper, concentricity, and runout to meet tight machining requirements.
• Diagnose and correct machining issues such as chatter, poor surface finish, tool wear, tool breakage, and dimensional drift.
• Maintain accurate production and inspection documentation as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all company safety and quality procedures at all times.

• Previous CNC lathe setup and operating experience required
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and process sheets
• Familiarity with GD&T and tight-tolerance machining required
• Experience machining long shafts or similar precision components preferred
• Experience machining alloy steels and nickel-based or high-strength superalloys preferred
• Background in turbo machinery, power generation, or rotating equipment components preferred
• Experience with 2-axis and/or multi-axis CNC lathes preferred
• Familiarity with ISO, AS9100, or similar quality systems and basic SPC preferred
• Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and attention to detail
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments accurately
• Steel-toe shoes required; safety glasses provided